Personal Performance and Resilience
Assessment Type: Individual Reflection Report– 1000 words.
Purpose: The individual reflection report allows you to evaluate your knowledge and skills in the course. It is designed to encourage you to take ownership of your learning, performance and outcomes.
Task Details: You are to write a Reflective Journal on:
- How the activities and the assignments have improved your knowledge and awareness in regards mental health and wellbeing challenges in gig economy
- What was the challenge in preparing you’re the research reports on mental health and wellbeing resources for gig workers?
- How the knowledge and skills you develop in this subject will be used in your future career endeavour
Suggested Structure: each of the above reflection points is addressed in one paragraph, no headings and sub-heading is required, please optimize the use of connecting/linking words.
Submission requirements details: Individual Assessment. Word limit: 1000 (excluding reference list). You need to state the word count of the assessment on the cover page. The review should be professionally presented using proper headings and sub-headings, in Arial 10pt or Times New Roman 12pt, single space. Harvard (Anglia) style referencing.
Individual Reflection Report: Personal Performance and Resilience
Introduction
The gig economy, characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work, has become a prominent feature of the modern labor market. As a participant in this course, I have gained significant insights into the mental health and wellbeing challenges faced by gig workers. This reflection report evaluates my personal growth throughout the course, particularly regarding my knowledge and awareness of mental health issues within the gig economy. I will also discuss the challenges I encountered while preparing research reports on mental health resources for gig workers and explore how the skills and knowledge acquired will benefit my future career.
Knowledge and Awareness of Mental Health Challenges
The activities and assignments in this course provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the unique mental health challenges that gig workers encounter. Through readings, discussions, and case studies, I learned that gig workers often experience isolation, financial insecurity, and the pressure of self-management. Unlike traditional employment, gig work lacks structured support systems, leaving workers vulnerable to stress, anxiety, and burnout.
One particular assignment required me to research the psychological impacts of gig work. This deep dive into existing literature highlighted the prevalence of mental health issues among gig workers, such as depression and anxiety, often exacerbated by the lack of job security and social support. This research made me more aware of the systemic issues at play and the importance of developing resources and interventions tailored specifically for this workforce.
Additionally, engaging with guest speakers who shared their personal experiences added a valuable perspective. Hearing firsthand accounts of the struggles and coping mechanisms used by gig workers underscored the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing mental health challenges. This awareness will shape my approach to supporting mental health initiatives in my future career.
Challenges in Preparing Research Reports
While the process of preparing research reports was enlightening, it also presented several challenges. One significant hurdle was the vast amount of information available on mental health and wellbeing resources. The gig economy is a rapidly evolving field, and I found it challenging to identify reliable and relevant sources amidst the noise. Evaluating the credibility of various organizations and studies was crucial, but it required a considerable amount of time and critical thinking.
Another challenge was synthesizing the information into a coherent report that addressed the specific needs of gig workers. I had to balance data with practical recommendations, ensuring that my conclusions were not only evidence-based but also actionable. This process taught me the importance of clarity and conciseness in communication, particularly when dealing with complex subjects.
Furthermore, I realized the significance of considering diverse perspectives. The gig economy encompasses a wide range of industries, and the experiences of gig workers can vary significantly. This diversity necessitated a more nuanced understanding of mental health challenges, which sometimes felt overwhelming. However, overcoming these challenges improved my research skills and enhanced my ability to think critically about mental health issues.
Future Career Application
The knowledge and skills I developed throughout this course will undoubtedly inform my future career endeavors. As I aspire to work in a field related to mental health, understanding the specific challenges faced by gig workers will enable me to create targeted interventions and support systems. The insights gained will guide my approach to designing mental health programs that consider the unique pressures of gig work, fostering a more inclusive environment.
Moreover, the ability to conduct thorough research and analyze data critically will be invaluable in any future role I undertake. Whether working in a corporate setting or within non-profit organizations, these skills will aid in developing evidence-based policies and practices that prioritize mental health.
Additionally, this course has equipped me with communication skills that are essential for advocating for mental health awareness. Being able to articulate the needs of marginalized groups, such as gig workers, will be crucial in promoting policy changes and securing resources. I aim to leverage these skills to build partnerships with organizations focused on improving mental health for gig workers, thereby contributing to systemic change.