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Compassion for the Holidays
3 Questions to Ask
How many times have you heard yourself say, “I just have to ‘get through’ the holidays”? On our monthly Group Coaching Call, the Well-Being Coaches shared how they plan to support their Self-Leadership this holiday and the practice of Compassion was a common theme. Practicing compassion for yourself can help you enjoy your holiday instead…
Keep Reading...Your Well-Being Determines Your Wellness
When I ask nurses and nurse leaders, “How do you support Nurse Well-Being?” they often talk about their Wellness Programs, like LiveWell, Code Lavender, Peer Support, and Zen Rooms. These are all great approaches to support Nurse Wellness, but not necessarily Nurse Well-Being. Wellness and Well-Being are often used synonymously, and while they influence each…
Keep Reading...Could it Be That Easy?
One thing that triggers me, causing a disproportionate reaction to a situation, is any kind of technical issue. I admit to avoiding the necessary research, maintenance, and upgrading to prevent issues, fearing it will be too hard, expensive, or time-consuming. Case in point, I did not use my landline for business or personal for 18…
Keep Reading...The Gift of Compassion
When I fell on a hike last month dislocating and fracturing my right shoulder, I experienced many acts of compassion: The good samaritan who helped me to my car, drove me to the emergency room, and stayed with me until my husband arrived; The nurses and physicians in the ER who reduced my shoulder after…
Keep Reading...The Compassion of Curiosity
While flying last month, I could not help but notice the significant body art of my seatmate. She had floral images the length of her leg with beautiful lilies, roses, and cherry blossoms. My immediate (and judgmental) thought was, why would anyone want all that permanent ink on their body? Thankfully, I changed my mind…
Keep Reading...Surrender to the Rest
Healthcare organizations everywhere are concerned about the well-being of their employees and Atrium Health committed to doing something about it. Last month, 17 ICU nurses graduated from my 8-week Well-Being Coaching Pilot (WBCP) at Atrium Health, Pineville. The statistically significant results of the pilot reflect practicing Self-Leadership skills improve well-being by decreasing stress and burnout…
Keep Reading...5 Ways to Be Sick to Get Well
Last month I woke up to a sore throat, headache, and general exhaustion. That day, I proudly surrendered and spent the day on the couch. Day 2: I felt better, but still rested– just to be sure. Day 3: I thought I was over it and stayed upright working all day. Day 4: I crashed…
Keep Reading...How Grateful Are You?
Last week I was in ICU at the bedside of my dear friend with septicemia and endocarditis. She looked so small and fragile in that big bed, hooked up to multiple medicines and monitors with a constant entourage of providers poking, prodding, and asking numerous questions. I felt incredibly sad and anxious, with the severity…
Keep Reading...7 Acts of Loving-Kindness
I chose compassion, an intention from Your Mindful Year for my personal theme last month, knowing I would be challenged with a full traveling schedule. Compassion is practicing loving-kindness toward ourselves and others. Because what we focus on expands, while my intention was to treat myself kindly, I was unexpectedly showered with loving kindness from…
Keep Reading...Breathing Space to Lead
I was honored to be a part of the VHAtv Nursing Leadership Series a couple of months ago to discuss how mindfulness can help us be better leaders. As it turns out, the traits that contribute to excellence in leadership are the same qualities cultivated with mindfulness. They include: – Presence – Focus and creating…
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