Here's how you can develop the key attributes of a strategic thinker in the field of Peer Support.

People don’t fear change, they fear loss. Empathy involves understanding & sharing another person's feelings. Developing empathy is a skill that needs practice, similar to a muscle that weakens without use. While some individuals seem naturally empathetic, others must work to cultivate this skill genuinely. It's important to recognise that each person's expression of empathy is unique. Empathy is not about indulging or rescuing others or engaging in superficial conversations. In Mental Health Peer Support, empathy is about creating a space of mutual understanding, sharing joy without judgment, & showing compassion without criticism. It's about being fully present & conveying your humanity without saying a word.

My first and most important piece of guidance is become a master listener. Learn to monitor the internal dialogue that plays in the background when others are speaking. In coaching, we refer to this as maintaining presence. This will help you hone your ability to: - understand the silence of others & read the room better - understand your own silence & manage real time emotions - develop rapport through non-verbal communication It’s also important to remember that peer support is not the same as peer advocacy. Generating a willingness to hear and listen to understand the messages that others are providing will provide you with a peer support superpower, the ability to find the melody, not just the notes in conversation.

To cultivate a creative environment, it's crucial to remove biases and promote an idea meritocracy, where ideas are valued regardless of their source. This inclusive approach encourages diverse perspectives and innovation. Creating a safe space for exploring ideas without judgment is essential. Embracing a test-and-learn mindset, where mistakes are seen as opportunities to learn, is key. Creativity also thrives on collaboration and lateral thinking, which can lead to unique solutions. In peer support, creative problem-solving allows us to adapt techniques from various disciplines or invent new strategies tailored to individual needs. Flexibility and innovation help address unique challenges.

Peer Support at it’s core is the ability to aid others in cultivate an experimental mindset. This involves encouraging individuals to approach challenges with curiosity and openness, rather than fear or resistance. By fostering a safe environment where trial and error are seen as valuable parts of the learning process, peer supporters can help others develop resilience and adaptability. This mindset allows people to view setbacks as opportunities for growth, which can lead to innovative solutions and personal development. Through shared experiences and mutual encouragement, peer support becomes a powerful tool for collective progress and individual empowerment.

I've always struggled with journaling, but I adore a beautifully designed chart. My method involves using a chart system to log my thoughts, emotions, & even physical sensations from specific experiences. Later, I review these entries, both on my own & with a coach, to better understand the messages behind these data points. Based on my experience, incorporating a routine reflective practice following interactions with colleagues, clients, & personal encounters has boosted my capacity to connect with others while staying true to my objectives while also remaining grounded transforming me & those I coach into a more astute & conscious strategic thinker.