Living a Life in Flip Flops: The Importance of Self Care in the Workplace

Learning Objectives:

1. To learn more about the importance of self care in the workplace;

2. To develop a better understanding of vicarious trauma and burnout, and what we do to stay health at work; and

3. To facilitate discussion, as well as engage in activities that will focus on the different aspects of self care.

Abstract:

This session is intended for those professionals who spend their days taking care of others, but rarely put themselves first. Putting ourselves second serves no one. It can lead to poor health, low productivity, and burnout. Self care is essential for our overall wellbeing. Our health impacts how we feel and how we connect with others. It can be difficult to say no, but always doing for others can leave you feeling depleted and resentful. It is easy to let stress get in the way of your self-care practices. This makes it increasingly vital to dedicate time to giving our physical, psychological and emotional health some tender loving care, and to break away from the draining stress of every day life. Overtime the everyday life stress could lead to major health problems if not properly dealt with. Setting boundaries, can strengthen relationships because it allows you time to make sure your needs are met before you try to serve others. A big part of self care is gaining the strength and knowledge to believe in yourself and your ability to make choices that are right for your body and mind, instead of relying on others to make those decisions for you.
You don’t need to completely revamp your life to improve your well-being. Adding just a few self-care practices into your days can make a big difference. If you are looking for more ways to become healthier and happier, than this is the right session for you.

Literature References:

1. Essential Guide to Self Care. 2018. United States: Hearst Magazines Inc, p11

2. Pang. A. S. Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less. 2016. New York: Basic Books. P159 - 163

3. Scazzero, P. The Emotionally Healthy Leader. 2015. United States: Zondervan. p43 – 53

4. Waegemakers Schiff, J. Burnout and PTSD in Workers in The Homeless Sector in Calgary. 2016. Calgary: University of Calgary. P20-25