Feeling Unappreciated? Here’s What You Can Do Right Now

Let’s face it, a lot of nurses feel like they could use a little encouragement, encouragement at work, encouragement at home, maybe even some positive feedback from a patient. It is one of the top stressors that nurses report, feeling unsupported or unappreciated at work.

It can be very discouraging, especially when you are dedicated to improving the wellness of others.

There are, of course, different approaches to handling this predicament, the most obvious being the implementation of systemic change. The bad news is, this is going to take some time and resources. The good news is, there are additional approaches that can alleviate the discouragement resulting from underappreciation, approaches that DO NOT take time and resources.

The best part is this one feels good right away. 

Give encouragement to a colleague.

 (extra points if it’s more than just a “good job”)

Really take a minute to observe the people around you, the nurses who come to work even when they have big issues going on at home, the ones who are cheerful or have a great sense of humor, the ones who don’t complain or are always there when you need someone to complain to, the ones who are inspiring with how smart they are, the ones who are so kind and compassionate, the ones who always have new ideas, the ones who can take on the conflict when maybe you can’t, the ones who are willing to share the new thing that they learned, the ones who make you laugh or stay with you when you cry.

Make a decision to encourage one nurse, maybe give it some thought ahead of time and think of someone that you really appreciate or admire. Start watching the people around you (not in a creepy way) and pay attention to their strengths, to the unique goodness they bring to the table. 

The benefit of this is twofold. First, it draws your attention to the positive aspects of your coworkers and your job. Sure, they aren’t always perfect but we don’t need help to see shortcomings. This is a strategy, after all, so it will take a pinch of effort. Second, you will get the same satisfaction and fulfillment that you receive from helping a patient who really needs you, one that you have really impacted, by helping a fellow nurse.

We can wait for the system to change or we can be an active part of the solution, and active part of systemic change. It does make a difference to encourage your colleagues and be encouraged by them. It builds a sense of connection which is directly correlated with an improvement in compassion fatigue. Feeling more connected can build your sense of team and prevent burnout. Don’t wait for someone else to do what you aren’t willing to do yourself.

Can you see the good in the people you work with? Can you have the courage to tell them? Can you be a nurse to the other nurses who need you, who need someone to see and support them?

Trust me, it’s a quick and easy way to feel better. Who better to help nurses heal than another nurse?

Be the change.

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If you are feeling too overwhelmed, even if you can't put your finger on why, email me to schedule a free consult. Just the initial hour can give you so much clarity. We will pick a time that works for you. Megan@NursingBeyondTheJob.com