b'DAYTODAYBALANCE DIGITAL AND INPERSON CONNECTIONS Even in our fastpaced, digital world, humans need connection. Its tempting to manage through quick taps on a screen that replace facetoface interactions, but constant urgency without personal connection fuels stress, burnout, and disengagement. These five strategies from Psychology Today help foster a healthy, productive balance: 1. Lead with values: Lead with empathy and responsibility. Foster a culture where choices are guided by values, not just speed. 2. Prioritize facetoface communication: Distinguish between urgent and nonurgent issues. For complex discussions, encourage inperson or video interactions to reinforce connections and reduce misunderstandings. 3. Set aside deep work blocks: Dedicate time for uninterrupted, deep work to encourage strategic thinking and creativity.4. Reward human connection: Choose inperson or video meetings for sensitive matters to encourage a positive, supportive work environment. Reinforce the importance of relational skills alongside traditional performance metrics. 5. Model worklife boundaries: Encourage your team to disconnect after work. By modeling healthy boundaries, you show that wellbeing and presence are valued. HOW NONPROFITS CAN NAVIGATE RETENTION HURDLES NonProfit Pro defines five key areas where human services organizations should focus their efforts to navigate retention hurdles: 1. Improve company culture Be transparent and communicate regularly and openly with your employees. Promote a team atmosphere and remind them that what they do has purpose and that they are part of something bigger.2. Emphasize mentorship Consider implementing a mentoring program to strengthen employeeleadership relationships and enhance employee development and succession planning. Mentoring provides a sense of accomplishment for both mentor and mentee and strengthens loyalty to the organization.3. Recognize Recognition shows your employees that their contributions lead to success within the organization and that they are valued. Recognition is a powerful motivator and leads to improved performance.4. Prioritize worklife balance Employees are placing more emphasis on worklife balance. Regularly review workloads, encourage employees to take breaks, lead by example, and review what perks you offer your team. 5. Offer flexibility Whether it be with flexible work hours or work arrangements, being accommodating improves retention, employee loyalty, and engagement. 52 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025'