This is why wellbeing at work is complicated

Wellbeing at work isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. It’s not just about self-care or policies; it’s about navigating the overlapping responsibilities of individuals, teams, and systems.

For teachers, this complexity can feel overwhelming: how much is within your control, and how much depends on others?

This is where the Me, We, Us model can help. By breaking wellbeing into three interconnected layers, it provides clarity on where to focus efforts and how each level contributes to the bigger picture. Based on Bronfenbrenner’s ecological model, it acknowledges the interconnectedness between these layers which creates a reciprocal ripple effect.

Me: The Individual’s Role

Your wellbeing starts with you:

•  Set Boundaries: Protect your time and energy by saying “no” when needed.
•  Practice Self-Care: Find what recharges you and make it a priority.
•  Speak Up: Share your needs with colleagues and leaders.
•  Focus on Growth: Learn strategies to build resilience and manage stress.

This layer emphasizes that while you can’t control everything, there are actions within your power to prioritize your health and energy.

We: The Role of People

Teams shape the culture of wellbeing:

•  Support Each Other: Listen, encourage, and celebrate successes.
•  Create Safety: Foster trust by allowing open, judgment-free conversations.
•  Collaborate: Solve challenges together and share the load.

A strong team dynamic builds a sense of connection and belonging, which are critical for workplace wellbeing.

Us: The Role of Systems

Leadership and policies provide the foundation:

•  Model Wellbeing: Leaders should prioritize their own health and encourage others to do the same.
•  Enable Flexibility: Implement policies that support work-life balance.
•  Provide Resources: Offer tools like wellness programs and EAPs.
•  Seek Feedback: Regularly evaluate and adjust practices to meet staff needs.

Without systemic support, even the most motivated individuals and collaborative teams will struggle. Systems lay the groundwork for sustainable change.

How the Me, We, Us Model Helps

The Me, We, Us model simplifies a complex issue by offering a clear framework:

•  Shared Responsibility: It distributes the load, making wellbeing a collective effort.
•  Holistic Approach: It addresses wellbeing from multiple angles—individual actions, team dynamics, and structural changes.
•  Practical Guidance: It highlights actionable steps at each level, empowering everyone to contribute.
•  Scalable Impact: When all three elements align, the positive effects ripple through the entire school community, benefiting teachers, students, and leadership alike.

Putting It All Together

The Me, We, Us model encourages us to stop looking for a single solution to workplace wellbeing. Instead, it invites individuals, teams, and leaders to take responsibility for their unique roles while working toward a shared goal. When these layers intersect, schools become places where teachers and students can truly thrive.