Opposite World

What do you do when you’re not at work?

There’s a whole lot of interesting research about the protective factor that comes with having an ‘Opposite World’ to your world of work. People who have an activity or hobby that puts them into a state that is the direct opposite of the mindset they have at work are often recharged and don’t turn to burn out in the same way others might.

Opposite Worlds tend to fall into six key domains:

• Physical exercise – maybe you’re a surgeon who runs marathons
• Artistic – you could be a policy writer who paints landscapes
• Nature – you might be a stay at home parent who does deep-water swimming
• Animals – perhaps you are a communications specialist who rides horses
• Volunteering – maybe you’re a medical illustrator who plays music for elderly people
• Home tasks – you could be a lawyer who bakes

Burnout is a huge challenge at the moment, in so many fields. There are heaps of things organisations can and should do, to create conditions that support rather than diminish their staff. It is also a great idea to consider your own agency, to highlight individual opportunities to promote a positive and sustainable experience at work.

What could your own Opposite World look like?

Tags: career-coaching, life-coaching, Melbourne