The idea of being recognized for performing a job above the level of the expected competencies is relatively common. In the general business world, it seems as if any Joe Schmoe can sharpen a pencil and end up with an extra framed certificate for the wall and a congratulatory slap on the back. In the … Continue reading Forget the flowers… I’d rather be a cactus. Analyzing the flawed system of recognizing nursing skill.
Passion is a motivator. Pursuing a passion is supposed to be one of the greatest accomplishments in a lifetime. When reading obituaries it is common to read about what passions helped to shape and fulfill the life of the person lost. Passion is what forces action, compassion, and change. However, it is important to remember … Continue reading Burnout is a bitch.
In a strange twist, my own vandalization has been vandalized itself.
There are days that are more emotionally taxing than others. We've all been in an emotionally vulnerable frame of mind that leaves us exhausted. For me, today was one of those days. Emotional vulnerability is not something I am comfortable with. I prefer to keep my emotions tight-lipped. Honestly, I'd rather have a colonoscopy than … Continue reading Tonight I cried in front of my kids.
You find a seat, pull out your notebook, new pen, and you are stocked with caffeine. You are ready to absorb knowledge. Then the scenario begins to shift. The speaker begins to introduce themselves... on a personal level. You take a deep breath and prepare yourself for what is to come. Then it happens, you … Continue reading Ice Breakers: The biggest nope of all.
I want you to know that I carry your words in my heart.
I'm treading water at best.
I have never been a person who sought out being a member of a peer group. I identify as an extrovert loner (shut up, that's a thing). Every aspect of the nursing profession has challenged my typical social position. Once I entered nursing school I was forced into becoming a member of a very elite … Continue reading The Nursing Club: Trial by fire.
It was a soft Sunday afternoon when my 3 year old was napping and the Wisconsin summer sun seemed extra warm. Not harsh, just warm. There was a breeze that was so perfect. It was the breeze you only ever read about in a book, never really experiencing (or remembering) the perfection of what the … Continue reading A little gardening saved me.
Written by Shasta Westaby Edited by RNplusmommy May 16th, 2017 was a day that turned the lives of so many upside down. Seriously, a damn tornado flipped my community. 83-miles of damaged homes, barns, crops, woods, businesses. It was and is overwhelming. I won't minimize my anxiety over storm season but I get to remember … Continue reading A tornado was my wind of change: Seriously, it took a freaking tornado.
Tired Not Dead 