This week’s topic is one that resonates deeply across health, social care, and beyond, as everyone needs to manage stress more effectively and become more resilient and emotionally regulated.
Natalie Robertson is an independent social worker, trainer, and founder of The Social Life. Rooted in trauma-informed practice and leadership development, Natalie’s work is all about creating safe, supportive environments where professionals can thrive — reducing burnout, improving staff retention, and ultimately enhancing outcomes for children, families, and service users.
Key Takeaways
· Stay aligned with your values.
Check in with yourself daily. Connect, breathe, and reflect. Self-leadership starts with the belief that we have a responsibility to take care of ourselves so that we can show up as the best version of ourselves — practitioner, colleague, leader.
· Structure your day intentionally.
Resilience doesn’t happen by chance. Build positive routines and habits that support your energy and emotional well-being.
· Culture matters.
Organisations must acknowledge and respond to the emotionally challenging nature of professional services. Leaders have a duty to foster cultures of care, reflection, and mutual support.
· Use your support networks.
Coaching, supervision, and peer connections are not luxuries — they’re essential tools for sustaining performance and purpose.
Advice for new professionals:
Start as you mean to go on. Get clear on your values early — and stay connected with them as your career develops.
To connect with Natalie, find her on LinkedIn or on Instagram at The Social Life. Her weekly insights are both practical and inspiring.
Today’s Challenge
Are you still trying to be a superhero? Is it time to check in with yourself?
Ask yourself:
What’s one thing I can do today to guard against emotional exhaustion — for myself or for a member of my team?
Take one small action. Because remember — Success Is Never Accidental.
