Self-Care in a Volatile World

“The brave person is not the one who does not feel afraid but the one who conquers that fear.”

--Nelson Mandela (adapted)

In interactions with a number of clergy leaders in the last two months, I have encountered a wide variety of emotions. Some are challenged by this opportunity to try new ways to connect with parishioners, lead in worship, and care for those in need even if it means they are actually working harder and putting in more hours. Others are struggling to keep up with the changes and doing the best they can under the circumstances. No one I have encountered has given up, but they have felt the stress of so many unprecedented changes. Added to this, many now face the stress of working with their congregations to identify a way forward.

I believe that we are going to see a lot of burnout, compassion fatigue, and anxiety among clergy in coming months. If I were a prophet, I would predict that a year or 18 months from now we will see many gifted people decide that ministry is no longer for them--taking early retirement or seeking another profession.

Those who will stick it out are ministers who already have a support system in place. They know their strengths and short-comings, so they have developed and pursue strategies that will see them through these anxiety-producing times. They take care of themselves spiritually, emotionally, relationally, and physically. They consult on a regular basis with mentors, coaches, and therapists. They have a group of colleagues with whom they can be transparent.

In Just Enough Anxiety, Robert Rosen said:

Anxiety is a fact of life. How you use it makes all the difference. If you let it overwhelm you, it will turn to panic. If you deny or run from it, you will become complacent. But if you use anxiety in a positive way, you will turn it into a powerful force in your life.

In Rosen’s perspective, anxiety helps us concentrate, learn, relate to people, think more creatively, and deliver better results. Dealing with anxiety, however, requires a great deal of intentionality and self-insight. We need to acknowledge and address our needs and build the systems that will support us in the midst of this anxious time. Anxiety need not destroy or immobilize us; rather, it can motivate us to action.

My prayer is that clergy friends who do not have the support system they need to deal with these volatile times will reach out. It is not too late.

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