Kind Words

As I have written about in previous posts, I have been taking on more leadership roles at the hospital. I am on a large hospital-wide committee, and am the chairperson for my unit council. I also sit on the leadership team with the director, managers, and other unit leaders. In high school and college, I served in roles like "secretary" and "treasurer", but don't recall ever being the "president". This takes myself out of my comfort zone, so have often shied away from those type of responsibilities. Yesterday, I went to my "hospital committee" and actually was an active participant in the discussion. I mentioned that my director has gone out of her way to help me feel comfortable in my new role. The Chief Nursing Officer was present at the meeting, and told me that this woman is an EXCELLENT leader and takes time to do those kinds of things all the time. She wanted to make sure I passed my thoughts on to her. So, I sent an email to her last night (which is how we do most of our communication). What followed from there was a wonderful email communication of kind words and compliments. Like the quote at the top of my blog says "Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." ~Leo Buscaglia

Here is the "gist" of our email "conversation":
Me: I want to let you know that your name came up during the ____Meeting today... I gave an example of how often you have taken the time to send an email telling me I am doing a good job as Chair and to keep up the good work. This really has meant a lot to me, especially since this is my first time in a leadership role like this since I was in high school! I'm not extremely confident and your kind words have often come when I needed some positive reinforcement. (The CNO) wanted to make sure I have told you how much I appreciate you taking the time to do those little things that make a big difference (she too is impressed by your efforts to connect with staff in ways like this). I try to at least reply with a "thank you", but just in case I have forgotten a time or two, here is a BIG thank you (and not JUST because the CNO told me to!).

Thank you for ALL you do. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, even if you don't always get the thanks you deserve.

Her: WOW! What a wonderful way to start my day! Your words of affirmation are MUCH appreciated, and I thank you for taking the time to share them with me! I think I will save this and read it again when I have a day when I wonder if I am making a difference! Thanks again for your kind and encouraging words.

Me: I am glad that I helped you start your day off well! You do an amazing job of connecting with all the staff and deserve to hear how great you are every once in a while (hopefully you hear it MUCH more often than that!). You are a wonderful role model for a leader.

Her: Thank you again! You have a wonderful future ahead of you as a leader, whether you choose a leadership role that is formal or informal. leadership role!

What a difference we made to each other today, just by "saying" what was in our hearts. I always try to say nice things to people whenever I think them, and enjoy paying people compliments (even if it sounds REALLY corny coming out!). I know first-hand how much of a difference those little things can make! Today's "email conversation" with the director was a GREAT way to recover from the criticism I received on Monday. While it hurts that I don't always feel like I "belong" on my floor, compliments from people who "really matter" means a great deal.

Too bad I can't say the REST of my day was "fabulous". It was pretty hectic and I still get kind of anxious when my patients are not doing that well. It is pretty exhausting to feel powerless when my "job" is to make the kids feel better. Even though it isn't "my" kid, my heart just aches when it seems I am failing them because nothing I do is helping (gosh, I wonder what their moms feel like!). There were a lot of things going on, and I guess all I can do is my best...and hope the next nurse can take over where I left off (24 hour job, right?!).

Well, this is way longer, but also WAY less enlightening that I originally planned. In a nutshell, today had some special moments, but also a couple I'd like to forget (but probably won't be able to since I tend to dwell on mistakes and coulda/woulda/shouldas). It's late and I need to get a good night's sleep. Party at my house tomorrow night...cleaning party at my house tomorrow during the day! Good night.