As I prepare and plan for our new year, like many of you, I’ve reflected about my own personal and professional needs. In 2013 I will improve my emotional, physical, and spiritual health. Professionally I will increase attentiveness to detail, develop time management and computer skills, scholarly publishing, listen to classical, jazz, nature sounds, and instrumental music to lessen stress while driving to work so I have the energy to better serve others.
During the first week of January I was making a “Work, Education, and Recovery,” presentation to both peers and staff. Insightfully, a person served expressed wanting to be supported holistically; that the staff, clinical team and family view them as a “whole person” in order to be successful at pursuing educational and employment goals. For example, having emotional and medication (side-effects) needs timely addressed and flexible medical appointment hours that support pursuing education and work goals. Furthermore, another person mentioned balancing intake of sugar, caffeine tobacco products, watching TV, and sitting too much. Plus, gaining access to quality foods and making informed food and life choices. I noted, we also need to thoughtfully challenge one another through “peer support” and self-help. The lack of physical health is a challenge and barrier to maximizing one’s skills and talents of gainful employment. In addition, regardless of the economic climate we need to dispell the notion that there are “no jobs” when developing skills and “job searching is not a priority.” Our health and social standing depends on it!
Join the Pledge!
• Work is not a Choice!
• Work is an Expectation!
• Avoid Life Long Poverty!
• When paid work is available I will not volunteer instead!
• If I am going to be unsuccessful let it be during relentless employment/school attempts!
• Employment is healthy risk taking!
• Accept (as needed) supports for work/school!
• I know work/career improves my health!
I welcome your New Year employment thoughts to support individuals living with mental health and addiction concerns.
George Brice
augellsl
Brittany Stone
francine m bates
Joni Dolce
Melissa Roberts
Ni Gao
George H. Brice, Jr.
Vocational Voice
Bill Waynor
vocationalvoice: the integrated employment institute 