I’m sad to say facing restructure and redundancy has become an unfortunate reality for many Marketing & Comms leaders in the public sector. In my recent conversations with my friends and ex-colleagues, many of you are grappling with uncertainty and anxiety about what the future holds.
It got me thinking about Social Resilience. It’s not rocket science but perhaps not something you put at the top of the list when you think about resilience.
WHAT EXACTLY IS SOCIAL RESILIENCE?
1. The ability to draw upon the support and
strength of your social networks.
2. Fostering connections, building relationships,
and creating a support system that ‘bolsters’
you.
In my experience, being restructured into a new job or losing your job leaves you feeling isolated and like you’ve lost a bit of your identity. Whether it’s ‘survivor guilt’ because you’re staying or grief because you’re leaving – it’s tough either way. The temptation to withdraw makes this worse.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
A strong social support network provides a sense of belonging and validation, reminding you that you’re not alone.
Social resilience is not just about receiving support; it’s also about giving it. Actively taking part in your Marketing & Comms communities and giving people a helping hand not only strengthens your connections but also boosts your sense of purpose and self-worth.
It’s a ‘buffer’ against the negative effects of stress and anxiety. Knowing that you have friends, family, or colleagues who have your back reduces some of the strain.
Helps to build what I like to call your “emotional home.” Just as a physical home provides shelter
and security, your emotional home is built on a
foundation of supportive relationships and meaningful connections.
During times of uncertainty, having a strong emotional home can provide you with stability and comfort.
HOW DO I STRENGTHEN IT? REACH OUT…
Here’s a few ways I’ve found help:
Reach out to your existing networks for support. Whether it’s seeking advice from your mentor, confiding in your friend, or attending networking events, don’t be afraid to lean on those around you.
Think about expanding your social circle by joining clubs or participating in online communities. Building new relationships may feel like the last thing you want to do but it can not only provide fresh perspectives but also widen your support network, offering more resources to ‘draw upon’.
It’s all a bit daunting right now but it’s important to remember you’re not alone.
REACH OUT to boost your social resilience, to strengthen your ‘emotional home’. If your inner world is strong, you can cope better with what’s going on around you.
Take care all of you.
#ReachOut#TogetherStronger