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The real power of reflection

The benefits of reflection are well documented. In “Beyond Training: New Firefighters and Critical Reflection,” published in Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal, associate professor Merilyn Childs stated: “Future firefighters will need to be adaptive, reflective and accountable; able to demonstrate discursive and inquisitive capabilities; and engage in reflected actions both on and off the incident ground.” 

In the world of fire fighting, reflection isn’t just a pause, it’s a powerful tool for self care. Ultimately, a reflective fire service cultivates a culture of learning, and boosts adaptability and camaraderie. 

Resilience: Firefighters face physical, mental and emotional challenges. Reflection acts as a crucible in which experiences are examined and lessons are extracted, forging a resilient mindset. In the aftermath of a challenging call, taking the time to reflect on what went well, what could be improved, and the emotional impact of the experience can be transformative.

By encouraging firefighters to dissect their experiences and name the emotions that come after the call, the fire service cultivates a culture of continuous improvement. 

Mind health: The intensity of the job, coupled with exposure to trauma, can lead to stress, anxiety, and other mind health challenges. This is where reflection emerges as a potent antidote.

Reflection provides a space for firefighters to process the emotional fallout left by extreme experiences. It’s a therapeutic exercise that allows individuals to confront and understand their emotions, preventing the build up of psychological burden. Regular reflection acts as a release valve, allowing firefighters to let off steam and maintain their mental well-being.

Additionally, reflection fosters a sense of mindfulness – an awareness of one’s thoughts and feelings in the present moment. This mindfulness, cultivated through reflective practices, equips firefighters with the emotional intelligence to navigate high-pressure situations with greater composure. By integrating reflective practices into their routine, firefighters develop a mental strength that serves as a shield to help protect against the damaging effects of stress and trauma.

Trust: Trust is the critical foundation of any effective fire fighting team. Trust is the glue that binds individuals in high-stakes situations, where seamless teamwork is paramount. Reflection plays a pivotal role in building and reinforcing this trust.

When firefighters come together to reflect on their experiences, a unique bond is formed. The vulnerability of sharing personal challenges and triumphs fosters a deep sense of connection and belonging. Knowing that fellow members have grappled with the same fears, doubts, and uncertainties creates an environment of mutual understanding and support. Reflective team practices help team members feel seen, heard, understood, and supported.

Trust isn’t just about relying on someone in a crisis; it’s about understanding and empathizing with the journey that led them to that point. Reflective team practices provide a structured space for these conversations, enabling team members to share not only the technical aspects of a call, but also its emotional and psychological impacts. 

In turn, this shared vulnerability enhances communication. Firefighters become attuned to each other’s needs, strengths, and triggers. They learn to anticipate and support one another, creating a cohesive unit that operates with precision even in the chaotic unpredictability of fire fighting.

Reflection isn’t a sporadic exercise; it’s a continuous journey of learning and growth. When integrated into the fabric of the fire service, it becomes a dynamic force that propels the organization forward.

By institutionalizing reflective practices, the fire service signals a commitment to learning from every experience, whether a routine call or a major incident. This commitment to continuous improvement resonates throughout the organization, inspiring a culture where mistakes are viewed not as failures but as opportunities for growth and evolution. 

The process and implementation of reflective practices are just as important as the technical training firefighters receive and may be a key factor to strengthening fire service recruitment and retention during a critical time of challenges in consistently having a full team to respond to emergencies. 

The fire service, by embracing reflection as a cornerstone of its culture, not only enhances the capabilities of its members but also fortifies the very foundation upon which their success depends. 

Shelley (Shell) Langille spent over 15 years working with fire and first responders before launching SeeShell Consulting (SSC) and the International Coach Coalition (ICC). Reach Shell at Shell@SeeShellConsulting.com.