CSMFO News asked leaders of CSMFO for their tips to navigate through the pressures and stresses of work and still find joy in life. As we close out this series, we are grateful to have received so many candid tips, including those featured in this article: Carol A. Williams, CSMFO Communication Committee Member, Senior Accountant (City of Ontario); Darrylenn Prudholme-Brockington, CGFM, CSMFO Communication Committee Member, Assistant Finance Director (Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District); Robin Bertagna, CPA, CSMFO Chapter Vice Chair Sacramento Valley, Finance/IT Director (City of Yuba City); and Stephen Parker, CSMFO Chapter Chair Orange County & Membership Committee Senior Advisor).

We hope that you continue to find inspiration from this six part series that started on August 14, 2019.

What is your strategy to recharge yourself professionaly after a tough or exhausting time?

Carol Williams
I like to recharge around water and find time to meditate, relax, write and “play” on the beach. This is a great time to release, and “let go”!

Darrylenn Prudholme-Brockington
If I am in the workplace, I will take a walk around the grounds and listen to a Podcast or calming music. This helps to keep my mental health in check because it gives me a moment to control my thoughts, my attitude, and get some fresh air.

Robin Bertagna
I prioritize my desk every morning, no two days are the same, there is always something new that comes up during the day that needs time and attention. By re-prioritizing daily, I am able to take care of the most pressing matters first. Staying on top of things helps me feel better and stay engaged and energetic. Recharging involves spending down time with family and friends, reading a book, and time in the water. I enjoy water activities whether it is swimming in a lake, or my favorite—snorkeling in the Caribbean.

Stephen Parker
Getting away from the area is always helpful. I enjoy camping with my family, or a quick weekend away. There’s something about a hotel that always recharges my wife. I love baseball, and getting to see a new stadium is always a highlight. Taking a vacation with my wife is my ideal – I always come back ready to take on what work has to give me when I’ve had a chance to be away with just her (it’s not a vacation if the kids are coming – that’s just a trip).

How do you keep balanced during those times?

Carol Williams
Pull away from it, reorganize priorities, delegate wherever feasible, maintain and positive and forward mindset. Rome was not built in a day.

Darrylenn Prudholme-Brockington
Many managers often work through break times…I often work through breaks as well. I have come to find that when I take the time for me during the workday, I can better tackle tough situations with a clear mind and a positive attitude. I can be a better leader if I am in a positive state of mind

Robin Bertagna
I try to keep in mind the bigger picture of the citizens that we serve, the employees that work for the City that count on us, and our team within the City and how my effort benefits everyone. Sometimes, when it’s crunch time it’s one project, task, meeting or phone call at time.

Stephen Parker
Prayer and Grace. Spending daily time in the Word is something I strive for, even (nay, especially) in the difficult times. The grace comes from multiple sources. Thankfully at times even from my family; my wife Koryn and kids Sydney (13), Ben (11) and Isaac (10). In a small City, department heads get into the weeds of everything, and the solution is typically putting in extra hours to make sure the project gets done. I strive to make those extra hours overnights on the weekend when I’m free of distractions like people walking into my office or receiving emails. In theory, the result is getting a little less sleep and still getting to spend the weekend days with my family. But, in my experience, a lack of sleep ensures that I’m not giving my best response to situations. That’s when an understanding family becomes instrumental.