- Do a self-care task that takes less than 60 seconds (Drink some water, take 3 deep breaths, stand up and stretch, etc.). Try doing this at least 3 times this week.
- Ask a colleague, “How have you been doing?” Not as a greeting, but a genuine check in.
- Thank a colleague for all the work they do.
- Write down something you are good at in your job. Then, write down something you enjoy about your job.
- Think: If you saw a colleague engaged in an escalating situation, how would you use one of the 3 D’s (Distract, Delegate, Direct)? It’s okay if you don’t actually do it this week. Thinking about it ahead of time may help you make quicker decisions when a situation does call for it.
- Tell a colleague about something you do that helps you maintain your own wellness.
- Download a self-care or wellness phone app. Many are free. Some people prefer paid apps. Pick what works best for you.
- Think, “If I were having a tough day and a colleague wanted to check in on me, how would I want them to approach me about it?” Thinking through hypothetical scenarios may help you figure out ways that you could check in on colleagues in the future.
- Ask a colleague who has been in service for a long time what they enjoy doing outside of work. What helps them deal with the stressful days?
- Look up staff support resources at your institution or employer. Is there an employee assistance program (EAP)? A peer or staff support team? Save a number in your phone. Print off an information sheet and stick it in your desk. You don’t have to use it this week, but make it available and accessible in case you or a coworker need it in the future.
Tia Tourville, IACFP Communications and Projects Coordinator
