What do leaders value when they have a space to support and be supported by one another?

I recently asked the members of one of our nursing managers' Inspiration Circles a simple question:

In just one sentence, what do you value most about being part of the Circle?

Four of the five members responded. These were their words:

• "Connection with like-minded colleagues and carers"

• "Giving, receiving and growing."

• "Non judgemental and like-minded peer support"

• "Building, growing, friendship and support"

• "Encouragement"

I have been reflecting on these responses.

They didn't speak about gaining new knowledge, learning new skills or finding answers to difficult problems.

Instead, they spoke about connection, friendship, support, encouragement and growing together.

Perhaps this reminds us of something important about wellbeing.

In aged care communities, leaders spend much of their time responding to the needs of others. Supporting residents, families and team members. Managing challenges. Making decisions. Carrying responsibility.

But where do they go to be supported themselves?

The Inspiration Circles were created to offer a small space for exactly that.

Once a month, leaders come together online. We take time to recognise what we are grateful for, acknowledge what is going well and explore the challenges we experience.

We listen, reflect, share and learn from one another.

Sometimes someone offers a practical idea that makes a difference. Sometimes a question helps us see something differently. And sometimes, simply hearing that another person has experienced something similar brings encouragement.

There is value in both giving and receiving support.

In our work towards more person-directed cultures, we often speak about the importance of seeing, knowing and valuing each person.

That includes the people who lead our teams and communities.

Their wellbeing matters, too.

Perhaps the words of the Circle members offer a reminder that supporting wellbeing does not always require something new or complicated.

Sometimes it begins with creating space for people to connect, listen, be heard and encourage one another.

A question to pause with:

Where in your working life do you have the opportunity to receive the same understanding, encouragement and support that you offer others?

The true2you Inspiration Circles are small, monthly online peer-support groups for leaders in aged care, including nursing and care managers, and home and village managers. Find out more on our Inspiration Circle page.