In a time of crisis, emotional intelligence can get you through to the other side.
How?
First, look inside yourself. ‘Resilience relies on practice – it’s not a thought exercise. But most people, especially healthcare workers, have more of this hidden strength than they realise. We need to tend to our sense of self, self-worth, purpose, and self-confidence with great care and tenderness.’
Caring for yourself, means stopping the clock. ‘We understand the need to be punctual and adhere to the demands of synchronous time in our rat-race world. But consider it instead an opportune time to let the clock stop and focus on your being. Art, painting, sculpting, drawing, singing, playing games, walking, gardening, sitting and staring at the stars – a myriad of opportunities to realign your emotions with the wonder of the earth beneath your feet.’
There is also healing power of community within teams.
Here are six ways to support each other:
- Greet your colleagues when you see them for the first time in the day, ask how they’re doing, and truly listen to what they say.
- Learn to notice a shift in a colleague’s energy levels. Even if they say they’re doing well, notice if verbal messages don't match non-verbal messages. Assure this colleague of your support and invite them to chat if necessary.
- WhatsApp groups are a good tool for colleagues to provide daily support and motivation to one another.
- Hold regular team check-in meetings, where staff can just share how they’re currently coping and express what support they need, are a good idea.
- Where needed, arrange external debriefing sessions for teams.
- As managers make use of the emotions thermometer tool which provides individuals with an opportunity to indicate and talk about their thoughts, feelings and concerns whilst dealing with daily challenges.