Staying Positive....how to?

[cornflakegirl3301]

Hi. I'm relatively new to Allnurses.com. I am currently a (new) LPN and in my last year of RN schooling. I am working at the local hospital here. I have a positive attitude and an ability to put patients before my own needs (Which is a must, imo, to be a good nurse). I feel that its important to have a smile on your face and be friendly to co-workers, patients, family, etc even on your worst day, because it makes a difference with your patients and coworkers. However, lately I am finding it hard to "suck it up" and smile and be extra nice. There seems to be so much negativity lately at my workplace. I have met a lot of nurses that are so....grouchy...and tired, ya know what I mean? I was just wondering if any of you know what I am talking about, and how you stay positive and keep a positive energy towards people? I am afraid that at this rate I may begin to lose that ability. It does become draining. What gives you your drive? What gives you that energy and the ability to be calm and continue to be genuinely caring?

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Thanks!

[philanurse74]

I try to remember that every patient is someone's loved one and treat them as I would want my beloved Grandparents treated. That being said, sometimes it is hard to keep that up EVERY DAY, and when I feel a bout of the grouchies coming on, I try to take a few days off to recoup. I also try to laugh with my patients as much as possible.

[zaggar]

What I do that helps:

1. Count your blessings.

2. Help someone.

3. Let all snide comments and rudeness slide, except those that will keep you up at night. Then speak your mind quickly and move on.

[CHATSDALE]

remember that even if you do this every day it is probably the most traumatic thing that has happen to the patient and the family

other nurses may be feeding off of the stress that each is feeling, try and keep from listening to negative thoughts

are you plannig to work in this facility after graduation? if not then you can smile inwardly with the knowledge that you are a shorttimer

[racing-mom4, BSN, RN]

TRy and focus on your patients and not the other nurses, stay busy with your patients and your charting and have that be your main interest, then if they are negative/tired/groucy you wont notice cause you will be so busy.

I am sure there is SOMEONE else at the facility who is positive, try and partner up with them.

[Straydandelion]

It is very easy to catch the grouch bug, an insidious disease that will pop up unaware and before you know it infect everyone. Once caught, it is hard to get rid of also! I have found a little listening to the one infected with some understanding, then top it off with just a touch of medicine they call humor. The humor seems to just eat away at the grouch bug, but will take more then one dose to cure.

[cornflakegirl3301]

Wow- Thanks for all of the great and wonderful replies. Its good to hear people who make an effort to keep their work environment healthy for co-workers and their patients. Refreshing. :-) Put a smile on my face today, thank you.