Anybody else burned out?

[Erin Rapacki]

Yea, I guess I've been deemed a FIRST-a-holic college student. And at the rate I'm going... I wouldn't be surprised if I were to burn out eventually (like others have before me). But it's an addiction, lately, every evening I'm posting on these forums, doing something Blitzy, or talking to people online... it just happens. I don't mind it at all, and it's an addiction because they are all friends and interesting people... but at times it gets a little tiring and repetative.

I have recognized the symptoms, there are just some days when I have to talk about Robotics at some meeting and the words don't seem to want to leave my lips, it gets too time consuming, takes away some free time and whatnot... but I have developed a few preventative measures because I never want to be "too sick of FIRST." I enjoy it too much.

What do I do?

- Remove myself from all civilization. Computers, go somewhere with no cell phone service... just GET AWAY for a few days and rejuvinate myself (usually done by backpacking and winter camping)
- During build I designate a time or day of the week to keep to myself (usually fridays) when I get housekeeping things done and blast some classical music
- I do other little things. Sometimes just ignoring AIM and sitting in a park helps keep my mind refreshed and new.

So what am I saying?

I guess variety is the best way to go, a little of both keeps you active with both. Never forget your other interests and activities. People on your team will recognize that your burned out and help you out as best as they can. But keep in mind... if you are the person who's soley responsible for a team's success, and you're worried that if you step down, that they won't have such a good machine... that you might be missing the point;

It's healthy for a team to have it's good and bad years, as long as the vast majority of people are improving themselves along the way. For a strong leader to give up a little power because they feel burned out is fine. Accept help from others, but remain involved... no team would want to loose a strong leader completely. Because although you are not in charge, you'd still be there to offer guidance, AND you'd have your own life back... and life would be roses


ByE

erin