This article was provided by TheraEx Staffing Service.
Nursing can be stressful, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. As a nurse in 2021, it’s even more important than usual to make every effort to stay optimistic. Optimism is connected to motivation, and patients deserve motivated nurses. While it may seem hopeless sometimes, there are plenty of things you can try to maintain a positive mental attitude necessary for proper and reliable care. The following tips not only apply to nurses but to just about any healthcare professional, from occupational therapists to medical technologists.
Have Gratitude
We understand that gratitude during these times may be hard to come by. However, no matter the circumstance, it is always possible and beneficial to see the good amongst the bad. Rather than focusing on the negatives, remind yourself of the things that make you happy and hopeful. Think about how thankful you are for your fellow nurses working hard alongside you. Recognize that you are saving countless lives every day just by doing your job. Pay attention to the good things that happen during your shift – like making a patient smile or receiving a compliment from a hospital staff member. It’s always helpful to keep a journal of all these positive thoughts. If you write down three things you are grateful for every day, this way of thinking will become more natural, and you will start to dwell less on the negatives.
Surround Yourself with Optimism
It’s no surprise that if you surround yourself with optimistic people, you’re more likely to be optimistic yourself. While complaining with other disgruntled coworkers can feel cathartic in the moment, it doesn’t boost your mood like genuine positivity does. If you are talking to an unhappy coworker, try not to let negativity dominate the conversation. Make an effort to engage in positive topics. However, we understand that this is certainly easier said than done, especially during the pandemic. So, if you find yourself surrounded by negative coworkers, the next time you’re on break, choose to take a walk. Limit your time with negative people and maximize it with those who exhibit a positive outlook.
The same thing goes for when you’re on social media at work and at home. Follow uplifting accounts in order to not to get bogged down by the drama that exists on social media. At TheraEx Staffing, we try to spread positivity through our social media – by posting inspiring nursing stories or funny nursing jokes.
Focus on Yourself
We know that Covid-19 has put a huge strain on our healthcare and rehabilitation facilities. With these facilities overwhelmed by the massive influx of patients, nurses and other healthcare staff have had to endure stress on another level. And when your job involves taking care of others, it’s easy to prioritize others’ needs above your own. As a nurse, you need to fulfill your own basic needs in order to effectively care for others and avoid compromising your immunity. If you are running on little food and sleep, you can’t expect to perform your best. Taking the time and effort to care for yourself isn’t selfish – it’s necessary for functioning properly and reliably. Don’t feel guilty if you need to take a quick break or eat a snack. Don’t be afraid to reach out to support initiatives for mental health help too. One positive outcome of the current chaos is that it is motivating healthcare leaders to start prioritizing self-care, which is certainly a step in the right direction.
Travel Nursing with TheraEx Staffing Services
While optimism can be hard for nurses to find these days, understand that you have options. Consider joining the world of travel nursing with the help of TheraEx Staffing. Our staffing agency works to match nursing and allied health professionals with facilities where they can shine. You’ll be able to work 13-week assignments in locations all around the country, forwarding your career and giving hope to communities that need your services. Contact TheraEx today to find the perfect facility that can keep you optimistic and successful.
We hope you found this article helpful. Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Have the assignment secured but need housing? Click here to view our housing page.
