A Transformational Journey
My Experiences Teaching a 9-Week Compassion Training Program to Government Employees
In our fast-paced, ever-demanding world, finding moments of genuine connection and compassion don’t even make the to-do list. Yet at a fundamental level most of us know that something is missing. Over the past nine weeks, I have had the privilege of guiding a diverse group of individuals through CBCT, Cognitively Based Compassion Training. This journey has been nothing short of transformative, not just for the participants but for me as well. The growth, change, and benefits observed within the group have been profound. Teaching this course to these individuals has reaffirmed my belief in the power of compassion to heal and unite. It has solidified my commitment to be part of a compassion shift in our government.
Week 1-3: Nurturing Ourselves, placing our attention on what matters, Shifting harmful perspectives
The first three weeks focused on laying the groundwork for understanding compassion, tools for regulating our nervous systems and ways to shift unskillful perspectives about ourselves and others. Participants came from a broad spectrum of departments within county government, including justice, fire, police, sanitation, parks & recreation and others. Each brought unique life experiences and challenges, both personal and professional. We began with foundational practices, such understanding and expanding our Zone of Wellbeing and noticing negative self-talk.
Many participants shared the value of learning tools to recognize when they were within their window of tolerance, able to learn, express compassion and when they needed to step back and prioritize self-care.
Week 4-5: Understanding and Applying Self-Compassion
As we moved into the middle phase of the program, the focus shifted towards developing compassion for oneself. Through group activities and group exercises, and small break-outs participants began to see how they were kinder to others than to themselves. This was revelatory for many. The atmosphere in our sessions transformed from one of tentative participation to genuine camaraderie and support.
A particularly moving moment was when one normally reserved member, shared a personal story about a recent loss. The compassion and empathy from the group were palpable. This participant shared that the group had become a safe space for her to express emotions. Others shared that they felt less alone in their losses.
Week 7-9: Expanding our Concern: Taking Action where we can.
In the final weeks, we focused on expanding our circle of concern, gratitude for the multitude of people who participate in our lives and looking at actions we can take, rather than becoming overwhelmed by the enormity of the word’s issues.
There were many stories of new ways of relating to co-workers, family members and strangers. Participants shared their realization that compassion isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s about the little things we do every day. Seeing the positive impact on our communities and workplace can be incredibly rewarding.
Observed Growth and Benefits
The most remarkable aspect of this journey has been witnessing the tangible growth and change within each participant. The initial hesitations and self-doubts gradually gave way to a collective sense of purpose and connection. Here are some of the key benefits observed:
- Enhanced Self-Awareness: Participants developed a deeper understanding of their own emotions and thought patterns. This self-awareness paved the way for greater emotional resilience and mental well-being.
- Improved Relationships: The empathy exercises helped participants foster stronger, more meaningful connections with others. Many reported improved relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
- Increased Emotional Intelligence: By practicing compassion regularly, participants became more attuned to the emotions of others, leading to more empathetic and supportive interactions.
- Greater Community Engagement: The program inspired participants to take compassionate actions within their departments creating a ripple effect of positivity and kindness throughout county government.
- Personal Fulfillment: Many participants expressed a sense of fulfillment and purpose that they had not experienced before. The act of giving and receiving compassion brought a newfound joy and contentment to their lives.
A Journey of Transformation
As the program concluded, it was heartwarming to see the bonds that had formed and the potential for the lasting impact of our time together. The journey of teaching this 9-week compassion training program has reaffirmed my belief in the power of compassion to bring about meaningful change. Each participant’s growth and transformation serve as a testament to the profound impact that compassion can have on our lives and the world around us.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to guide this group and witness their journeys unfold. This experience has been a powerful reminder that, no matter how challenging life may be, compassion remains a beacon of hope and healing. I look forward to continuing this work and helping more individuals discover the transformative power of compassion.