Five ways to avoid burnout while you change the world

Jessa Messina says she noticed it during last year’s election. Many of her friends were excited about getting more involved in the political process, not realizing that it was leaving them completely exhausted.

The founder of Yojo, which “brings wellness to the workplace through yoga and meditation,” says that no matter what your political persuasion is, when you’re passionate about a cause it’s easy to burn out if you don’t pace yourself.

“It’s like an airplane, where you have to put the mask on yourself first,” Messina says. “If you want to change the world, first you have to take care of yourself.”

Messina was inspired to create a two-weekend spring training course where she’ll “give people the tools to balance social activism and self care.” It will be held April 20 to 23 and May 4 to 7.

“We’ll focus on simple and effective daily practices that will keep you going long after the training has ended,” Messina says.

Not sure if it’s for you? On March 16, Messina will host a free meditation event at WeWork 85 Broad St . She says it’s a great chance to meet her and hear more about the courses.

And for everyone else, Messina has some tips for getting through the next four years.

“We’re in this for the marathon,” she says. “We’ve got to pace ourselves.”

1. Find time to recharge. “Strength comes from getting grounded,” she says. “And getting grounded or centered comes from stillness and silence. Meditate, take a bath, or just put your phone on airplane mode for 30 minutes.”

2. Be strategic about where you get news. “It’s all too easy to mindlessly scroll down social media and be left with an information hangover,” she says. “Be selective about what sources you are using to be informed, and when and how often you are turning to them. If it helps, have a routine for when you are taking in news and try not to break it too often.”

3. Give what you have. “There are so many opportunities to give right now,” she says. “You can volunteer, go to protests, call senators, give money, or give time in other ways. Everyone is abundant in something. Giving this way keeps your own tank full and prevents you from feeling drained.”

4. Find a sense of joy. “Your joy makes the world a better place,” she says. “So dance or watch SNL or go for a run or hug someone.”

5. Listen. “One of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and the people around you is to listen,” Messina adds. “Listen to people with different lives and different beliefs. Offer your ears and watch what happens.”

Interested in workspace? Get in touch.