It’s been awhile since we’ve had some tool talk. :)
You might recall the first tool we looked at together was Developing a Social Impact Strategy. Since that time, A Force for Good has grown, grown, grown! On average, we’re welcoming six professionals a day.
Many of you tell me you subscribe because you’re concerned about the state of the world, and you’re wondering whether (and how) you can make a difference. I launched this tiny project because I believe you can.
So, as we work together to figure out where you fit - and how you might thrive! - in the social impact space, I thought I’d share two tools I’m using to build a practice of self-care into my changemaking, a vital discipline when prioritizing hard work on hard social problems.
Tool | The 3M Framework
Are you chronically stressed? I was introduced to The 3M Framework on Headspace, and I’m using it to avoid burnout (the inability to think creatively due to factors like emotional exhaustion). A practical tool, 3M asks you to build 3 types of breaks into your calendar: Macro + Meso + Mini:
Macro Breaks - Schedule 1 day a month to totally unplug and recharge
Meso Breaks - Schedule 1 hour a week to have fun, e.g., do hobbies
Mini Break - Pause 3 times a day to breathe deeply (1-3 minutes)
Tool | Self-Compassion Test
Are you routinely hard on yourself? I learned about this quick and free diagnostic while listening to a Dare to Lead podcast, and I’m using it to figure out how to be kinder to myself. Developed by Dr. Kristin Neff, the 26-question test allows you to gauge your level of self-compassion (different from self-esteem) and try exercises to build up the areas where you score low, e.g.,
Self-compassion break (so simple, yet so powerful! more here)
I’m curious, can you see yourself using these tools? And what tools are YOU using to stay optimistic & resilient as a changemaker?
I’d love to learn from you. Comments welcome below.