
I experienced burnout in the social work field, not from working with clients or those seeking help, but from the prevailing mindset among colleagues. It wasn't the people themselves; I genuinely loved working with them. The burnout stemmed from being treated as ignorant or naive, particularly when I advocated for my clients' dreams and aspirations. When I was working with low-income youth at the time and one aspired to become a veterinarian, some colleagues dismissed it as unrealistic. I felt disgusted. I believe in my clients' potential and resilience. Why do others not? While acknowledging the challenges, we should encourage their aspirations rather than dismissing them. Tell them that it is going to be hard. Tell them they are going to have to work for it. All those things are true. But never tell them they cannot. I got burnt out from a mindset that perceived clients as stuck and incapable of success. I refuse to succumb to cynicism; I will always believe in the transformative power of giving clients a chance and supporting their dreams. The day I stop being “naive,” is the day that I quit.
Written by Mollie Ridings, LISW-S, Executive Director and Founder of Paw in Hand Project
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