Compassion and the Nonprofit Professional

Our providers are on the front lines—and we get tired! Frankly, it is not always easy to be compassionate. Here is some insight that may revive our abilities:

Tips for Compassion

1. Realize that while you may be having a difficult time, in their own way, many around you are also suffering as well. Like you, they may be trying not to show it. Recognize this reality and be compassionate to others.

2. In a similar vein, when one acts or responds negatively towards you for no apparent reason, understand that their attitude or response may have nothing to do with you whatsoever. Being in pain or suffering often results in one responding or reacting negatively to all those around them. Recognize this reality when someone acts in such a manner and respond with compassion.

3. The greatest gift we can give to our self and others often is a pause between a negative stimulus and our reaction. It is in this pause that compassion can be most powerful.

James R. Doty, M.D.

We know that our jobs are hard. Try to be good to yourself so you don't get too burnt out. Take a day off—read a book—Netflix and chill. We need you!!! Most importantly, there are people in your community who are counting on you to help them learn to read.