Sustaining the Sustainers

A message from Chris and Jake...

Last week, we had the privilege of working with the Chaplains and religious affairs NCOs that make up the military’s Religious Support Teams (RST) during their annual training conference.

These teams play a vital role in the military community. They accommodate religious needs, provide pastoral care, and advise commanders on the complexities of religion with regards to their personnel and mission. They are uniquely positioned to assist service members, their families, and other authorized personnel, serving as advocates for spiritual, moral, and emotional well-being and resiliency. 

Those who dedicate their lives to caring for others often experience compassion fatigue, which is the gradual drain that comes from continually carrying the struggles of those around them. The irony is that the people most skilled at lifting others up often find it hardest to give themselves the same care.

At Game On, we use a framework called Self, Others, and Purpose to reflect on how we build authentic connections and develop networks of support. The chaplains we worked with, like many leaders, are deeply committed to Others and clear about their Purpose. Yet, as is common in service-oriented roles, they often place themselves last. The reminder we shared is simple but powerful: taking time to focus on Self is not selfish, it is strategic. It builds the foundation that allows sustainers to keep showing up with energy, empathy, and resilience.

So how do we sustain the sustainers? Here are three takeaways:

1. Give Yourself Permission to Pause 

Chaplains, caregivers, and leaders often feel pressure to be “always on.” But rest is not weakness, it’s wisdom. Taking time for a walk, journaling, or simply unplugging is a way of refueling so you can re-engage with clarity and compassion.

2. Build Your Own Support Net 

You encourage others to lean on their community, so be sure to do the same for yourself. Whether it’s peers, mentors, or a trusted circle outside of work, create intentional spaces where you can share openly and be supported.

3. Set Healthy Boundaries Without Guilt 

Servant leaders often feel like saying “yes” is the only option. But boundaries protect both you and the people you serve. Learning to say “not right now” or to delegate when appropriate ensures that your capacity is preserved for the moments that matter most.