GBNC

In Primary Care at BWH we start every leadership meeting with an intention.  Nancy Matthews shared this quote this morning and it inspired me to express my gratitude for this group and the twice weekly smile that comes into my email.  Thank you all for reminding me of the joy in my nursing practice, particularly during a global pandemic.  I am grateful for the continued support of this amazing group of nurses. 

Most nurses can recall a moment in time or an aspect of their work that made them proud, touched them and was rewarding or memorable to them.  In a 2020 study of 324 nurses, Haizlip (et.al) found nurses who experience higher levels of mattering reported they also find more meaning in their work; felt more supported by their peers, managers and organizations; and were more engaged in their work.

When you experience moments of mattering, take note.  Think about what occurred.  Notice who was involved. Focus on your accomplishments.  Consider your contributions and the value you added.  Acknowledge what made you feel valued….Savor those moments because it is those moments that make all the challenging ones worth it.

Self-Care for New and Student Nurses- (p. 426-427)

Remember and take pride in all the ways you make a difference and matter!

I recently came across this reflective journaling exercise in Sharon Salzberg’s ‘Real Happiness at Work’ book.  It helped me re-connect and re-charge my joy, hope you find it helpful too!