Self-Preservation Plan

Blaze Kissell
 What are your values and/or requirements
for you to thrive?
● I require an environment which is accepting and conducive to allowing my partner
and ESA to live with me and not feel unwelcome or "special"
● I value being in an environment with people who support and share my identities,
while also challenging me and the systems around us to be more accessible and
knowledgeable regarding diverse perspectives and experiences
● I thrive the most in areas with sunshine and warmth, therefore I will cherish
environmental health by being outside when needed
● I value being able to find community within and outside of the workplace which not
only shares my identities and values, but also hobbies and desire for quality time
How do you plan to invest in yourself outside
of work duties, responsibilities, and culture?
● I will continue to engage in my personal interests and hobbies (painting,
hiking, gaming) on the weekends and after "working hours"
● When I have time-off I will use that time to leave the area with my partner,
allowing us to truly take time away. This will help in recharging and
literally distance us from our work and professional responsibilities
● I will develop an effective routine for maintaining the upkeep and
cleanliness of my living space to promote better mental health
● I will also spend more free-time outside and in the sun when possible
Who is your support and who can you trust to
raise awareness when you are reaching
burnout or in need of additional self-care?
● My partner is one of my biggest support systems for addressing self-care
needs and helping me avoid burnout. He reminds me to put my work down
and away when I have time-off or during meals
● Another person I trust to help raise my awareness is my friend and mentor,
Hannah Thompson. By also being in Higher Education, Hannah is able to
empathize with the responsibilities and demands of working in higher
education, but also provide advice and support from personal experiences
What were key takeaways from your interview?

● Being able to find community outside of working professional relationships

is important when moving to a new area
● Maintaining hobbies and passions when working full-time needs to be an
intentional act and routine
● Find an institution and department which will let you engage in passion
projects/areas while working - to stay true to your own values.
● Don't take for granted professional development opportunities and funding
as a full-time employee, nor the benefits of being on a college campus
How will these tips be utilized in your practice?

● I intend to seek out groups who share similar identities and hobbies (a Queer
Board Gaming group, or Queer Foodies group) in a new area
● I intend to use professional development funds to attend Creating Change
and connect with other LGBTQIA+ Professionals in Higher Education
● I intend to dedicate specific weeks/weekends away to spend quality time with
my partner and friends when possible and engage in refreshing activities
● I intend to seek out and create opportunities for growth and mindfulness
which are possible because of my work within Higher Education