Step 1. Admit you are burnt out.
This sounds easy, but it’s the hardest step. Our egos, as well as our incomes, are invested in feeling good about our work. It’s not easy to admit that you’re in a mess.
Step 2. Take a break from your work.
Get sun, fresh air, go for a walk or take a boat/bike/horse ride. Spend some time in nature.
Step 3. Spend time alone.
Do something relaxing and meditative. Light a tea light candle with aromatherapy and take a long, hot bath.
Step 4. Get in touch with your feelings and express them.
Holding in your emotions can create burnout.
Step 5. Think about professional therapy.
It can really put things in perspective and help you to be more conscious of who you really are and what’s right for you. Use a non-judgemental, positive, worker-friendly therapist. Be honest with yourself.
Step 6. Start a support group with other sex workers.
The best cure is to share your experiences with your peers, who may have had similar experiences. It’s very empowering.
Step 7. Take care of your body.
Try to eat well and get regular exercise. A good massage can do wonders for a worn-out worker or stripper!
Step 8. Get your mind off sex work.
Go to a movie, take a class, hang out with children. Make a list of the ten activities that make you most happy, and then do some of them.
Step 9. Be willing to make less money.
Don’t let the client determine the service. Let the client know what YOU offer. Practise saying “NO”. Clean out your little black book. Decide what kinds of people YOU want to work with, and be willing to let those who don’t fit the bill or take a hike.
Step 10. Create other sources of income.
Look into other business or career options. Go to uni or tech or start a sideline doing something creative. When you need a break from sex work, you’ll have an alternative source of income.
Step 11. Take a break from sex.
Hey, you don’t have to be sexy all the time! Give yourself a period of not having sex (with anyone). Dress down. Don’t wear makeup. This can help recharge your batteries.
Step 12. If your burnout is chronic, get out of the industry.
Perhaps you aren’t cut out for sex work, it’s not fulfilling your needs or it’s just time for a change. You may need to leave the industry gradually, or simply go “cold turkey”. If there’s a will there’s a way.
Take good care of your precious self, you’re worth it!!
This flyer is adapted from an article by Dr. Annie Sprinkle.