I have a quad that I use around our little ranch to haul manure, firewood, rocks, etc. (A “quad” is, for lack of a better description, a four-wheeled motorcycle used for recreational riding off-road as well as for more practical uses; it has a hitch so I can attach a trailer.) It was not running right so I took it to a little motorcycle repair shop that was recommended to me. The shop occupied one unit in an industrial park, and was PACKED with motorcycles and all manner of off-road vehicles.
I was greeted by a very friendly fellow in his mid-forties (I’m guessing), and within about one minute I knew that he knew what he was talking about. It was very refreshing; one of my pet peeves is asking for help and discovering that I know more than the person trying to help me. And, to top it off, they act like they know EVERYTHING. Hmph.
But I digress.
A few days later I called to see when the quad would be ready and we started talking about how he juggles his schedule to avoid the heat of the day (his shop is located about one mile from the surface of the sun, or at least it seems that way in the summer). Then he said something that I want to share with you, and which is the reason for this article.
“I’m certainly not complaining; I get to work on motorcycles all day!”
Can you imagine spending all day, every day doing something that you REALLY love to do? I’m sure he has stresses in his life (who doesn’t) but he sure doesn’t have the dread of going to work. And, when something else stresses him, I’m sure he finds relief by taking an engine apart, figuring out what’s wrong, and putting it back together.
I’ve heard it for years: “Do something you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” Here was a living, breathing example. I have had the good fortune to be doing something that I love for many years, and it sure has been nice being able to “escape” by doing my work!
I’m not necessarily suggesting that you change your career, but I do think it’s possible to make it more enjoyable if it isn’t already. And if it’s more enjoyable it is, by definition, less stressful. And it has the additional effect of mitigating other stresses in your life.
Think about it: you may be surprised how you can change a few things about your work that will make a big difference. Start with those things that you dislike the most. Is it your boss, your hours, your physical environment, the commute … and what can you do to make them better?
This article is one in a series on coping strategies for patients and caregivers alike. For more thoughts on caregiving, coping strategies, reducing stress, and just plain fun subscribe to my free monthly newsletter at http://www.CaringAndCoping.com Need a speaker for an upcoming event? I have a program that will knock your socks off! Watch video clips at http://www.ThePPP.org/speaking/#handle