Invariably when you meet someone for the first time you’re asked, “What do you do?” The response is automatic, “I’m a nurse.”
Afterall, you’ve been conditioned to always show-up as a nurse. And you’re probably always on call in one way or another. Yet your profession doesn’t reveal everything there is to know about you.
Your strengths run deeper than your professional identity.
A Nurse is A Nurse, Right?
I recall nursing career advice from a respected professor — “always remember what makes you unique.”
Her cautionary tale included something about envisioning myself as a square and safeguarding the corners. “Stay aware — there will be others who’ll try to erode your corners through their words and behaviors.”
Essentially, she said my vision for nursing practice and advancement would be challenged. Others would prefer I conform to their version of an ideal nurse. After all, a nurse is a nurse, right?
This guidance seemed critical to surviving and navigating the nursing profession. It was confirmed soon after.
An administrator made a statement, “We could train monkeys to do what nurses do.” Corner shaving in action.
What Strengths Frame the Corners of Your Square?
The aspects of me I consider unique corners are my assets. I’m persistent, an all-in listener, a puzzle solver and a champion of others — positive and optimistic.
Even so there are times I struggle with being my own optimist. Over time and through habits gone unchecked it happens. My innate strength goes unconscious — offline. While the strength is always there, sometimes I must rely on reactivation through structure and reminders.
Have you become caste in a mold of how others see you as nurse? How much of your uniqueness has gone unconscious?
I would love to hear from you. Join in with your thoughts and experience.
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