The Grand County Library District has strategies for maintaining a work-life balance. Smart Tips: Managing Stress” is “the ultimate micro-learning series” by GALE Presents: Udemy, an online learning platform that is one of many online resources available through the library district.
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In the busy stacks, where the scent of books mingles with the quiet hum of knowledge, there exists a group of unsung heroes — library workers. Much like other service professionals, we are accommodating and friendly, nice even. But beneath the surface, we are struggling to balance work and life with the precision of a tightrope walker and the humor of a stand-up comedian.
Imagine this: It’s a typical day at the library. The clock strikes 10 a.m. and the doors swing open to a flood of eager patrons. Mrs. Jenkins is back, again, determined to find that one obscure book on Victorian knitting patterns. Meanwhile, a group of teenagers is trying to turn the fireplace area into their personal social club. And let’s not forget toddler storytime, where chaos reigns supreme, and the only thing louder than the children is the sound of musical instruments being played from our Library of Things.
For librarians, this is just another day at the office. But how do we manage to keep our sanity intact? The answer lies in the magical concept of work-life balance.
A great book for strategy #5: “The Backyard Bird Chronicles” by Amy Tan shows us how the world fascinates her, especially the birds. Grand County Library District/Courtesy image
There are 8,760 hours in a year. If you are a full-time professional, you spend almost a quarter of your year at work. “Did you know someone once asked me for a book on how to build a time machine?” one librarian says. To which another replies, “I wish, I am so exhausted I can’t even think straight. I’d love to go back and say no to some things.”
Balancing work and life isn’t just about having fun, it’s also about taking time to recharge. We are people first, mothers, sons, friends and confidants. Service workers second. To combat the giving nature of our work, we balance those demands with some strategies below:
1. Recognize the signs: Self-assess to gauge your emotional and mental state for fatigue, lack of concentration and reduced empathy.
2. Set boundaries: Stick to a consistent work schedule and avoid taking work home; dedicate specific time for personal activities and prioritize them.
3. Prioritize self-care: Engage in regular physical activity and ensure a balanced diet and adequate rest; spend quality time with those you care about to nurture your support system.
4. Seek support: Whether it’s to a professional or your peers, speak to others who can share your experiences and offer guidance.
5. Develop coping strategies: Deep breathing, journaling, walking in nature and playing music can all calm nerves when feeling overwhelmed.
In the end, the key to work-life balance is simple — find joy in the little things. Whether it’s a perfectly organized bookshelf, a heartfelt thank you from a neighbor for picking up their mail or a hilarious story shared with colleagues, these moments make all the difference so you can continue to care for others joyfully.
Hoopla Digital’s e-book “10 Guided Mediation Sessions for Self-Compassion and Self-Love” by Emma Walsh, is new this year. Each session is only nine to 15 minutes, each with an important message.Grand County Library District/Courtesy photo
