When the pressures of youth ministry pile up, and the amount of work appears to be much more than you can handle, you must refocus. Put simply, there are times when you really need a breather and time to chill out!
Youth Ministry Stress Survival Tips
If you are in a position where you feel that your brain has turned off, that might be a clue that you need to find something else in your life to “turn off”.
Youth Ministry work can be depleting, particularly if you park yourself in front of one problem or project for long hours at a time. If you are developing a lesson plan or weekly lesson and you are having trouble finding a way to communicate your message, it can be very easy to become discouraged.
The students of your youth ministry require a focused leader, who has a plan for class, and who is on top of their game. Not a stressed out, red eyed from staying up all night, high on caffeine from Dunkin Donuts coffee driven wacko!
Trust in God and believe in yourself, anything and everything is very doable!
Here are a few Youth Ministry stress tips.
Drink water.
Now I drink a lot of water every day, and my doctor says “Good Job, Jamie” That’s right, “Good Job” Pat on the back to me!
Apparently keeping hydrated helps your blood flow, which helps the blood get to your brain! So you can think clearly and concentrate on the task at hand.
Listen to Inspiring music.
When I was younger my mother always told me that listening to classical music helped you relax and study. I never really listened to her on that, but as I got older I found myself doing my best work while listening to peaceful music (I guess mom was right). So throw on a calming worship cd or your favorite band while you are working. I wouldn’t listen to anything that would get me pumped up while writing a bible lesson, so keep the Metallica cd for when you are working out.
Force yourself to take breaks.
Whenever I am working on something, I set a timer. I use a timer on my computer or phone, and set it for either 25 or 45 minutes. Once the alarm goes off, I force myself to get up and take a 10 minute break. This works well for me, because I challenge myself to work until the alarm goes off, and then enjoy the short 10 minute break to recharge.
Get Up and Move around
Another helpful tip is to take a quick stroll around your home or church, wherever you are working. It will get your blood moving, and a brisk walk actually calms your nerves. Take a wander outside and reflect on your work so far and think of ideas for when you return to your project.
You have to try and do this. Regularly get up from your work area, do a stretching activity, walk around your house or church, wherever you are working.
