Refresh, Heal, Regain Strength
In the face of the daunting challenges posed by climate change, a group of influential environmental justice leaders have adopted strategies to manage burnout and recharge. These leaders, including Yessenia Funes, Mustafa Santiago Ali, Dallas Goldtooth, Elizabeth Yeampierre, and Tamara Toles O'Laughlin, prioritise community and social support, proactive self-care, and problem-focused coping strategies.
Yessenia Funes, the climate editor of Atmos, encourages readers to take time to recharge. Her counterparts, such as Tamara Toles O'Laughlin, North America Director of 350.org, ensure rest is planned from the start of any campaign, mobilization, or training to prevent burnout.
These leaders understand the importance of collective action and interdependence to counteract the emotional toll of climate justice work. Mustafa Santiago Ali, Vice President of Environmental Justice at the National Wildlife Federation, runs five days a week and meditates when needed. Dallas Goldtooth, Keep It in the Ground Campaign Organizer at the Indigenous Environmental Network, disconnects from social media for at least two hours every day.
Elizabeth Yeampierre, Executive Director of UPROSE, prioritises taking care of her community and loved ones as a means of self-care. She finds daily time for checking in with others, telling stories, joking, and sharing food.
The newsletter titled "The Frontline", published by Yessenia Funes, focuses on the next steps following the elections this week.
Research in occupational psychology and nonprofit leadership studies highlights these leaders' approaches as best practices for reducing burnout in demanding social justice and nonprofit sectors. While no specific personal routines from these individuals were detailed, their leadership style aligns with broader research on investing in community, self-care, transparent support structures, and flexible, adaptive wellbeing strategies.
These leaders' commitment to self-care and community support serves as a powerful example for those working in the climate justice field. By prioritising their wellbeing and fostering a culture of mutual support, they are creating a more resilient and effective movement for change.
- Yessenia Funes, the climate editor of Atmos, suggests readers take time to recharge, as demonstrated by her own routine of planned rest during campaigns and mobilizations.
- Tamara Toles O'Laughlin, North America Director of 350.org, incorporates proactive self-care strategies into her leadership style by ensuring rest is scheduled from the beginning of any campaign.
- Mustafa Santiago Ali, Vice President of Environmental Justice at the National Wildlife Federation, runs daily and practices meditation to manage his emotional well-being while immersed in climate justice work.
- Dallas Goldtooth, Keep It in the Ground Campaign Organizer at the Indigenous Environmental Network, takes a break from social media for at least two hours each day as part of his personal self-care routine.
