Striking and Self-Care

Striking is stressful. We have been at this for a while now, many of you with little to no break. Whether you are picketing, driving vans, writing songs and letters, bringing music to the lines, making videos, working at HQ, talking to the media, bargaining, organizing meetings, working towards equity and accessibility, and/or just trying to keep up with the strike etc., the financial, physical and emotional impact of this strike is being felt by all members of CUPE 3903.

The efforts by all members are amazing and serve to ensure that we will get the best contract possible from the employer. Make sure, however, you are not neglecting yourself. Self-care during a strike situation is often put on the back burner. If you have 5 minutes take this self care assessment. Burnout is a HUGE factor in a long strike.

A Self Care Assessment

Do you drink six glasses of water a day?
Do you eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables every day?
Do you make time just for you?
Do you listen to your body?
Do you make time for exercise? (No walking the picket line does not count!!)
Do you release your emotions in a positive way?
Can you remember the last time you laughed until you cried?
Do you have beauty in your home or office?
Do you take time to enjoy nature?
Do you see a dentist twice a year?
Are you regularly touched and hugged?
Do you get 6-8 hours of sleep every night?
Do you get enough sunlight?
Do you get regular sexual fun?
Do you nurture your friendships?
Can you forgive yourself when you make a mistake?
Can you ask for help when you need it?
Do you visit your doctor regularly for a complete physical?
Have you thought about your spiritual needs?
Do you accept yourself for who you are?

Obviously no one can do ALL of these things ALL the time, but if you feel you are neglecting yourself, your own needs, take some time for you. To ensure you can maintain a healthy involvement in this movement think about self-care. You can only do so much. Recognize your limits and the respect the limits of others.

This quiz has been adapted from The Empowerment Project- Fredericton Sexual Assault Crisis Centre.