So normally I would say quitting is not a good thing. Recently, though, I chose to quit something - the PTO Board at my kids’ school. I had joined last Spring. I was excited to be more involved in my kids’ elementary school. Meetings were once a month and then any additional activities were voluntary. It was great. But then life became more complicated.
You see, I have been working my full-time job and my part-time job for over a year. I also have been co-leader of my oldest daughters Girl Scout troop for two years. In addition, I volunteer at PSR (church school) every four to six weeks. My husband was nervous when I joined the Board, but supportive. The first six months went pretty well. It was busy but doable. Then in the New Year, a very close relative was diagnosed with cancer. It has, of course, added stress all around. I talked it over with my husband and thought about it for a few weeks and decided something had to go. PTO Board seemed like the best answer as it would not directly affect as many other people but still ease my plate a little.
I felt (and maybe still feel a little) guilty but then remembered, I can’t help others if I’m not taking care of myself. On an airplane, the flight attendant reminds everyone that if air masks come down, make sure to put yours on before helping another. You do no one any good if you pass out while trying to help. I need to listen to that advice too. I’m putting my air mask on.
