Chaplain, Know Thyself: Practices for Deepened Self-Awareness

Chaplains who practice the skills of self-awareness become mindful of who they are, of what they do and say (and don’t say), of how they are perceived, and of the contexts they serve in. Self-awareness fosters compassion and true presence and helps chaplains honor, regulate, and tend to their own care and recovery. The chaplain’s commitment to “do no harm” applies to them as well as to those for whom they care. An ongoing practice of self-awareness can help chaplains to remember not to sacrifice themselves or ignore the signs of potential harm to their body, soul, and spirit. This article offers a “how to” framework for self-awareness, focusing on knowing one’s identity, expanding self-awareness through others, practicing boundaries, and engaging self-care and recovery.