Being in public safety is honorable and purpose-filled work.
People who dedicate their lives to public safety are often called to it, wanting to be a part of something that is bigger than themselves. They want to help people and keep their communities safe. Unfortunately, the day-to-day tasks of the work and exposures to trauma can slowly erode the sense of purpose that the work provides. When that happens the “power of purpose” gets lost and creates opportunity for one to experience a decline in mental and emotional well-being, or psychological trauma.
Leaders can help their teams by continuously reminding and keeping the purpose of the work in front of them. Reinforce the importance of the work and at every opportunity ask:
Are we living our mission?
Are we living our values?
Were you a force for good today?
These simple, yet important questions provide an opportunity for public safety professionals to focus on what calls them to the work. By staying focused on why they do what they do, they are provided the opportunity to increase their sense of well-being.