thankful. Some of these include: improved relationships, better sleep,
and improvements in both physical and psychological health. Make
gratitude part of your routine; at the end of your day, focus on
something good that happened. It could be how patients benefitted
from your skills, how the team worked well together or simply that
you had a laugh with a colleague. Take advantage of opportunities to
let others know when you are grateful for their help.
Learn something new to cope with stress. In a September 2018
article in the Harvard Business Review (osmag.net/HK6ccU),
researchers discussed their finding that learning activities were more
successful than relaxation in buffering workplace stress. Detrimental
effects such as negative emotions, unethical behavior and burnout
can all be barriers to productivity and enthusiastic patient care. Some
ideas: Why not start a journal group? Have nursing staff or physicians
identify research relevant to the work at your center. How about a
TED Talk club? Ask staff to send you their favorites, and forward one
to the group each week.
Be present. In a technocracy on full speed, it's no wonder that
"mindfulness" has become such a buzzword. With its roots in
ancient Buddhist meditation, mindfulness can be as simple as being
present in what you are doing, exactly when you are doing it. A great
time to practice mindfulness is when you're washing your hands. The
next time you do, notice the temperature of the water and how it feels
on your skin. Feel one hand on the other as you clean all surfaces.
When you notice your attention moving away from the task, take a
slow, deep breath and refocus. That's living in the moment!
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