Rekindling: Compassion Fatigue Solutions for Animal Workers

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 info here:

https://mailchi.mp/c8434ae6b7e7/wildheartsrising

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.