From infusion to evolution
I am often asked how I could write infusion therapy textbooks for 25 years, and then write about work/life balance. How is it possible to shift paradigms so dramatically and connect the dots? I am often asked how I could possibly transition from the world of sick-care and chronic disease to the wonderful world of wellness. What was the trigger that I was out of balance, and that I needed to do something about it? And, how, after so many years, could I evolve into a wellness professional and seek balance for myself?
My story could easily be your story. Working 100+ hours per week, and well aware of the toll that this schedule placed on my own body/mind/family/relationships, I knew that something had to change. And, it was my global work colleagues who introduced me to the concept of work/life balance.Picture this. During the month of August, hospitals in the former Soviet Union traditionally close to allow time for the staff to visit a remote Sanatoria for a 24-day respite. Who do you know in this country that offers 24 days of vacation time to all employees, regardless of status, and then mandates that they actually take the time for a much-needed rest? Maternity leave in that part of the world is a minimum of two years, during which your job is held for you! Who do you know in this country that offers extended parental leave time equal to two years? If you are like me, no one measures up to those standards. And while I was not considering parental leave for myself, nor would I ever stay in one place long enough for a 24-day rest, I did start to think about working less and playing more. I was intrigued by the concept of a life in balance and what that might look like.
Picture this. During the month of August, hospitals in the former Soviet Union traditionally close to allow time for the staff to visit a remote Sanatoria for a 24-day respite. Who do you know in this country that offers 24 days of vacation time to all employees, regardless of status, and then mandates that they actually take the time for a much-needed rest? Maternity leave in that part of the world is a minimum of two years, during which your job is held for you! Who do you know in this country that offers extended parental leave time equal to two years? If you are like me, no one measures up to those standards. And while I was not considering parental leave for myself, nor would I ever stay in one place long enough for a 24-day rest, I did start to think about working less and playing more. I was intrigued by the concept of a life in balance and what that might look like.
Perhaps you have had the same experience…perhaps you realize that your work and home life are intertwined and that there is no longer time for you and those near and dear to you. Perhaps you have thought, “What if I could take that much-needed vacation, attend that graduation, or just relax?”
The Art of Reinvention
I chose to reinvent myself as a wellness professional with a focus on health prevention and promotion, rather than on managing chronic disease and acute illness. I thought about the words of Harold Whitman, “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” I decided to come alive, enjoy life, family, career, and more – and to write about the experience.
It’s time to reinvent a new us that will take us through our second adulthood. I have done it, and so can you. So who are you? Who do you want to be when you grow up – a question that my kids often ask of me? This time, you get to decide.
Use these steps to relieve the stressors that are holding you back:
Decide what’s most important in your life.
Identify three areas of your life that are most important; for me, the three include (1) health and well-being, (2) family, and (3) professional work. If health is a priority for you, take time to achieve it. Eat well, be well, do well – begin an exercise program, if you have not already done so.
Know your purpose.
Life purpose is what gives meaning to our lives and a reason why we are here on earth. Each individual life has a natural reason for being. Think about what brings you the greatest joy in your life, and pursue it.
Set goals.
To be successful in our lives, we must set goals. So, know your purpose, and then set goals. In order to be a goal, it must first be specific and measurable.
Know your Limitations
We just do not know how to say ‘no.’ In B is for Balance, I talk about ‘no’ being a complete sentence, and it is okay to learn how to use the word to bring balance to our lives. If something does not fall within your priorities, it is okay to say the magic word, ‘no.’ You must avoid taking on more than you can possibly handle. Negotiate for workplace balance by knowing yourself and your limitations. “No” can be the best time management tool that you have!
How to Seek Help
Successful, balanced professionals are not afraid to ask for help. Everyone needs help from time to time, and reaching out is an admirable skill. Be acutely aware of the stressors in your schedule and in your life. Know thyself first! Manage yourself, and take advantage of counseling, coaches, professional peers, mentors and more.
Knowing my limitations allowed me to transition from the sick-care industry to the wellness industry. I connect those dots by using my nursing platform to share the wonderful world of wellness – one that is available to you as well, with you live a life in balance.
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