Shift Change Coaching Caring Series

This month we bring you the introduction to the caring series. The NC Nurses Association’s new vision for NC nurses is “Caring for others, Caring for each other and Caring for ourselves.” Shift Change Coaching is taking part in creating and implementing this vision. We teach you what caring is really about!

People go into nursing to make a difference by caring for others. The problem arises when they forget to care for each other and themselves, in addition to caring for others. Low morale frequently results from caring only for others. Nurses lose the passion for what they love and the energy to continue nursing. The Shift Change Coaching Group’s solution to improving morale focuses on the intrinsic needs of nurses. First, we coach nurses to understand and control fear by creating awareness and strategies to shift from a fearful mindset to one of purposeful awareness and positive action.

Fear paralyzes, action moves us forward. In addition, we help nurses shift in other areas to build a strong foundation for this action. One of the keys to making this shift is going from selflessness to self-care. The next step is to reconnect with their passion and purpose in life. Continuing, we explore work/life balance and design strategies to embrace balance. Finally, through appreciative inquiry, we empower nurses to see and focus on the positive aspects of work and life. By shifting their thinking and building a firm foundation, nurses are better able to care for others and thrive. This enables them to be the happy nurses that create the happy patients and a successful organization.

Happy nurses pay attention to the patients’ needs and “go the extra mile”. Low morale is expensive due to decreased productivity, high turnover, and an increase in time wasted in gossip and complaining. By addressing the nurses’ intrinsic needs, the obstacles of fear, low productivity and high turnover are alleviated. By implementing the keys to improving morale, nurses and their organizations flourish – even in times of crisis. Nurses must be empowered to give the best care to others by giving them the permission and the tools to first care for themselves and each other.

We hope you have found value in this month’s commentary on caring. Next month we will bring you the second article in our series on CARING, “Caring for Each Other.”

Best regards,

Merrily Sable, RN, BSN and Betsy Smith, PhD

Hire the Shift Change Coaching Group to train you and your staff in the Six Keys to On Fire Leadership and the Six Keys to Nursing Success. Build the foundation to promote excellence in your leadership and that of your organization. Convenient teleclass (conference line calls) or in-person speaking or workshop formats are available. Schedule now as our remaining 2010 is filling up fast!

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