Positive psychology-based wellness coaching tools offer a simplified approach that can help support individuals in the veterinary industry. Rather than delving into past problems and deficits, positive psychology centres individuals’ efforts on exploring a preferred future and leveraging their strengths as an individual.
As a dedicated advocate for mental health within the veterinary community and a seasoned well-being educator, I was honoured when the British Veterinary Receptionist Association (BVRA) approached me to craft a programme tailored specifically for veterinary receptionists and team members in first-line public-facing roles. Recognising the pivotal role they play as the face of the practice, I firmly believe that receptionists, client care advisors and practice managers are instrumental in shaping the overall tone of client interactions throughout their pet’s journey in the veterinary practice.
With a focus on awareness, behavioural change and coping mechanisms, this empowerment and resilience training offers support and fosters empowerment in every aspect of the veterinary receptionist’s journey. It is a streamlined three-step framework aimed at propelling individuals towards their goals, professionally and personally.
Where’s the best place to start with well-being?
In the context of veterinary practice, awareness stands as the fundamental prerequisite for fostering positive change and well-being. This is the first element, and it involves having knowledge or perception of one’s surroundings, thoughts, feelings and sensations. It can encompass various dimensions, including mindfulness, emotional awareness and a deep understanding of one’s values and goals.
Cultivating awareness is a crucial step in personal growth, as it allows individuals to make informed decisions, navigate challenges and work towards desired outcomes
Cultivating awareness is a crucial step in personal growth, as it allows individuals to make informed decisions, navigate challenges and work towards desired outcomes. Following the identification of personal values and goals, the subsequent steps entail probing the dissonance between these aspirations and the current professional life you, or your veterinary colleagues, are leading.
Step two – behavioural change
Element two is behavioural change, and it refers to the process by which individuals alter their actions, habits or patterns of conduct.
To be clear, behavioural change is not always easy to achieve, and it often requires commitment, self-awareness, goal setting and the development of new skills or habits. Whether it’s adopting healthier lifestyle choices, improving communication skills or enhancing productivity, the process of behavioural change is fundamental to personal and professional development. It’s not some airy-fairy soft skill; this is really hard work.
How does mindfulness fit into this?
Practising mindfulness can transform the way you interact with clients, colleagues and yourself. Mindfulness has various benefits that will positively impact a receptionist role, including enhanced focus, effective communication and stress reduction.
It also plays a significant role in resilience. By cultivating mindfulness, you become better equipped to manage stress and maintain a clear perspective during challenges. Mindfulness encourages you to stay present, manage emotions that arise and respond thoughtfully rather than reactively. (Think of a grumpy client reluctant to pay for their second consult.)
By cultivating mindfulness, you become better equipped to manage stress and maintain a clear perspective during challenges
What is resilience?
The third and final element encompasses coping mechanisms and the powerful concept of resilience. We know our various and varying roles involve managing diverse tasks, interacting with various personalities, clients and clinical teams, and dealing with unpredictable situations daily. This can be challenging and emotionally draining. In the past, I’ve listened in frustration as people were told to be more resilient. The response is usually a silent yet inquiring look asking, “How exactly am I supposed to do that?”
The good news is that resilience can be nurtured and developed. It is not an innate trait that you can instruct someone to have, that you can just “turn on”. It is a skill you can cultivate. You can learn to enhance your ability to cope with challenges and difficult situations.
Resilience equips you with the tools you need to approach challenges with a clear mind and positive attitude, turning them into opportunities for growth and improved well-being. Not only that, when we collaborate with colleagues who also share a resilient approach, this enhances the problem-solving ability of the team as a unit. Together, you overcome challenges more effectively.
Resilience equips you with the tools you need to approach challenges with a clear mind and positive attitude, turning them into opportunities for growth and improved well-being
Positive psychology-based tools play a pivotal role in enhancing well-being at work by fostering a proactive and strengths-oriented approach. Practices such as gratitude exercises, mindfulness techniques and goal setting contribute to a positive work culture and promote resilience and adaptability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the integration of positive psychology-based wellness coaching tools presents a transformative approach to supporting individuals within the veterinary industry. Stepping away from traditional approaches that dwell on past problems, positive psychology directs attention towards envisioning a preferred future and leveraging individual strengths.
In facing the challenges inherent in the veterinary field, the empowerment and resilience programme and the BVRA stand as steadfast companions, equipping veterinary practice managers and reception personnel with the tools they need to navigate and triumph over adversity, fostering positive developments in both their personal and professional lives.
