WWW.AGRM.ORG MAY/JUNE 2018 59 O ne of the first things we learn as children in the kitchen is to be careful not to get burned. In the professional world, it’s the same. Our first hours of training are devoted to safety around hot equipment. We are trained to use caution in the kitchen to avoid getting burned, but how many training hours are devoted to avoiding burnout? Burnout is the physical and emotional toll caused by occu- pational stress. Burnout is a risk in any professional kitchen, but it’s even more of a risk in a mis- sion kitchen. With the pressure of hungry guests, tiny budgets, an unskilled work force, and unpredictable food sourcing, how can we avoid burnout? Do Not Grow Weary “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). Easier said than done, right? When facing long, difficult days it’s easy to want to give up. Having a higher purpose behind your tasks will keep you motivated through the rough patches. Try to share with your staff testimonies of people they have helped. Your guests may not always express it, but you make positive impact every day when you take time to welcome those who are lonely and hungry. Keep It Simple Most times the best food is simple, with a few quality ingre- dients measured out carefully and prepared with love. It’s important to stick to the recipe and resist the urge to add to it. This is also a good work habit— start off with a clear goal, plan out the steps, and take the time to do the job right. Much like a recipe, it’s important not to add superfluous tasks to your work load. I have met people who are always busy but accomplish very little. Try to keep focused, clear-minded, and on task. Keep It Sweet The right words can keep any situation calm. Proverbs says, “Gracious words are a honey- comb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Toxic, negative, or critical language can be the most destructive force in any workplace, especially in a busy kitchen. People don’t even realize how their causal complaining can affect people around them. So “keep it sweet”—avoid complaining, sarcasm, and gossip. One of the most effective things to do is to show gratitude. Saying thank you can relieve stress and show others they are valued. Secret Ingredient: With God all things are possible! Learn to receive His peace in any situation. With a little practice you could go from burnout to fired up! Ĩ FULL PLATE Tyler Peoples Feeling the Burn Mission kitchens can take job burnout to a whole new level Tyler is catering manager for Springs Rescue Mission. During his 10 years in the food services industry, he has been recognized as the Best Chef in Colorado Springs by the Colorado Springs Restaurant Association, and was awarded Chef of the Year in 2014 by the American Culinary Federation. Contact him at tylerp@springsrescue mission.org.