Reframe your focus...

A scarcity mindset is a mental framework or perspective characterised by a belief that resources are limited, and there is not enough to go around.

Individuals with a scarcity mindset tend to focus on what they lack, whether it be time, money, opportunities, or other resources, leading to feelings of inadequacy and fear of not having enough.

This mindset can result in a competitive mentality, hoarding behaviors, and a reluctance to take risks.

In the realm of social work, where compassion meets challenge, the mindset we bring to our profession can profoundly impact both our personal and professional lives.

At times, we find ourselves caught in the web of scarcity mindset, where limitations overshadow possibilities. This mindset can hinder our ability to creatively problem-solve and provide the best support for those in need. As social workers, it is crucial to recognise and overcome this scarcity mentality for our own well-being and the benefit of those we serve.

This topic links to this week's podcast episode...

Season 3 - Episode 3

???????Too Much Work Not Enough Time

Podcast Episode Summary

In this episode, I discuss the feeling of being overwhelmed with too much work and not enough time. I explore three mindsets that contribute to feeling overwhelmed: perfectionism, superhero syndrome, and time scarcity mentality. I also provide three practical tips to help you navigate the challenging landscape and create a healthier work-life balance: setting boundaries, prioritising tasks, and practicing self-compassion.

Listen here

Whilst creating this newsletter, I discovered something exciting.        

I am delighted to share the exciting news that I've secured my FIRST premium podcast subscriber for the "Dear Social Worker, Let's Talk" podcast.

The support and commitment from this subscriber mean more than just a financial contribution; it represents a connection forged through shared curiosity and an appreciation for the unique perspectives presented in my podcast. This milestone fuels my passion to continue delivering valuable, thought-provoking content, and I look forward to the journey ahead as the "Dear Social Worker" community grows.

Here's to the start of an enriching and collaborative adventure!

????Coaching Insights: People Pleasing

Here's a previous podcast episode on people pleasing, entitled: 'The People Pleasing Predicament.' Listen here

This has been a recurring theme in my coaching sessions so far this year! Social workers often find themselves envisaging and catering to others' needs (in some cases 'perceived' needs), but it's equally crucial to recognise the importance of prioritising not only personal needs but also meeting professional expectations. Taking a step back to recognise the impact of the compromises being made is part of this process. The primary facets of practice where this manifests (from my coaching sessions) include:

1. Overcommitting to Children and Families: Undertaking additional tasks or making frequent visits (which has been a prevalent issue, with some social workers visiting weekly) can lead to burnout and hinder the quality of service (in some cases this approach can lead to resentment).
2. Unrealistic Timelines: While a certain pace is required to meet needs, underestimating the time required for tasks can have repercussions not just for the families but also for the social workers themselves. I know in meetings it can feel like a pressure cooker to say 'yes, I'll do it 2 weeks,' but revisit the question, 'what is the impact of saying yes?'
3. Ignoring Personal Boundaries: In social work, where there's always something to be done, ignoring personal boundaries is common. However, if this stems from a fear-driven desire to 'please' others, it may necessitate further reflection.

Ultimately self-awareness and time for reflection serves as a compass, guiding decisions based on professional duties rather than an overwhelming desire to meet everyone's expectations. Further exploration on the emotion of fear that underpins people pleasing would also be helpful. Here's 3 tips to help you on your journey:

1. Self-Reflection: Regularly assess and acknowledge your own needs, ensuring that professional decisions are rooted in your well-being/your professional role.
2. Establish Boundaries: Clearly define and communicate personal boundaries to maintain a healthy balance between professional duties and personal well-being.
3. Open Communication: Foster a culture of open communication with colleagues and supervisors to address concerns, seek support, and collaboratively manage workloads.

Here's a previous podcast episode on people pleasing, entitled: The People Pleasing Predicament: Listen here

Social Work Coaching Hub Events 2024

This is year is going to be so much fun! ????????

I'm embracing my own advice of operating in my highest self! I'm not new to hosting events, but it's new in the social work arena. In this picture, I had my dear social worker (no pun intended) friends help me out at my women empowerment event (I think it was 2019). Now I'd like to start hosting events for social workers and I'm super excited to start this journey with you.

This event aims to empower and engage social workers through thought-provoking discussions, connecting with like-minded professionals and fostering a sense of community.

I believe that by coming together, we can strengthen our collective impact and create positive change in the lives of those we serve. The aim of our event is to:

1.Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Providing a safe space for and empowering black safeguarding professionals.

2.Enhance Professional Development: Addressing and discussing social work leadership to enhance skills within the profession.

3.Advance Mental Health Awareness: Emphasising mental health and well-being to address the unique challenges faced by social workers. Offering support and guidance for emotional health among both experienced practitioners and students.

????????Get your tickets here

This event is for:

• Student Social Workers
• Experienced social workers
• Social Work Managers
• Independent Social Workers
• Social Care Organisations

Topics being covered at the conference:

• Safeguarding for Black Social workers
• Wellbeing & Mental Health
• Social Work Leadership
• Student Social Worker Support & Advice

Stalls available - email me: [email protected] or message me here on linked for details.

Empowering Social Workers Conference Tickets

????????Get your tickets here

Opportunities

• ??SWCH Awards 2024 ?? will be launching to celebrate social work coaches and social work content creators. Exhibitors, email all queries to [email protected]
• Want a stall at the Empowering Social Workers Conference, send me a message, or email me for details: [email protected]
• Book your Trauma-Informed Self-Care Workshop for your organisation? Email for more information pack. [email protected]
• Want to be a Dear Social Worker podcast guest, apply here
• Want me to feature on YOUR platform. Email me [email protected]
• Want me to be your coach? You're invited to take the Risk of Burnout Quiz Click here

A gentle reminder...

• Take breaks
• Book that annual leave like it's the hottest concert ticket (as it's the beginning of the year, do it advance!!!)
• Remember: self-care isn't selfish; it's survival!

Until the next SWCHaroo....

Keep going... and may your coffee be strong ????and your Wi-Fi stable ?? We've got this!

Have a Blessed rest of the week??????

Le'Siran (pronounced Lisa-Ann)

Founder of SWCH ?? Social Work Coaching Hub