The theme of the Journey to Psychological Wellness (A.P.P.L.E.) this year is "Permission to be Human". It means accepting the limitations of life and facing negative emotions and challenges with courage. The three elements of "Permission to be Human" are "Practise Mindfulness", "Show Compassion" and "Accept Limitations".

Police officers have a strong sense of mission and passion for work, which will enhance professionalism and work efficiency. They, however, like everyone else, experience stress and challenges in their lives. Some can hardly accept any flaws or setbacks, posing undue hardship to them. Non-acceptace and suppression of emotions might eventually lead to stress.

"Lesson of acceptance"

For Chief Superintendent of Personnel Services and Staff Relations (CSP PS&SR) Branch Cecilia Ng, police officers have to strike a balance between working hard and "accepting ourselves". After suffering from cancer in 2007, Cecilia experienced first hand how hard it was to accept the limitations of her body and ability. Soon after adjusting her perspectives, Cecilia began feeling grateful for others' care and support during her battle with the illness. The illness was a blessing in disguise, teaching her a valuable "lesson of acceptance". Despite her tight work schedule, she grasped every opportunity to slow down and listen to her body's signals. Instead of getting agitated and impatient when she has to wait for the lift or in a queue, she now gives herself a "mindful pause" for her own care.

As a police officer, Cecilia considers work-life balance and self-care very important for one's career. A highly demanding person might consider "adjusting a bit". This means turning down requests that are beyond one's ability. In her spare time, Cecilia tries to "let go" all jobs and engage in something she enjoys most, like jogging or a good meal with others.

As a senior commanding officer, Cecilia realises that her colleagues possess different abilities. That's why supervisors have to "accept that everyone is not perfect", and it is important "to accommodate their limitations and appreciate their abilities so that they would be motivated to do their best".

Cecilia also treasures self-reflection and self-awareness. In dealing with other people, she applies the golden rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you". So Cecilia will apologise for her mistakes. This is part of self-acceptance. Cecilia encourages Force members to face challenges bravely, support one another and, most importantly, do not hesitate to seek help when necessary.

Allowing yourself to be human

It is a mistake to take acceptance as resignation. Acceptance means accepting there are inherent limitations to "being human" and trying to do our best within the limits. Cecilia now enjoys running the 10km event even though she can hardly run as fast and far as she did before her illness. When you start "allowing yourself to be human", you will give others the permission "to be human as well". This will bring invaluable benefits, including less stress, better relationships and performances.

A police officer does not have to be a "superman". Try to pause and listen to one's own needs amidst life's vicissitudes, and remain open to an imperfect but fuller life!