“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” ― Eleanor Roosevelt
In Japan they call it "ikigai". Japanese people believe that the sum of small joys in everyday life results in a more fulfilling life as a whole. Furthermore, no matter where you are in the world, the sentiment is the same, yet so many have trouble arriving to this extremely sought after destination of life's purpose. Nurse's often say that it has been through their calling into the profession that has given them better clarity about their sense of life's purpose.
As Nurse's Week and Month settles in, many are spreading their campaigns on raising the voice of nursing and recognizing the contributions made through their careers. No one would argue that the profession of nursing has not been consistently and adequately documented as an integral part of the healthcare system. Welcomely, things are changing, for the good. Nurse's Week and Month is an exceptional opportunity to show appreciation.
The year 2023 offers up great reports on how nursing is grappling with the many pressing issues affecting its' workforce and policy. But most importantly, the toll on mental health.
As nursing leadership takes steps toward solutions,many nurses are using their skillsets to create and innovate workspaces of their own, which undoubtedly gives them a piece of mind and control of their own destiny, a sense of purpose.
But for every nurse or person searching for a sense of purpose, it will be different as it is not a simple revelation. Consisting of many stages and phases, purpose will involve the good and adverse experiences that only life can provide---tailored of course specifically for each individual. This is one of the divine wonders of finding purpose.
Although experiences will be many and complex, it is the one of compassion that will yield the greatest lessons and gifts. Compassion is often realized in real-time as a professional nurse then spread daily to patients and their families. It is a by product of moral courage and reflection and is considered one of the magical wands nurses carry.
It is by far the most important tool for finding your purpose as a nurse.
When all is said and done, the goal of life's purpose is to grow, learn and pass it on. Here are a couple of ideas for finding clarity along your journey:
Share your story. Talk about your successes and your failures. People want to know how you got to where you are. Your story can be an inspiration to many.
Find balance. Self-care is a priority. While our profession is important, nothing is more important than our physical and mental health.
Good intentions. In order to see your way clear, you must be authentic about your vision. Remember, what you put out, you get back.
Recognize others. If you see a talent, recognize it. Copying someone else's journey will distract from your own. But having character separates the wheat from the chaff.
Finding a sense of purpose in trying times can be challenging, but there are many advantages to arming yourself with the right tools to succeed. Happy Nurse's Week and Month.