Self Compassion for Nurses

Excerpt from The Beginner’s Guide To Nursing: What They Didn’t Tell You in Nursing School

Practicing Self-Compassion

Practicing self-compassion is a critical part of practicing as a nurse. You must learn to show yourself the same care and kindness you show your patients.

Take control of that voice in your head right now with a healthy mindset.

Here are the steps when in the thick of it:

Recognize the moment. When you’re struggling or feeling inadequate, recognize the moment as painful or stressful. Simply notice what’s happening and how you’re feeling.

Take a deep breath and ground yourself in the right now of this struggle.

Accept it as a part of the learning process, as part of life. Remember that everyone feels inadequate at some point while learning.

Remind yourself that you’re not alone and others often feel the same way. It is possible to be comfortable with uncomfortable emotions as they flow in and out of your life.

Ask yourself what you need right now. Do you need to step away from the situation so you can take a deep breath and calm your mind? Do you need a positive affirmation? A hug? A conversation with a friend?