Metacognition Journalling Reflection

Metacognition Journalling Reflection – Resilience Building Strategies for Veterinary Professionals

In Episode 169, our host Julie South delves into the importance of resilience building strategies in the demanding veterinary field. She shares her insights on strengthening your inner resources to tackle challenges with poise and efficiency. One such tool that shines in this episode is metacognition journaling—a powerful practice that drives self-reflection and develops personal growth and strengthens resilience.

Julie also shares how she believes her personal resilience developing strategies – tactics she’s shared all through this series on Resilience – enabled her to survive the personal perfect storm of what turned out to be a Pear Shaped Event lasting three weeks. Tune in!

Metacognition + Journalling + Reflection: Resilience Building Strategies for Veterinary Professionals

Embracing Resilience in Veterinary Careers

“The importance of building and strengthening inner resources”

Resilience is not just a buzzword—it is a crucial skill that veterinary professionals must cultivate.

Julie South stresses the need for resilience in handling the unpredictable nature of veterinary work. Strategies such as daily walks, journaling, and finding joy in the simple aspects of life are habits that South champions for bolstering mental fortitude.

The Role of Metacognition in Resilience

“Metacognition, the process of analysing and monitoring one’s thought processes.”

Julie draws attention to the concept of metacognition. By examining our thought patterns, we equip ourselves with the tools to manage adverse events more adeptly.

This level of self-awareness is key to both processing emotions and navigating the complexities inherent in veterinary care.

Journaling as a Reflective Practice

“Journaling has psychological advantages.”

Journaling stands out as a resilience building strategy.

Julie talks about its impact on setting goals, gaining optimism, and reframing negative thought patterns.

Additionally, it’s instrumental in managing stress and promoting emotional health. It’s a method encouraged for those seeking structured personal growth and improved well-being.

Transforming Setbacks into Growth

“Seven ways to turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.”

In resilience building, how we frame our challenges makes all the difference. Julie South underscores a proactive approach: reflecting without self-blame, learning from mistakes, and strategising alternatives. Seeking outside input and revising plans is also encouraged, further solidifying one’s resilience quotient.

Reframe your mindset and your attitude
Analyse what went wrong
Learn from the / your mistakes
Strategise the alternatives
Seek outside input
Update and course correct
Build resilience

Julie shares her personal Perfect 3-Week Long Storm

By sharing her personal journey, Julie South offers a relatable perspective to listeners.

Her anecdotes demonstrate the practical benefits of resilience strategies in overcoming stressful circumstances.

These authentic moments underscore that she walks the talk, practices what she preaches and knows what she’s talking about.

The Science Behind Journaling’s Benefits

“Research by psychologist James Penny Baker in the 1980s.”

The episode explores the research supporting journaling’s efficacy in health and resilience.

Studies dating back to the 1980s reveal improvements in immune system function and stress reduction tied to expressive writing. Such findings are a testament to journaling’s long-standing role in enhancing mental health.

Final Thoughts on Building Resilience

“Encouraging listeners to keep an open mind.”

In conclusion, South encourages veterinary professionals to explore these resilience building strategies.

The episode serves as a call to action, urging listeners to begin their journaling journey and develop a resilient outlook that will serve them throughout their careers.