Long-term Continual Focus on the Development of the Self
Resilience Task 10
by Joanna Quanbeck, Ph.D., LP
There is an intense amount of learning and study in graduate school, as one readies to launch into the formal work of one’s vocation of caring and service. Yet the work of learning begins in a new way after the academic coursework is completed and the diploma is received. It is in the subsequent years when clarity emerges as to the ongoing development and growth that is needed. The gift is that we get to individually and thoughtfully examine what kind of learning will best support our sustainability.
A long-term continual focus on the development of the self is one of the key tasks of resilience that Dr. Tom Skovholt identifies. Now, the service-focused culture of ministry may make talk of long-term continual focus on the development of the self feel perhaps uncomfortable or indulgent. Shouldn’t we be focused on others, rather than spending time, energy, and resources on developing the self? There’s so much to do; I don’t have time for anything extra, one might say. Yet, it is not a matter of either/or, but rather both/and. It is costly to one’s wellbeing and professional sustainability if one does not listen and attend to the areas for ongoing care and learning one personally needs. In order to have sustainable, skillful, wise care for others, there needs also to be ongoing attention to the development of the self.
One of my colleagues said that the key to sustainability in her service-focused profession is that she keeps plugged into her interests. She takes continuing education classes that do double duty of meeting her professional needs and also feeding her own spirit or her desire for growth. Doing so keeps her engaged and motivated. Another colleague prioritizes space and time for continuing to hone his skills in music and art, as a way to inspire creativity in his preaching and writing. Yet another prioritizes resources for the learning and self-reflection that come through travel. By honoring the task of continual focus on the development of the self, each of these colleagues sustain their wellbeing and deepen their capacity to show up for their vocations of caring for others.
What a lovely opportunity to bring a kind, curious question to yourself: What interests me? What nutrients need replenishing for me to flourish in my life and work? Where do I want to continue to grow? Our development needs are not one-size-fits-all. Perhaps for you it may be creating space for creativity or humor; perhaps for another it may be growing in knowledge of financial wellbeing or conflict-management strategies; for another it may be developing practices for physical activity or nutritional care.
Take time to pause and mindfully check in with yourself, asking as you would a dear friend: What do you need? What do you care about? What needs tending in order to meet the challenges of your professional and personal vocations? It can be hard to muster the calm and quiet for such reflection. Consider taking this compassionate self-inquiry on a walk, to the garden, to a beautiful vista, to a listening friend, to a trusted spiritual director or therapist. Any of these can be valuable spaces to help you tune in more closely to your needs, interests, and values. This gentle practice is in keeping with the contemplative traditions that help us mindfully observe how we are doing and what we need. Doing so helps us reset our priorities and deepen life-long rhythms of learning and growth that nurture resilience.
