All humans want to feel cared about. We are in the business of caring or at least I would like to think so in healthcare. Care is part of the root word in healthcare. Establishing a culture of caring takes focus, intention and meaningful action through the following C’s.

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miquel Ruiz is a must read. As humans we create so much of our “own suffering.” The agreements set forth in this book outline a code of conduct that can transform our lives leading to more freedom, joy and happiness. Based on what I am hearing lately from nurses I am confident that we could all use more of that in our lives right now.

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...