Sarvika Tuli joined the Pune Learns Curriculum Development Team recently, and has been volunteering for various causes for over 2 years now. She is extremely passionate about any cause related to education, and works in the CSR field. With experience in the various aspects of volunteer work, she has developed a deep understanding of the dedication that goes into being a volunteer, and hopes that this article will help all the volunteers out there learn a bit about how to take care of themselves. Read on for some great tips!
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” – Elizabeth Andrew
And yet, they give it their all, just to ensure that whoever is in need gets the required help. They try in their own little ways to ensure that every day, the world is a little better than what it was yesterday.
Volunteering is not something new but with the pandemic hitting us last year, we saw people from all walks of life come together to help. We saw individuals who volunteered to distribute food, helped people who were stuck get home safely, cooked food for patients, offered services such as free medical/mental health consultations, and even people who painstakingly sewed individual masks for people who couldn’t afford to buy their own. Along with our frontline heroes, it was the volunteers that tried to make sure that no one was left behind.
Folks who choose to volunteer are usually those who wish to be a part of the solution and not the problem. However, stepping up to challenges is not easy. Helping out in the times of need can often take a physical, mental or emotional toll on a volunteer. Therefore, while it is commendable that volunteers selflessly dedicate themselves to a cause, it is extremely important that they take care of themselves.
Here are some ways in which the Pune Learns team practices self-care. These have really helped us and we hope they will help you too!
- Staying hydrated
This one isn’t as applicable in the virtual world we’re currently in, but in case the volunteer work you do is physical in nature, it is essential to drink enough water to stay hydrated.
- Getting a good night’s sleep
All types of volunteer work take energy and therefore it is important that you are well rested.
- Learning to say no
No is a hard word to hear and an even harder word to stay. While you might want to give your all, sometimes it can get too much. It is okay to say no when things get too much to take.
- Taking time off when sick
We are all often so dedicated to our cause, that we might wish to perform even when we aren’t feeling well. However, it’s important to understand that our performance of volunteer duties is dependent on our own health, and we’d be unable to do our best if we didn’t take care of ourselves first.
- Being kind to yourself
As volunteers, there is only so much that we can do. Mistakes happen and most things are not in control. Therefore, it is important that we understand our limits and are kind to ourselves.
- Validating emotions
While volunteering, you may face situations that make you feel uneasy or scared. During such moments, It is important to remember that all feelings are valid, no matter what the feeling is.
- Reaching out
Talking to friends/family/other volunteers or even reaching out to professionals if needed really helps in coping with difficult situations.
- Taking breaks
Volunteering is tough and even superheroes need breaks. Taking breaks is a way to recuperate before getting back to volunteering duties.
Self-care is essential no matter what one does. It becomes more necessary for volunteers as they put in a lot of time and effort without expecting anything back. If you are a volunteer reading this, take care of yourself, starting today. We hope that you show yourself the same amount of love and care that you would show the cause you love and serve.
– By Sarvika Tuli