Take it to the next level
If you’re open to it, there are growth and transition opportunities everywhere. For many of us, it’s pretty common to desire advancement, ambition or progress in our lives, whether in career, home, relationship, projects or even in travel accumulations.
Where I see this turn up the most in therapy is in relationships (even the one with themselves) and careers. People progressing to the “next level” or desiring to up-level. In professional supervision, this can look like social workers transitioning into leadership roles. In therapy, this can look like people moving through (or challenging and making their own versions!) the “relationship escalator”. And it’s more than normal to have some human worries or thoughts about these changes or progressions too, how to do them and the meaning we may make about them. Let’s look at it.
Transitioning from a social worker role to a management position requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and support. Social workers often have strong interpersonal and empathy skills, but managerial roles demand a different skill set. Here are some starting points for supports that can help social workers make this transition:
Training / Education / Workshops: Providing social workers with access to management training programs or formal education in management and leadership is essential. These programs can cover topics such as team management, conflict resolution, decision-making, strategic planning, communication, delegation, and organizational development.
Mentorship / Coaching: Assigning experienced managers as mentors to social workers aspiring to management roles can be highly beneficial. Mentors and coaches can offer guidance, share their experiences, and help navigate the challenges of transitioning to a managerial position. If it’s not on offer, seek it out, line it up.
Professional Development Plans: When used properly, collaboratively creating professional development plans that outline the skills and experiences needed to move into management roles can be helpful, as they tailor to your individual characteristics and circumstances. Get specific with training, projects, and timelines needs and goals.
Access to Resources: Providing access to resources such as management books, articles, and online courses can empower social workers to self-educate and stay updated on management best practices.
Supportive Organizational Culture: Fostering a culture that values and supports career progression can be instrumental. Recognition and rewards for those who excel in management roles can motivate social workers to pursue these positions.
Networking Opportunities: Encouraging social workers to attend conferences, join professional organizations, and engage in networking events can help them connect with peers and mentors in managerial roles.
Feedback and Evaluation: Providing regular feedback and performance evaluations can help social workers understand their strengths and areas for improvement in relation to management skills.
Transparency in Expectations: Clearly communicating the criteria and steps involved in moving into management roles can help social workers set realistic expectations and work towards meeting those criteria.
Work-Life Balance Support: Acknowledging the challenges of transitioning to management and providing work-life balance support, such as flexible schedules or stress management resources, can help social workers cope with increased responsibilities.
Continuous Learning: Emphasizing that learning is an ongoing process and that managers also benefit from ongoing training and development can encourage social workers to pursue management roles.
Transitioning into a management role can be a rewarding journey for social workers, and these supports can make the transition smoother and more successful. It's also important for organizations to recognize the value of promoting from within, as social workers who understand the organization's mission and culture can bring unique perspectives to managerial positions. Social workers are
The (very normal) slightly shadow side: Fears.
Fear of leveling up in both career and relationships is entirely normal and often indicative of growth and change. Let's explore some common fears associated with these advancements:
Career Levelling Up:
Imposter Syndrome: Feeling like you don't deserve the success or that you're not qualified for the new role can be a prevalent fear. Remember, you earned the opportunity through your skills and dedication.
Fear of Failure: With increased responsibility comes the fear of making mistakes. Understand that failures are part of the learning process, and they contribute to personal and professional development.
Change Anxiety: Transitioning to a higher role may involve a change in routine, responsibilities, and team dynamics. Fear of the unknown can be unsettling, but it's a natural part of growth.
Work-Life Balance Concerns: Advancements often come with increased workload. Balancing work and personal life can be challenging, leading to concerns about burnout and stress.
Lack of Skills: Doubting your ability to meet the demands of a more advanced position is common. Continuous learning and adaptability are key to overcoming this fear.
Relationship Levelling Up:
Fear of Vulnerability: Moving to a deeper level in a relationship often requires increased emotional openness. The fear of being vulnerable and the potential for emotional pain can be daunting.
Commitment Anxiety: Whether it's moving in together, getting engaged, or another significant step, the fear of long-term commitment can surface. This fear may be rooted in concerns about loss of freedom or fear of failure.
Change in Dynamics: Advancing a relationship can alter dynamics and routines. The fear of change, even when positive, can be unsettling.
Communication Challenges: Fear of expressing needs, fears, or desires can lead to communication breakdowns. Effective communication is crucial in navigating relationship growth.
Past Relationship Trauma: Previous negative experiences can instill fear about repeating patterns or facing similar challenges in a new phase of the relationship.
Loss of Independence: In a relationship, leveling up might mean merging lives more closely. Some individuals fear losing their sense of independence or individual identity.
To address these fears:
Self-Reflection: Understand the root of your fears. Are they based on past experiences, self-doubt, or a fear of the unknown?
Communication: Openly discuss your fears with trusted friends, mentors, or your partner. Sharing these concerns can alleviate their impact.
Incremental Steps: Break down the process of leveling up into smaller, manageable steps. This can make the overall journey less overwhelming.
Embrace Growth Mindset: View challenges as opportunities for growth. Each step, whether in career or relationships, contributes to your personal development.
Seek Support: Surround yourself with a support system that encourages and uplifts you during times of fear and uncertainty.
Remember, fear is a natural part of any significant change or progress. Acknowledging and addressing these fears empowers you to move forward with confidence, resilience and humanity.
