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by Sandy Cameron
1. Eat nutritious meals
Your mom was right, you need to eat your vegetables to stay healthy. Eating
well-balanced meals is especially important at camp because of your high
activity level and because you probably won't be getting enough sleep
(see tip #2). Try to avoid junk
foods and eat fruits, vegetables, or cheese for snacks. You'll also set
a good example for your campers (see
tip #8)!
2. Get enough sleep
You are expected to give 100 percent to your campers when you are on duty.
No one can do that if they aren't properly rested. Resist the temptation
to say up late night after night. Your body needs rest to replenish and
be ready for the next day.
3. Exercise
There's nothing better for beating stress than exercise. Go for a run;
walk or ride a bike instead of driving; join in activities. Exercise helps
clear your head, promotes good health, and helps you feel rejuvenated
and ready to go.
4. Make some time for yourself
As difficult as it might be, find some time when you can do something
you enjoy that isn't related camp. Write in a journal; draw; spend your
day off reconnecting with your needs and values.
5. Keep a good sense of humor
It's true that laughter sometimes is the best medicine. It can bring people
together and diffuse some tense situation. Camp should be fun. Relax and
don't take yourself too seriously.
6. Find a confidant
A stressful day is more bearable when you can share your experiences with
someone else. Find someone who will listen to and empathize with your
frustrations and successes. Vent negative emotions in a way that is productive
and nondestructive.
7. Resolve problems quickly
Don't let conflicts build. Camp is a close-knit community and it's important
that everyone be able to work effectively together. Be patient and tolerant
of others.
8. Lead by example
Campers notice everything you do and don't do. Set a good example and
your campers will follow your lead. Remember, you are the adult.
9. Expect the unexpected
No one can control all the variables in life, so be flexible and roll
with the punches. It will rain, campers will get sick, and program activities
will change. The difference between being a good counselor and being a
great counselor is being able to improvise, maintain a positive attitude,
and keep going.
10. Be firm and consistent
Campers quickly learn just how far they can push you. From the start,
make sure to enforce all rules fairly and consistently. Once expectations
have been established, you'll find you won't need to discipline campers
as much because they will know what they can and cannot do.
Related Topic
Conquering Burnout
Originally published in the 2000 May/June issue
of Camping Magazine. |
