Here's how you can prioritize personal well-being without feeling guilty.

1 Understand Guilt

Understanding guilt is the first step in overcoming it. Guilt often arises when you prioritize personal well-being because it feels like a deviation from your duty to serve the public. Recognize that this feeling is a common psychological response, but it's not necessarily rooted in reality. Taking time for yourself is essential for maintaining the stamina and clear-headedness needed to make sound decisions that affect the welfare of others.

2 Set Boundaries

Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is vital. As a public administrator, the line can often blur, leading to burnout. Determine what times of day you are strictly "off the clock" and communicate these boundaries to your colleagues and superiors. By doing so, you create a protected space for personal well-being activities, such as exercise or spending time with loved ones, which are just as important as your professional responsibilities.

3 Schedule Self-Care

Just as you schedule meetings and work tasks, you should also schedule time for self-care. Whether it's a daily walk, reading, or a hobby that brings you joy, making it a non-negotiable part of your calendar ensures that it won't be overlooked. This planned approach to personal well-being allows you to engage in self-care activities guilt-free, knowing that you've allocated time for them just as you would for any other critical task.

4 Delegate Duties

Delegating tasks is not only a key management skill but also a strategy to free up time for personal well-being. Assess your workload and identify tasks that can be handled by others. Trusting your team to take on responsibilities not only empowers them but also provides you with the opportunity to focus on high-priority work and personal rejuvenation. This balance can lead to better overall performance for your team and yourself.

5 Embrace Flexibility

Embracing flexibility in how, when, and where you work can significantly impact your well-being. Public administration can be rigid, but finding opportunities for flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or adjustable hours, can reduce stress and improve life satisfaction. By being open to non-traditional work setups, you allow yourself the freedom to fit in well-being practices that suit your lifestyle and work demands.

6 Reflect Regularly

Regular reflection on your well-being practices helps ensure they remain a priority. Take time each week to assess what's working and what's not. This reflection allows you to make adjustments and stay committed to your personal health goals. It reinforces the idea that caring for yourself is an ongoing process, integral to your effectiveness as a public servant and as an individual pursuing a fulfilling life.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?