Wellbeing
Background
As we look toward the future, NextGen human services organizations are reimagining how to include employee wellbeing as a key priority.
In the human services field, the American Public Human Services Association defines wellbeing as the set of needs and experiences that are essential, in balance and combination, to weather challenges and to have health, hope, and a sense of thriving. The 2Gen approach similarly defines wellbeing holistically, just as parents themselves do. Parents express a sense of well-being when they have opportunities to thrive financially, they experience physical and mental health, and their children demonstrate educational success and are secure and happy.
During our time together, the cohort of Frontline innovators explored these definitions and developed their personalized interpretations of wellbeing. Guided by Chad Thomas of CGSquared, the group reflected on the importance of crafting a clear vision of one's ideal state of wellbeing, identifying indicators to measure progress, and adopting practices to enhance overall wellbeing.
As a foundational step to assist other Frontline Innovators in shaping their unique definitions and indicators of wellbeing, the cohort collaborated to create the following definition of Frontline Innovators’ wellbeing, serving as a starting point for others.
Frontline Innovators’ Wellbeing Definition
Frontline Innovators’ wellbeing is a holistic concept that embodies balance and harmony across emotional, mental, physical, social, spiritual, financial, and professional health. It empowers frontline innovators to be present, resilient, feel content and comfortable, exercise autonomy, and engage in work that aligns with their values, providing a deep sense of belonging and purpose.
Why Frontline Innovators Wellbeing Matters
Frontline Innovators must prioritize their own wellbeing to be effective in supporting individuals, families, and communities. - Taking care of oneself—like putting on an oxygen mask first—ensures Frontline Innovators can provide better service and avoid burnout.
- Maintaining a healthy mind, heart, and spirit enables Frontline Innovators to stay grounded and composed in the face of crises and challenging situations.
- Wellbeing fosters a sense of purpose and motivation, helping Frontline Innovators manage triggers, avoid burnout, and maintain resilience.
- Empathy and deep connection with families and communities are essential, and a focus on self-care strengthens these abilities.
- By understanding and processing their own emotions, Frontline Innovators can better support clients.
- Modeling positive behaviors and coping strategies for families encourages resilience and sets a strong example in the community.
- Seeking assistance and sharing the emotional burden is vital for maintaining balance.
- Setting healthy boundaries and staying purpose-driven supports long-term resilience.
- The demanding nature of this work requires sustainable self-care practices to prevent burnout.
Frontline Innovators: Recommended Wellbeing Practices
Emotional and Mental Health
- Set reminders to take regular breaks to recharge and disconnect.
- Use reflection tools like journaling to track feelings and experiences.
- Engage in feedback and check-ins to support emotional needs.
Social and Belonging
- Foster supportive, honest communication.
- Conduct regular check-ins with colleagues to maintain connection.
- Create a culture where it's comfortable to seek help and share needs.
Professional Growth and Financial Wellbeing
- Encourage professional growth through continuous learning.
- Promote balanced work-life integration to sustain long-term productivity.
- Visualize yourself performing at your optimal level.
Purpose, Values, and Personal Growth
- Align daily tasks with personal values and purpose.
- Use tools like the Wheel of Life to set and tailor personal goals.
- Celebrate achievements to foster a sense of accomplishment.
Physical Health
- Prioritize hydration, healthy eating, and rest.
- Integrate physical wellbeing activities into daily routines.
- Encourage use of wellbeing programs that include physical components.
Spiritual and Reflective
- Start and end the day with mindful practices (prayer, reflection).
- Encourage activities that help align with a greater sense of purpose.
- Engage in meditation.
Resilience and Adaptability
- Embrace adaptability and don’t take things personally.
- Practice resilience by learning from all experiences.
- Conduct self-assessments to stay aware of personal needs and triggers.