Nurses are typically known for being givers. We give, give and give to others at the expense of ourselves often. As humans, most of us are incredibly hard on ourselves, becoming our own worst self-critic. This brings us up short, believing that we are not good enough, smart enough, pretty or handsome enough… the list could go on and on. Our brains and the circumstances of our lives often cause us extremes in suffering, so much so that we lose faith in ourselves and our abilities. Another truth...

Spring is here at least according to the birds. Listen to the birds, singing their song in the early morning hours. They are often singing long before we wake up to face the day ahead of us. Collectively, they make beautiful music together, as they each do their own thing, sing their own tune. We can take lessons from the birds.

Say the title of this blog out loud. Do you feel the difference energetically as you pronounce the words? I do. What I do know for sure is that a shift in words can instantly create a different outcome in your life and in your work.

As humans we are 100% responsible for how we show up in the world day in and day out. Many of us however don’t even think about the impact that we are having on others, our departments and all of our relationships. We are just going through the motions of day to day living often reacting to our circumstances. It is time to become more proactive, more intentional, and more anticipatory in how we show up for life.

How often do you battle with should thinking? “I should do this or I should do that.” The truth is that I battle should thinking on a regular basis. One example of this is that my “to do list” is so long that there is no way to complete it, EVER! Then add on the “shoulds” of the holiday season. Ugh just ugh!

Gratitude is defined as “the quality of being thankful, readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.” When one is experiencing gratitude, true gratitude the heart is full.

What dreams are on your heart? Do you even know? Are you listening closely to your heart’s desires? Many people I know are running so fast on the gerbil wheel of life responsibilities that they are completely detached from their heart’s dreams. This day to day busyness called life keeps us often distant from our dreams. There is so much to do and so little time to do it. How could I possibly fit one more thing in my life is a theme I have heard many times by my family, colleagues and frie...

Have you ever heard, thought to yourself, or even said, “morale around here just sucks”? I have. I have heard it multiple times during my 40 plus years in healthcare. I have heard it in many different forms and in many different places. The words may vary slightly but the intent is very clear.Today, let’s gain some clarity about the ownership of morale within our healthcare system. Perhaps you can visualize some of these ideas and examples in your department.Here is the definit...

A few months ago I had the privilege of attending a three day gospel festival at the Crystal Grand in WI Dells. One of the talented groups was Ernie Haase and Signature Sound. They shared the song “Keep On Keeping On”. I remember how moved my soul was listening to those lyrics and thinking to myself in that moment that nurses really need to hear this message right now.

We all deserve and need a time out sometimes. Several things come to mind for me when I think about this topic. Today, however I am going to focus on two ideas. First, we most definitely need a time out when we are emotionally triggered. More on this in a bit. Secondly, we unquestionably need to take a time out from the daily grind of our multiple roles and responsibilities.