Rekindling: Compassion Fatigue Solutions For Animal Workers

Ever hear something that pierces right to your soul? Well that's what happened when I recently heard this concept of "forgive the present moment". Perhaps it's because it's just what I needed in that moment and I thought maybe you might need it too. 

Episode 300 just happens to fall on American Thanksgiving. Coincidence? I think not. I have a very important message for you today. Not just for Thanksgiving but for the entire holiday season and one that can glide you right into 2025 too. Don't miss this one!!! 

Over-responsibility is a term I heard recently from one of my coaches use and I immediately thought about how I see it every day in those that work in service of animals. Over-responsibility is when we take on more than is sustainable and necessary and women are often conditioned to do so. Women in helping professions often face implicit expectations to go "above and beyond". In this episode we'll explore why it happens, what some of the costs are and what can be done to break free.

Empathy, the ability to put ourselves in other's shoes can have a dark side; when we take on the emotions of others. That is unhealthy empathy and something that animal workers have to be aware of and guard against. In this episode I'll explain why we do it, what it can result in and how to protect yourself from taking on that which is not yours. 

If your candidate won, you'll probably want to skip this episode.  If the election didn't turn out how you wanted, this one's for you. I'll share with you some strategies for dealing with all the feelings that have likely come about and how to move forward. 

Anxiety is through the roof right now with the upcoming election, 24-hour news, doom scrolling and the fast pace of our society. And animal workers have their own set of stressors that cause anxiety. Everyone needs a safe space to lay down their burdens which is why I created my new group program for non-vets, Wild Hearts Rising. It's a 6-month program and it runs November-April. Registration closes on November 3, so hurry.  Here's all the details: https://mailchi.mp/c8434ae6b7e7/wildheartsrising

Today is a special day! I'm announcing my new group for animal workers, Wild Hearts Rising.   Groups are not a new phenomena and have actually been in existence for centuries. It wasn't until the 1930's when Alcoholics Anonymous started that group support started to look like what we now know as group programs.  My new group Wild Hearts Rising is more than just a group program; it's a sanctuary for those who dedicate their lives to the well-being of animals. It’s a place where the quiet heroes—vet techs, animal caregivers, lab animal professionals, zoo/sanctuary/rescue folks—come together to reconnect with their passion and find strength in a community that understands their struggles. Here, wild hearts rise with a shared purpose, driven by compassion that goes beyond words. It’s about rekindling the fire within, healing the healers, and standing strong for those who cannot speak. Together, we rise, knowing that our love for animals is what binds us, fuels us, and drives us to make a difference. Get all the i

It can feel as if there's an internal battle between your heart and your head when trying to decide whether or not to quit something. I had that experience recently myself and I'm going to tell you all about it and how to know what to do in a situation like this. Whether you're thinking about quitting a job, a volunteer gig or even a relationship, this episode will help you. 

My gemini twin Kelly is back for another episode and this time we are talking about boundaries and the surprising places that boundary issues show up. Kelly shares her wisdom and as always, a couple of zingers that only she can pull off with that adorable southern accent. Bless her heart!

In the wake of the immense destruction and devastation brought about by Hurricane Helene, a client asked me how can she hold space for the suffering others are enduring while also wanting to enjoy her life. What a thoughtful question! And do I have an answer. 

I asked my current group members what they value about the other women in the group. Their answers were unreal! I'm convinced that every women veterinarian needs to be in this group. I honestly think it would benefit them all.  Please visit my website to apply for Living a Life You Love, my 6 month group program for women veterinarians. www.juliesquires.net Registration closes 9/29 at 11:59 pm. 

We don't get to decide we're trustworthy. Instead, others assess our trustiworthiness based on specific criteria and decide for themselves. What is that criteria? I'll share it with you in this episode plus how to increase your trustworthiness.  Want to learn more about my group Living A Life You Love for women veterinarians? More info here.

I've been in Europe this week and had an experience that reminded me what matters most. It's easy to get upset over politics right now with so much going on but I want to encourage you to remember that we are all just people who want most of the same things out of life. 

We make things personal that often don't need to be. Most of that is actually just a nervous system response to something our body deems as a threat. This can get very confusing when it's in regard to others feedback and criticism but when you stay connected to who you serve and what your purpose is, you will find the space through. This energy can fuel you in such amazing ways and I call it "service energy". 

This is one of the top 5 most downloaded episodes of the podcast! And that says alot about my listeners. It says that the people I attract care about how they show up at work and want to be the best versions of themselves. We may not be able to change others but we can choose the kind of co-worker we want to be. 

This is an episode from the vault but I think it's one we all need to hear again and again. Work-life balance is the elusive thing we're all chasing and yet we've likely never even defined it. The reality is "work-life" balance means different things to different people and will mean different things depending on the season of your life. This is an episode to digest and share with others! 

At one time or another we all are faced with the question "Is it time to quit this job?". I'm a big believer in routinely re-evaluating the choices we make, including where, for whom and what our work is. From there you can either decide to make a change or redecide what you're currently doing. You aren't stuck! Enjoy this little ditty from the vault! 

My Gemini Girl Kelly Burich and I are back at it this week gabbing about all things self-care. This is the conversation you need to hear. It's part validation as to why self-care can feel so daunting and unacheivable while also part inspiration as we remind you of all of the choices you get to make about how you care for yourself. Listen in! 

I've been coaching people who work with and for animals for almost 10 years now. This episode is from 2020 and I stand by all of these lessons still. As a matter of fact, even more so!

Perhaps the deepest self-care is making time to process your emotions. Compassion fatigue is what happens when we get so filled with the residue of repeatedly bearing witness to the trauma of others. There has to be an outlet for your emotions and I hate to be the bearer of bad news but it isn't wine!