Need tips to combat stress?
Does the thought of volunteering make your stress alert go on? Anyone who says there is no stress in volunteering has CLEARLY not been involved with school fundraising! I know so many people all over the country who have volunteered to chair an event or parent organization, only to be berated and mistreated to the point of no return. They either quit in the middle of the event or drop off the face of the Earth, never to be heard from again. Either way, that is not going to help your school move forward with raising money or encourage more people to volunteer!
So how do you fix it before it all goes wrong? When the stress gets to you, you must do a few things:
1. Take time for yourself – It’s easy to think that if we don’t do it, it won’t get done, but believe me…it does get done eventually. It’s so important to take some time to put the oxygen mask on yourself. Breathe. Take a walk. Eat something. If you don’t take the time for you, you will over extend yourself and not be as focused.
2. Ask how and where you can be most helpful – Sometimes it’s hard to be a new volunteer in a sea of “lifers.” These are the parents who have been around for a long time and know everything about everything. Before you get frustrated or angry with them, think about why they do what they do. Maybe volunteering is what makes them feel valuable. Find a way to learn as much as you can from them. We all share at least one common thing: We care about our kids and their education.
3. Stay positive – This is the key to everything, I think. It’s all about your tone and how do you deliver the message. Rather than get angry that someone has “dropped the ball,” view it as an opportunity to help them find a better place where they can fit in and help. Once this person finds their niche, he or she will be the rockstar they were meant to be.
I’m going to let you in on a little secret:
We all have the ability to be flakey or bossy or scattered at different points in our lives. Hopefully, when you find yourself in a position of power, you can find the strength to help everyone involved through their stress, and find the perfect place for them to serve. Also, don’t be afraid to say “I’m sorry.” It can go a long way when feelings get hurt.
Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” If we can move forward with kindness and respect for every person who helps, we will be a stronger community!
To Your Success,
Sarah
Sarah has been fundraising for schools since 2008. She is the author of A Mom’s Guide to School Fundraising and has consulted for several schools and clubs. She has been featured on RetailMeNot.com, Scholastic: Parent & Child and The New York Times. She thinks all kids should be able to have a well-rounded education, team uniforms, instruments and support. Don’t you?
Photo credit: etsu.edu