There are many angles to the concept of sustainability, but in a nutshell, I believe that, applied broadly and consistently, it solves a host of other problems posted here. That is, we can do everything so as to further continuity in occupation, unit, and personal life. Far from being a matter of circumstance, I believe it's something every nurse can engineer for themselves. Here's how I applied it to my situation:
1. PICK RIGHT JOB. I wanted an occupation that was sustainable. Looked over the job market as a military retiree and found that nursing had the least ageism, was recession-proof, was in a severe manning shortage, was globally portable. Avoided extreme specialties where I risked losing general nursing skills.
2. PICK RIGHT FACILITY. I wanted an employer whose values would create a sustainable relationship. Noticed over the years that one facility in the area gave my family clearly superior service. Decided if I had to work in a hospital, that would be the best place. Later learned other places pay more. I guess they have to.
3. COMMIT IN DEPTH: I wanted to create sustainability in my particular situation. Went to school at the hospital previously mentioned. Worked as aide and unit secretary there to learn the environment and relationships. Hired onto the unit with the strongest learning/teamwork environment where zero backstabbing was noted in clinicals. Create goodwill by coming in on little notice during staffing crunches and help out when other nurses get crunched.
4. PICK A MOTIVATION NOT DEPENDENT ON CIRCUMSTANCE: I wanted to create personal internal sustainability. Decided nursing had enough depth to allow for endless personal spiritual development and satisfaction to get me over the inevitable rough spots. Made that my primary motivation for staying. Avoid any discussions that are judgmental of patients or others. Look for things to admire in co-workers, thank them for their advice and support.
5. ESTABLISH AND SUSTAIN FAMILY SUPPORT. Way back when nursing was just an idea, I sought family buy-in. Maintaining the family's willingness to support my nursing is a daily investment. Always I give heartfelt thanks for family support, because it involves sacrifice. I always talk about the things that made me feel good on the shift, sometimes the challenges, but never complaining or making it look bad, because family must feel good about what they're supporting.
Please add to this thread by posting how you create sustainability for yourself.
