Dear EFAP
Thank you to those who have written to “dear efap” for input on your dilemmas. As you are aware, we read every inquiry that comes in but we are only able to print a small selection of responses. Our “pithy” answers are modeled after the lighter hearted Dear Abby style and are grounded in common sense. If your issues require a more personalized level of support please call EFAP (1-800-505-4929) and we can confidentially book you a counselling appointment with a senior level therapist.
We welcome all inquiries – please submit these to dear.efap@efap.ca. All printed responses use the anonymous descriptor that you sign your inquiry with and do not reveal any identifying information. Our goal is to support you through insight and common sense.
Below is our response to the next selection – enjoy!
I’m a leader here at VCH and I’m finally going on holidays. I’m heading to cottage country, big lakes and northern pike and even the odd muskellunge of “Husky the Muskie” fame. There I plan to do just about nothing or, at the very least, only what I “want” to do versus what I “have” to do – if you catch my fresh water drift. But, until I can get to the dock with a beverage in my hand and a sunset in my view, I’m freaking out as I have so much to do to get ready. I’m being a busy little beaver and delegating and organizing and making a list and checking it twice in true Mrs. Claus fashion, but it’s exhausting – necessary but exhausting. As excited as I am to go, the one damper is to know that when I get back there will be so much e-mail to catch up on that I’ll be so swamped, it I will feel like I never got away. So, what can I do?
– Overwhelmed by the Vacation
Dear Overwhelmed by the Vacation,
Why is it we plan our exit into our vacation so very carefully, but seldom do we take the time in preparing for our re-entry after our time away? And so, “Mrs. Claus,” as you are organizing and delegating and taking care of all things necessary before you go away, why not set the same plan for when your return from the land of the silver birch? Consider blocking off a few days for transition and re -entry time. In essence schedule your calendar such that you are not officially back for business until 2 or even 3 days later. This will allow you time to read your e-mail and take care of things that are urgent. This sounds like a much nicer and healthier option than returning to a day that is overbooked, leaving you overstressed. Planning to be inundated and making space to manage it would allow you to feel less overwhelmed and more on top of things. Have a great vacation in, if I am guessing correctly, Kenora? (It was “Husky the Muskie” that gave it away – enjoy!)
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The advice offered in this column is meant to be used as general guidance based on the facts provided. The opinions or views expressed should not be relied on as treatment or counselling services. If you do find yourself in need of counselling or support, please contact EFAP toll free at 1-800-505-4929 or 604-872-4929, your family doctor, or another appropriately trained and qualified specialist.