MOTIVATIONAL SKILLS – KEEPING YOURSELF MOTIVATED
Dealing with complaints and problems can be stressful. There are occasionally times when you are called upon to discipline or investigate a provider. Or you may have a provider or parent who has made a complaint against you. This can be a very unpleasant and negative experience. Dealing with these negative experiences can affect your own motivation and your ability to motivate others. How can you stay motivated?
TALK TO SOMEONE
Talking with a supervisor or fellow monitor can be very helpful. Sometimes we need someone who has gone through similar situations gives us another perspective. It will be comforting to know that you are not the only one who has faced this issue. Ask other staff members how they have dealt with similar situations and what solutions they have tried. This will motivate you to try some new tactics in the field.
LET IT GO
Acknowledge that some things are out of your control. Sometimes you may deal with a situation that no matter what you say or do does not solve the problem. The more frustrated you become the more discouraged you will be. Set limits on how much time and effort you put into the situation. Then let it go.
ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR SUCCESSES
Think about the providers and parents you have helped. Acknowledge the positive influence you have been to the providers, children, families and work mates. As adults it is hard to pat ourselves on the back and when you are down it is often hard to think about those successes. To help you when you are down, keep a success diary. Jot down notes when you are pleased or proud of yourself. When you become discouraged, read your diary and remind yourself of the positive changes you have helped a provider make. Keep a list of the goals you have met, and any problems you have successfully solved.
Always take care of yourself physically. Don’t skip meals and get enough sleep. You have a very demanding job, but remember your training and hard work has made positive changes in the lives of the children you monitor.