What do you do if you're a library professional seeking professional growth without burning out?

I try to take any opportunity to do professional development. I definitely try to stick with ones that interest me or are things that I think would help (there's nothing worse than sitting through a 2-hour seminar on something you can't apply to your life). I seek them out through local programs that advertise and promote them. The hardest part is the timing. I try to find them well in advance so I can get all of the other tasks off the table in order to focus on the task at hand. I find, for me, I do much better in physical professional development meetings as opposed to online ones. Being physically there allows me to focus on that and not the other hundreds of things to do around the office and allows for less distractions.

Honestly, I think the best networking is done when you're not trying too hard to network. People want to get to know the real you and when you're too formal, it can be draining for you and the other person as well. I try to do some networking when I do professional development. I like to start by asking how they liked the seminar we just left and for any ideas they may have come up with. The we move into natural conversation from there. It's killing 2 birds with one stone: I get to further absorb what I just learned and network at the same time.

When I leave work, I try to make sure I LEAVE work. I used to have my work email on my phone so I could constantly check it and reply. I now no longer have it on my phone because I want to be able to enjoy my life outside of work without the pressure to be active all the time. When i do my hobbies, I try to unplug if I can by going for a hike or camping.

Best Process to grow is to start delegating and create future leaders in the team. It also gives you time to learn something new and grow

Self-care is crucial in today's fast-paced world, especially to manage professional growth without burning out. Here's my method: 1. Prioritize Self-Care: Understand learning strengths and weaknesses to tailor well-being methods. Align career goals with interests to protect health. 2. Delegate Tasks Wisely: Reallocate tasks, use technology for efficiency, adjust deadlines, or outsource to reduce stress. 3. Reflect Regularly: Reflect on experiences and achievements to foster self-awareness, aiding growth and preventing burnout. I believe these strategies serve as foundational pillars for stress management and ensuring long-term success, both professionally and personally.

I think it's important to take stock of your career up to this point. You have to remind yourself why you chose this profession. Think about what truly drives and motivates you to do more, and knowing that, look at the path you've taken to this point. If you find you've gone too far afield, then seek out opportunities that can reignite your passion and interest. Do things that help you grow, but that also bring you some sense of joy and gratitude. Burnout is less likely if the opportunities you choose are fulfilling. Now, on the other hand, if you're satisfied up to this point, I would suggest trying something outside of your comfort zone. Have a sense of adventure. Do something that makes you a little nervous.