“I want to thank Ralph, the nurse assigned to me. He was the best nurse I've ever had and was able to start an IV without reducing me to tears, but instead had me laughing. That's never happened before. Just before midnight (I arrived before noon that day, I think), he made sure I had something to eat, since I was truly hungry. His attention and humor until the time I was transferred to Oncology, reduced any anxiety on my part.”
Patient in Michigan Emergency Department
Opportunity for Reflection
Individual or group reflection (5-6 minutes)
The nurse in our story above brought a humor, skillfulness and a listening ear to the bedside. Ralph also embodied our Ascension Value of Reverence. His approach made a lasting impact on the patient. When reading this story we get the feeling that Ralph is energized by offering care to his patients.
In this reflection we invite you to explore the different ways your energy is affected by your work.
Step 1. What gives you energy in your work?
What is life-giving about your work? Use the two-and-a-half minute timer below for writing or silent reflection.
Groups may use timer for breakout discussion. Deep Listening guidelines are below to aid in group facilitation.
Step 2. What drains you in your work?
What drains you in your work? Use the two-and-a-half minute timer below for writing or silent reflection.
As you reflect, allow reactions, emotional responses, and feelings as they arise and try not to be judgmental of yourself and others.
Groups may use timer for breakout discussion. Deep Listening guidelines are below to aid in group facilitation.
Step 3. Share your findings with a friend or colleague.
Sharing our experiences with others can help us build connections to one another. Storytelling is an intimate and crucial part of building community.
Groups may gather in a circle and take turns sharing with and listening to one another.
Opportunity for Connection
Consider inviting a team member to reflect
Asking these questions of your team members is a great way to build community and practice your deep listening skills. Click here for a refresher on the six skills of deep listening (L.I.S.T.E.N.).
1. Let Go: Make room so that you have the capacity to listen.
- Set aside any distractions necessary to be present with others.
- Take a deep breath and center yourself.
2. Insight: Welcome your natural insight and wisdom.
- Offer the question: What gives you energy in your work?
- Relinquish the need to problem solve, over share, or prove you are listening.
3. Silence: Cultivate silence so that others can self-reflect.
- Practice selective self-sharing – sharing just enough about yourself to help establish a trusting relationship.
4. Trust: Trust the insight and wisdom in others.
- Remind others they aren't alone and that you have their best interest in mind.
- If comfortable, offer up the second question: What drains you in your work?
5. Empowerment: Allow others to make their own connections.
- Consider responding with honest and open-ended follow up questions that invite others to make deeper connections.
- Perhaps ask, "why is that?" or "wow, do you mind saying more about that?"
6. Not Knowing: Make friends with uncertainty.
- Give yourself permission to be comfortable with not knowing, or not having all of the answers.