How to motivate staff to be pro-active about wellbeing

Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s being self-responsible

How can we engage people to be proactive and self-responsible??

We all understand the pivotal role that continuous professional learning plays in the growth and success of educators. However, the challenge lies not just in offering professional development opportunities but in actively engaging educators in the process.??

Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is a powerful framework that can serve as the compass guiding school leaders toward creating a culture of intrinsic motivation and sustained enthusiasm for professional learning.??

Self-Determination Theory, developed by Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan, revolves around three fundamental psychological needs that drive human motivation:?

1. Autonomy: The desire to be the author of one's actions and make choices aligned with personal values.?

What this means for leaders who want people to engage in wellbeing initiatives is we need to foster autonomy with choices. This means providing people with options and not taking it personally if some people opt out. It also means allowing for flexibility in timelines and modalities, empowering people to take ownership of their wellbeing journey. It also important to engage people in decision-making processes and invite feedback to ensure initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of staff.?

2. Competence: The need to feel effective and capable in one's interactions with the environment.?

This means creating a Culture of Competence, where knowledge is developed and good work is celebrated. This could include professional learning related to self-care, online information portals and a resources centre. Showcasing success stories within the school community to inspire a sense of competence and pride also builds competence, as does mentorship programs or peer support systems to facilitate continuous improvement.?

3. Relatedness: The yearning for a sense of connection and belonging with others.?

Encourage the formation of collaborative learning communities within the school. Foster a sense of shared purpose and interconnectedness among educators. Facilitate peer collaboration and mentoring programs where people can learn from and support each other. Create platforms for knowledge-sharing and collaboration, both in-person and through digital channels.?

By infusing Self-Determination Theory principles into the fabric of wellbeing initiatives, school leaders have the opportunity to empower staff, foster intrinsic motivation, and create a culture where educators thrive.??

How will you encourage people to be self-determined at your school?