Self-care is always important, but probably never more than now. The Creator made you for this role, and He wants you to thrive in it. You’re only human—revel in that and establish a self-care pattern in your life today. If you’re a list person, you can download a self-care routine here and make it your own.
Read the Word for you. You spend hours each week in God’s Word, preparing, teaching and preaching. Take time to read a section that’s not part of your preparation, and savor God’s message for you. Know that His Spirit is working and will nurture you.
Sabbath rest. You need rest. Just stop. Give your mind time to slow down and think about things unrelated to your day-to-day ministry. Really, really rest. You’ll be so much more ready for what comes your way.
Heathy diet. You are what you eat when it comes to energy and how you feel. Make time to eat well and nourish your body. It’s a gift from God!
Exercise and stay hydrated. We could maybe assume that you know this, but it bears including. Moderate exercise will help you feel better even while it gives you time to process and plan. Keeping hydrated means better energy, fewer headaches, and a lot more!
CTA Advantage Mentoring Moments. We’re here to help! Mentoring Moments in our CTA Advantage digital content aim to give you 10- to 20-minute conversations with experts around different areas of ministry. You’ll hear ideas that have actually worked for others and be inspired for your own ministry! CTA Advantage is a subscription service. You can try it free for 30 days! You’ll need to enter your credit card when you sign up, but it won’t be charged for 30 days and if you don’t see the value in it, you can cancel before the 30 days are over. The subscription costs $99 per year (see below for a special Pastor Appreciation gift offer for you) and brings you lots of . . . advantages! Click here for more.
Nature. Look for opportunities to get outdoors. It’s good for you! Consider walking meetings if you have a one-on-one update. Take a lunchtime stroll around the block. Gather your family for a brief after-dinner walk or a little weekend time in a local park. Absorb the beauty God created in nature; really notice it. The joy that comes from that simple investment of time will energize you and get your creativity activated!
Talking to Other Pastors. Be careful with this one. We’re talking about self-care so for this purpose, don’t choose someone that may end up weighing you down with concerns. Look for a pastor that can challenge you, dream with you, energize you. Think beyond your church or denomination—reach out for new and different ideas. Remember that you’ll be bringing the same to that person. It’s a win-win situation.
Whether you choose one or a few or all of these ideas, know that all of us at CTA join your congregation and community in thanking you for your dedication and for the way you share Jesus’ love with those in your care. We want you to thrive! Take care of yourself! May God bless you richly along the way.