Michael explores the motivation behind the work that people do, particularly in professions such as social work, teaching, and nursing. The episode acknowledges the desire to make a positive impact in the lives of clients and discusses the challenges that arise when working with children and families who may not agree with the professional's perspective. The episode also highlights the indirect positive impact that making a difference in others' lives has on one's own self-esteem and the importance of valuing and improving one's own life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The motivation behind the work we do is often driven by a desire to make a positive difference in the lives of our clients or those we support.
• Building positive working relationships with families can be challenging, especially when they may view social workers in a negative light. It is important to be aware of their perceptions and try to establish common ground.
• Taking time to develop relationships, being clear and transparent in communication, and using plain language free from jargon can help avoid misunderstandings and build trust.
• Being flexible, non-judgmental, and non-blaming, as well as acknowledging the strengths and valuing the thoughts and feelings of the families we work with, can contribute to productive working relationships.
• Making a positive difference in the lives of others not only has an impact on them but also increases our own self-esteem and sense of significance. It is important to recognise the value of our own lives and strive to be a catalyst for positive change.

BEST MOMENTS

"We all want to make a difference, some form of positive impact in the lives of those we work with, support or advocate for." 

"Your sense of self-esteem and self-worth are increased as a result. You feel significant and this is something we all want and need to feel in some way or another." 

"Having a social worker allocated to your child instantly puts parents in conflict with you because they view the presence of a social worker as an insult or slur in connection with their image as a good parent." 

"No one likes to be monitored and asked to do things they don't want to do and, crucially, don't believe they need to do." 

"But how do you know whether you have made a positive difference in the lives of others or not? Since the outcome of your contribution is often not easy to either identify or quantify until much later." 

VALUABLE RESOURCES

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HOST BIO

Michael Watson is a qualified social worker and author with over thirty years of experience working with children and families. As an expert in family court, Michael is in a key position to assist, advise, and coach parents through their private law family proceedings and provide them with the information and skills to represent themselves successfully in court. His two books, ‘How to Represent Yourself in Family Court’, and ‘FAMILY COURT: Giving Evidence In Family Court’, provide parents with a clearer understanding of family court proceedings, legislation, and parenting skills.