Lose weight. Exercise more. Learn a new hobby. Write to friends. Take time for myself. Sound familiar?
The New Year has a way of making us take a critical look at our lives. There always seems to be something to improve. Most of us are well-intended in our desire to modify ourselves once the holiday decorations are packed away, yet, I don’t have a clue as to why these efforts don’t ever seem to persevere into the spring.
In speculating, it may be that we assume goals that are too lofty, don’t plan accordingly for the needed behavioral change, or get impatient with our lack of progress. It seems easier to throw up our hands and lament, "it’s just too hard."
I would like to propose a strategy that addresses self-care, namely, recognizing the difference you make in your practice as an oncology nurse. Here’s what you do:
Get an 8 x 11 manila envelope. Decorate it if you like, with a colorful depiction of the phrase “2013 Notes to Self.” Place it in a highly visible, prominent place, such as near the phone, where you do your bills, your bedside stand near the clock, or on your desk. On the outside of the envelope, affix a letter envelope with small blank pieces of paper in it. At the minimum of once a week, reflect on what you did to improve a patient or family member’s quality of life during a work day. Respond to open-ended queries such as:
- What I did best today was...
- I made a difference because I...
- I am proud that I was able to...
- My advocacy resulted in...
Date the small piece of paper and write a brief note to yourself. Next year at this time, you will have at least fifty examples of your professional prowess and a chance to reflect on the New Year that approaches.
This form of reminiscence therapy is a powerful reminder of your exemplary professional practice. This type of activity is NOT self-aggrandizement. On the contrary, it represents taking a snapshot of the difference you make in your patients’ and families lives. We all need to reflect, remember, and rejoice in our talents and skills.
Tweet This
6 
