Hospitality is an entire industry focused on serving others. During the holiday season this focus can become all-consuming and leave you feeling burnt out -- mentally and/or physically. Here are some ways industry pros maintain the hustle and pay special attention to their own needs.
1
"I've been on the verge of being burnt out often. I've tried yoga and meditation. I even bought books that told you how to prevent burnout. What has actually helped me was ensuring I kept time for myself apart from work. It sounds simple, but it is also the hardest thing to do. Separating work from my personal life and being able to say “No” when I have to, has been helpful. I also think having a hobby or hobbies that can keep your thoughts away from work helps."
- Kelly Nam, Executive Pastry Chef & Partner at Joomak Banjum
2
"Proper rest along with short and long term goal setting have helped me avoid burnout."
- Dominick Lee, Executive Chef of Alligator Pear
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"Flexibility... allows me to adapt to changing circumstances and meet the needs of my employer. In today's fast-paced and constantly changing work environment, as employees, we need to be able to adjust our work style, hours, and location to accommodate changing priorities and unexpected situations. It also allows me to manage my personal and professional commitments effectively, reducing stress and burnout."
- Kutina Ruhumbika, Chief People Officer at Levain Bakery
4
"I spend time with my family. We have young children and I have a place in the country. I also enjoy good wine and tasting things, but try to be very careful about what I put into my body."
- Daniel Boulud, Chef / Owner of The Dinex Group
5
"I like to spend time with my loved ones and do the hobbies that bring happiness to my life. It’s important to know how to de-stress to reduce the chance of burning out. I have been burned out before because I was focused too much on the negativity. I now realize that I need to focus more on what I love and what is important in my life. A couple hobbies that I love for de-stressing are baking and drawing."
- Heeji Kim, General Manager at Sắp Sửa
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"People often look outside of work for ways to not burn out, I try to create the kind of moments inside the restaurants that energize me instead of the ones that deplete me — it’s the entire thesis of my book, “Unreasonable Hospitality.” If you create a culture where you and your team have the permission and resources to go above and beyond in fun, creative and unreasonable ways for one another and the people who you serve, that is one of the most energizing things you can do."
- Will Guidara, Author, Founder of thank you and Co-Founder of The Welcome Conference
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"I take vacations. Realize that when everything goes pear shaped, tomorrow is a new day. And I drink a lot of good quality water!"
- Ian Winslade, Chef / Partner at Mission Hospitality Group
