OUT ON THE HILL is the official blog of the Victory Congressional Interns. Views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of LGBTQ+ Victory Institute. Learn more about the internship at victoryinstitute.org/vci.
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Every three weeks, I make it a goal to schedule a “Self-Care Day.” After a long week of hard work, I think it’s important to make sure that I treat myself well. From getting my hair cut, to getting a manicure, I’ve realized how much I appreciate the relaxation that comes with sitting in a spa chair after a long week of serving the public. My confidence and work product are enhanced when I feel good; taking the time to relax not only helps me perform well at work, but it allows me to reflect on the prior week. I work hard, and it’s important for me to show myself appreciation, especially on those days when not even the best news could lighten my mood.
When it feels like the world is caving in, it can be difficult to check in with yourself and to recognize your own hard work. For public servants, whose work environments are shaped by the current political climate, you constantly have a full plate. Performing self-care can feel like a task rather than an act of self-love or preservation. It’s amazing how much one’s work environment influences the attitude they bring home and their outlook on life.
Why is it that people allow their mental stability and emotions to be so controlled by politics?
On The Hill, the commitment public servants have for the American people often overshadows their own needs. Despite how much work public servants put into bolstering America, there’s a lack of appreciation for those who keep our country functioning. Although there is only so much public servants can control when working for the government, it is important for Americans to recognize that without public service and servants, our nation would collapse.
In recent years, public servants have often been referred to as “corrupt bureaucrats,” by virtue of their service to the federal government despite the many nuances of why people serve in public government. There is no one reason why someone chooses to dedicate their lives to serving others, but the fact that many public servants don’t receive the appreciation they deserve and instead receive political backlash, can be disheartening and make public servants feel like their work is not valued by the communities in which they serve. This stereotyping of public servants can deter advocates from fighting for the causes they believe in. It is more important than ever for our public servants to take care of themselves before they take care of others.
In an era where public service is politicized and undervalued, those who dedicate their lives to it must learn to prioritize their own well-being. Self-care isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity —in high-pressure environments. By taking the time to recharge and to perform self-care, public servants can continue their work with renewed energy and resilience. After all, serving others starts with taking care of yourself. Recognizing your own hard work and showing yourself appreciation isn’t selfish – it’s what allows you to keep making a difference. When you feel good, your performance is even better. When you know you’re fighting the good fight, reassuring yourself and giving yourself credit for all your efforts will continue propelling you towards achieving your public service goals.
