How do you recognize the accomplishments of peer support?

1 Define your goals

The first step to recognize the accomplishments of peer support is to define your goals and expectations. What are you trying to achieve with peer support? How do you measure your progress and success? How do you align your goals with the needs and preferences of the people you support? By clarifying your goals, you can have a clear vision of what peer support means to you and how you can evaluate your performance and impact.

2 Seek feedback

The second step to recognize the accomplishments of peer support is to seek feedback from various sources. Feedback can help you identify your strengths and areas for improvement, as well as validate your efforts and achievements. You can seek feedback from the people you support, your peers, your supervisors, or other professionals in your field. You can also use self-assessment tools, such as surveys, journals, or portfolios, to reflect on your own practice and learning.

3 Celebrate milestones

The third step to recognize the accomplishments of peer support is to celebrate milestones and achievements, both big and small. Milestones can be personal or professional, such as completing a training, reaching a certain number of hours, or helping someone achieve their goal. Celebrating milestones can help you acknowledge your growth and development, as well as motivate you to keep going. You can celebrate milestones by rewarding yourself, sharing your stories, or joining a community of peer supporters.

4 Learn from challenges

The fourth step to recognize the accomplishments of peer support is to learn from challenges and setbacks. Challenges are inevitable in peer support, as you may encounter difficult situations, ethical dilemmas, or emotional distress. However, challenges can also be opportunities to learn and improve your skills and knowledge. Instead of feeling discouraged or guilty, you can use challenges as feedback and lessons for the future. You can learn from challenges by seeking support, asking questions, or taking a break.

5 Maintain balance

The fifth step to recognize the accomplishments of peer support is to maintain balance and well-being. Peer support can be demanding and exhausting, especially if you neglect your own needs and boundaries. To prevent burnout and compassion fatigue, you need to take care of yourself and your health. You can maintain balance by setting limits, practicing self-care, engaging in hobbies, or seeking professional help if needed.

6 Share your impact

The sixth and final step to recognize the accomplishments of peer support is to share your impact and contribution. Peer support can have a positive and lasting effect on the lives of the people you support, as well as on yourself and your community. By sharing your impact, you can inspire others, raise awareness, and advocate for peer support. You can share your impact by telling your story, joining a network, or participating in research or events.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?