Self care before Patient Care

As a nurse, I have learned the importance of self-care before patient care.   In order to care for others you have to put yourself first.  Replenish your energy, spirit/ attitude, and de-stress!  You cannot allow your busy schedule, and family to make you become a victim of self-neglect. We see this self-neglect sometimes in our patients- the diabetic who eats pie, and drinks Kool-Aid - while awaiting a double amputation!! ( & despite having   patient counseling, dietitians, and  coaching)  There are plenty of examples of self - neglect in nurses.  Nursing is not an easy job-  especially if you do shift work, or work long hours in an emotionally draining and physically demanding job.  It's hard to pre-plan our meals for the week, it's a challenge to schedule gym time for ourselves when there is so much other stuff that needs to get done.  How can we(nurses) be good examples when we are not following our own advice?   The answer is more complex and universal.  We are all busy working, taking care of family', homes,  squeezing in socializing  and  hopefully hobbies,

 Put yourself first.  I learned the hard way-  yes I can work doubles. Hell, I had two jobs working 12 days in a row with 9  of those days being back to back 12's. The money was not worth it. I began to rethink my life.



 Take Away: 

-  put yourself first-   you are the only person who looks after you!  NO one else will do it for you!
-  Know your limits
- Ask : Is this inline with what I want my life to be? Is this in line with my life purpose and goals?
-  The 'Why" ............ why are you doing it? what is the end goal?  Do the ends justify the means?
-  Do you have time to do the things that matter to you?  Things that make you happy?
                - If not re-evaluate and re-prioritize.