The concept of “self-care” can be problematic because it puts the onus on the individual instead of focusing on structural and cultural changes that teams can collectively contribute to and benefit from. Staff are understandably stressed- and burnt-out; instead of asking them to consider ways to take better care of themselves, instead consider making small changes to your workplace climate and culture. The list below highlights strategies program leadership can use to shift your workplace culture from a focus on self-care to a focus on “we care.”
Use check-in questions with staff regularly.
Create staff “shout out” boards to recognize great work.
Plan initiative implementation with a focus on how you will support staff.
Set healthy boundaries (i.e. only email during work hours).
Be intentional about connecting with colleagues.
Find opportunities for humor and laughter. (Read about the power of laughter to relieve stress here.)
Commit to a regular practice of celebrations, personally and professionally.
Reflect on workplace practices and integrate the organization’s core values.
Know the resources available for additional help in your workplace.
Seek out personal and professional development opportunities like therapy or training.
(Source: Colorado Department of Education, The Spark January 2022)
Well-Being Resources The concept of "self-care" is also commonly misunderstood to be limited to yoga and massage packages. The work of promoting one's holistic well-being can be very personal and does not necessarily require money or potentially uncomfortable experiences. These are free strategies anyone on your team can implement to increase wellbeing and better manage stress. They are listed in order of level of complexity and time commitment.
Learn about 5 Comprehensive Aspects of Self-Care. Ask yourself: How many aspects have you addressed this week? Which aspects are you the strongest in, where do you need to focus your attention? Related resources from Alliance for a Healthier Generation: Wellness Wheel for Self-Care (Eng), Wellness Wheel for Self-Care (Span)
Try practicing a Loving Kindness Meditation when you're stressed out. It only takes 15-minutes. This form of meditation is an evidence-based strategy that will reduce stress and improve the work environment. Try this Loving Kindness script and recorded guide from Greater Good in Action.
Try practicing a daily Gratitude Meditation. It only take 10-minutes.This form of meditation helps you feel grateful for all of the gifts in your life. Try this Gratitude Meditation script and recorded guide from Greater Good in Action.