New Year Resolutions for Care Professionals
As the new year approaches, many of us will be thinking about setting ourselves a new years resolution, a tradition that has been around for many years, but where and when did this tradition begin? The first recorded people to create new years resolutions were the Ancient Babylonians, over 4000 years ago. They held a 12-day festival called Akitu and set new years pledges surrounding religion, mythology, power, and socioeconomic values.
Since then, new years has transitioned into a two day celebration, new years eve and new years day, and many people set new years resolutions surrounding their careers, social life, health and wellbeing. So, why do people make new years resolutions? Psychologist Mariana Strongin, PsyD, says that with a new year comes a “sense of renewal”, making us think about the changes we want to make in our lives.
Some of the most common new years resolutions are to exercise more, quit any bad habits, and learn a new skill or hobby. If you work within the care industry, your resolutions may look different. Are you looking for ideas? Below are some of the resolutions we recommend for the year ahead.
Resolutions for Carers:
I resolve to prioritise my mental health. It is important to remember to look after your mental health, especially whilst caring for others. Take the time to de-stress, practice gratitude, look after your physical health and connect with others. These things will have a positive impact on your mental health.
I resolve to make time to care for myself. Ensure you are switching off from your work life where possible. Make sure you are getting enough rest and relaxation, eating healthily and staying hydrated.
I resolve to enhance my skills. There are many ways a Care Assistant can continue to learn, upskill and progress within the workplace. At Cera, we offer training and apprenticeships for those wanting to expand their knowledge.
Resolutions for Support Workers:
I resolve to connect with my colleagues more Human connection is important within the workplace. When we feel connected at work, we are more likely to feel happier, more motivated and engaged and even less stressed.
I resolve to prioritise my physical health Keeping active has a huge impact on our overall wellbeing. Prioritising our physical health can decrease stress and increase your energy. Stay active by taking regular walks, partaking in fitness classes or regularly attending a gym.
I resolve to maintain a healthy diet Eating healthily can protect you from many health complications. A healthy diet can keep your eyes, skin and teeth healthy, support your bones and muscles and boosts your immunity. It may also even help you to live longer.
Resolutions for Nurses:
I resolve to incorporate a way to decrease stress There are many ways we can keep our stress levels low. Take care of your mental and physical health, ensure you are taking regular breaks and seek support from friends, family, colleagues or support groups.
I resolve to learn how to practice gratitude Practicing gratitude can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety whilst improving our overall happiness. There are many ways to practice gratitude, such as thinking of three things we are grateful for each day, starting a gratitude journal and meditating.
I resolve to find a mentor and/or mentor someone else Mentorship is extremely valuable to both the mentor and the mentee. As a mentor, you are able to develop leadership, communication and personal skills. As a mentee, you gain support and guidance from your mentor, identify and reach career goals and improve your overall confidence.
Would you like to learn more about working within the care industry? Click here to read more about the key duties of a carer and find out more about their day to day responsibilities.
If you’re interested in the career path of a Support Worker, click here to read about the skills needed to kickstart your career.
In social care, there are a wide range of options and opportunities available when wanting to progress within your career. Click here to read more about career progression and consider what path may be the right one for you.
