Looking for ways to beat burnout in youth ministry? If so, you’re not alone. Plenty of factors contribute to youth workers burning out. And I’m sure you’ve heard more than a few horror stories. But the best work a youth worker can do is long-term youth work. So stick with ministry!
In the meantime, use these 27 habits to beat burnout. Then continue to thrive in your much-needed work with teens and young adults.
27 Ways to Beat Burnout
- Surround yourself with good people who love you and don’t report to you.
2. Make sure you’re a worshiping part of the community. Take regular Sundays off from commitments.
3. Have a separate line-manager, pastor and mentor.
4. Take your days off. Always. No exceptions.
5. Plan your holidays in advance.
7. Talk to God regularly like He’s an old friend who desperately wants the best for you. (Because He is—and He does!)
8. Have hobbies. Commit to them as a valuable part of your life, not simply as extras “when there’s time.”
9. Give. Generously and a bit ridiculously. Don’t wait to give.
10. Love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. Commit to growing that above all else.
11. Grow in love for the Word—as a relationship with your Dad in heaven, not as a ministry-prep thing.
12. Married? Make intentional space for intimacy. Explore, make it fun!
13. Kids? Try to be more crazy than them when you play. Really play with them.
14. Dance when no one’s around.
