With the spheres of impact model, I can better see how my choices, values, and behaviors impact not only myself but also my loved ones, my community, and others around me. Each layer builds upon the one before it. I can be more mindful and present with people when I take better care of myself.
Myself: I start my sphere of impact with the habits that I build for my personal development and well-being. I try to eat healthy, move my body frequently, and push myself when I’m unmotivated or stuck. I’m also dedicated to learning, whether it be by reading, watching, or thinking. Even if I don’t always get it right, the key to my growth is continuously caring for myself. I’ll be starting the Clinical Assistant Program (CAP) this summer, and I know the work will be hard. Long days of patient care and practical training will require me to be mentally and physically ready. That means continuing the habits I’ve established, such as taking breaks when necessary, remaining organized, and setting clear boundaries between work and relaxation.
My Inner Circle: The sphere includes my family and friends. I’m better able to support them emotionally when I’m looking after myself. I always try to make people laugh, check in frequently, and lend a helping hand when I can. Even when we’re all busy, I think it’s important to be a reliable person. I’m aware that I’ll need to intentionally make time for the individuals I care about this summer as I juggle CAP and other obligations. These relationships are what keep me grounded, therefore I hope to keep fostering them even in stressful situations.
My Community: For me, the community consists of various circles. My dance team, Nandana, has helped me form deep relationships. In my church community, where people support one another during celebrations and times of need, I have also discovered connection and direction. I have a strong feeling of cultural identification because of my Asian community, and being a member of groups that celebrate that identity has strengthened my bonds with people who have gone through similar things. My classmates and the people I’ve met while volunteering also give me a sense of community. Every encounter adds to the network of connections that help to define who I am. I intend to volunteer with Big Bend Hospice this summer to broaden this network even more. I can’t wait to use the compassion I’ve developed in these communities to help patients and their families during difficult times.
The Word: On a wide scale, I make an effort to live by principles like kindness, fairness, and open-mindedness. I think it’s crucial to seek understanding from other people’s experiences as well as learn. Little things like being informed or listening patiently can have a big impact on the world we live in.
My goal for this summer is to grow in how I show up in every sphere. I want to become more emotionally resilient, stay grounded in service, and develop the ability to be present in both happy and uncomfortable situations. – Caitlyn Katumalla
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