{"id":11595,"date":"2018-08-13T07:06:50","date_gmt":"2018-08-13T12:06:50","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.globalgiving.org\/learn\/?p=11595"},"modified":"2018-08-15T11:30:52","modified_gmt":"2018-08-15T16:30:52","slug":"six-self-care-tips-for-nonprofits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.globalgiving.org\/learn\/six-self-care-tips-for-nonprofits\/","title":{"rendered":"Why We Need To Prioritize Self-Care In The Nonprofit Sector"},"content":{"rendered":"

A<\/big><\/strong>ttention and discussion around the importance of good mental health and wellbeing in the workplace is growing, particularly in light of reports such as that by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Directors<\/a>, which show that stress is the leading cause of long-term workplace absence. As a result, leading nonprofit directors are developing a wide range of strategies to create workplaces that prioritize staff wellbeing. <\/p>\n

An important aspect of wellbeing is self-care, defined by my team at Bird<\/a> as establishing and prioritising a routine of self support that promotes better health and wellbeing and leads to more creativity, improved productivity and stronger relationships. <\/p>\n

However, nonprofit directors and managers face a range of unique challenges when it comes to self-care in the workplace. <\/p>\n

The good news? There is a way forward.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Let\u2019s look at some of the challenges first, and then dive into solutions. <\/p>\n

The nature of nonprofit work<\/h4>\n

Whether it\u2019s dealing with bereavement in cancer charities, working with vulnerable refugees, or supporting survivors of sexual violence in humanitarian crises, nonprofit employees often face emotionally challenging situations. <\/p>\n

Working in the charity sector can feel more like a lifestyle than a job.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Despite a strong desire among nonprofit leaders to relieve staff of the emotional burden of their work, the unpredictable and unreliable nature of funding means this can be a challenge. Funding for staff wellbeing and development often competes with the pressure to invest all available resources into supporting beneficiaries, which at the end of the day is what the charities are judged on. <\/p>\n

Embedded culture<\/h4>\n

Within the nonprofit sector, there is a culture of overwork\u2014long hours, taking work home with you both emotionally and literally, and running out of time to take holidays or time off in lieu are all common place, despite many directors actively trying to change it. <\/p>\n

Barriers are also often put up against the discussion of self-care, mental health, and the emotional impacts of common nonprofit culture. A reluctance to engage with emotions can be identified, with men often feeling like they are not able to speak up and admit they are struggling, and women experiencing accusations of being too emotional and therefore not up to the job. <\/p>\n

Finding balance<\/h4>\n

This dedication to the cause that many nonprofit employees experience can become detrimental to other workplace relationships. It is common to spend all your empathy on the people you serve, and then have little left in the tank to support colleagues or team members. <\/p>\n

Known as compassion fatigue, it can impact your relationships outside of work, as well. <\/p>\n

As a result, directors and managers find themselves continuously trying to facilitate a balance between staff supporting themselves, others within the organization, and the people they serve. <\/p>\n

Way forward<\/h4>\n

Despite the challenges, more leaders in the nonprofit sector are considering how to create healthy organizations. Our research at Bird suggests a two-pronged approach is needed. <\/p>\n

Leaders need to encourage staff to practice their own self-care strategies and create a culture that supports them when they do.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Here are six self-care tips for nonprofits that want to build a healthier culture:<\/p>\n