Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the basic ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we are doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what is going on around us. (Mindful.org, 2014)

Many studies have shown the positive effects of mindfulness, especially in health and social care settings (NICE, 2020). For example, van der Riet et al. (2018) demonstrated the effectiveness of mindfulness in improving the wellbeing of healthcare practitioners, while Kinman et al. (2019) found it offers extensive benefits for social workers, including enhanced emotional literacy, mental health and resilience, and reduced compassion fatigue and distress. Interviews with participants also revealed that mindfulness helps individuals achieve better work-life balance by enabling them to disconnect from work-related concerns and recharge their energy and motivation.

Kinman et al.’s study also found mindfulness can help improve job performance in the following ways:

• When experiencing pressure, we are more aware of the options we have available to manage it.

• We are able to sharpen our focus and prioritising skills.

• We become more adept at identifying what we can and cannot control in high-stakes situations. 

• We carry more energy by reducing wasted effort and enhancing recovery processes.

• We are less judgmental towards others and ourselves, more patient and trust in our intuition and authority.

Some guidance on learning to be mindful and more information on mindfulness can be found here.