One of the things I have realized is that while still being somewhat new to nursing leadership I also have a lot of moments of aha to share. Recently I have connected with other new nursing leaders and as they ask questions and realize the nuances of the role I have caught myself saying “welcome to the other side”. I have found a lot of bigger picture realizations in nursing leadership. For me personally, working a the bedside I may not have always known all the things that go on behind the scenes from the top. And truthfully I am not sure I always had leaders or organizations who promoted the transparency for me to understand.
Thankfully, I have had the honor of working for and connecting with some pretty amazing people. People in leadership who really have a heart for what they do, but also a big heart for the people they do it for. My mom has often asked me why I have chose. This path. Saying, “didn’t you want to be a nurse to help people and patients? Be at the bedside?” Initially, yes, but what I have realized is that the people who care for other people need so much support. And by being there for them, helping them learn, connect the dots, make their jobs easier any way I can, has been more of my calling. In addition, I value the impact I have in the ripple effect. While i may not always be the one doing direct patient care (although I have the privilege to do that from time to time too), the things I have done in the recent years as a leader have had lashing impacts- ripple effects in individuals careers, policies, and culture.
Recently, culture of healthcare has been in distress. With national strikes and every changing policies, legislations, and new standards- it can be challenging to be in healthcare. My hope in the work that I do is to bring joy and a new passion for what it is we do in service to others.
So, as new leaders emerge, admittedly not far behind me, I hope to help the way people have led the way for me. The mentorship, connections and growth I have experienced even in the last few years has changed me not only at work, but in my home life as well. I would like to continue to support the profession of nursing any way I can. It is a profession that I love, and a profession that has given me so much as well. Connecting new leaders to the “other side” is definitely another aha movement for me, and keeping my mission in mind, I also want to remind new leaders that there are still acceptable boundaries. And work life balance has been one of mine. In this phase of life I am appreciative of a role that supports the care of my family and my little one. But I also recognize how important it is to prioritize my own care and have admittedly fallen into some old habits again of not prioritizing the things I want.
That’s why I am glad I have amazing people to support me. Connections to help me a grow. And a framework, a community and a method to finding my balance again. Rebalancing for my harmony. And basically keeping myself grounded and sane.
If you would like to learn more I have a free assessment on my page.. just scroll down to free assessment and you can see what opportunities may exist for your life balance.
Have a good weekend! 💜
https://myoola.oolalife.com/jillianleern
