Avoiding Burnout in Advocacy Work

Sustainable strategies for long-term impact

Advocacy work is deeply meaningful but can be emotionally and physically demanding. Learn evidence-based strategies to maintain your well-being while creating lasting change.

🛡️

Set Boundaries

Protect your energy and time by establishing clear limits on your advocacy work.

  • Define specific work hours and stick to them
  • Learn to say no to additional commitments
  • Create physical and digital boundaries
  • Delegate tasks when possible
🤝

Build Support Networks

Connect with others who share your passion and understand your challenges.

  • Join advocacy groups and communities
  • Find a mentor in your field
  • Attend conferences and networking events
  • Create peer support circles
🎯

Focus on Impact

Concentrate your efforts on activities that create the most meaningful change.

  • Identify your core mission and values
  • Prioritize high-impact activities
  • Track and celebrate small wins
  • Avoid spreading yourself too thin
💚

Practice Self-Care

Maintain your physical and mental health to sustain long-term advocacy efforts.

  • Schedule regular breaks and vacations
  • Engage in activities you enjoy
  • Exercise regularly and eat well
  • Consider therapy or counseling
📚

Continuous Learning

Stay informed and develop new skills to work more effectively.

  • Read research and best practices
  • Attend training workshops
  • Learn from other advocates
  • Develop new advocacy skills
🔄

Manage Expectations

Understand that meaningful change takes time and setbacks are normal.

  • Set realistic short and long-term goals
  • Expect and prepare for setbacks
  • Focus on progress, not perfection
  • Celebrate incremental victories

Burnout Risk Assessment

First Name
Last Name
Email Address
Organization/RoleOptional - Tell us about your advocacy work
How often do you feel emotionally drained by your advocacy work?
Do you have difficulty disconnecting from advocacy work during personal time?
How supported do you feel by your advocacy community?
How often do you engage in self-care activities?
Do you feel your advocacy efforts are making a meaningful impact?