How to reply to negative comments

[LSimleRN]

I am a brand new nurse, lucky enough to have landed an internship in a small local hospital (which I love by the way), with the only negative being that I have to work night shift. I am very happy, and yes, I am aware that night shift is going to be tough and will require serious adjustments in my life and my immediately family's life. But, I so hate it when other members of my family make less than helpful comments. Nothing bad, just sad that instead of just being happy for me, all they see is hardship. It makes me nervous, like they know I'm going to fail because I won't be able to adjust. Anyone has some sound advice for me? regarding this situation? night shifts? anything?

[LessValuableNinja]

I find the, "You know, I thought it would be bad and was concerned at first too, but have found it really helps me be able to," technique effective. You insert at the end things that indicate unusual improvements over a "normal 730a-530p job, such as have lunch with the kids at school, go on field trips with the kids on day off, attend concerts during the week and not have to get up early, basically just point out the advantages as you perceive them. Night shift has both major disadvantages and advantages, just like day shift.

[Icooka4u]

RE: by LSimleRN, ADN I so hate it when other members of my family make less than helpful comments.

I empathize with what you are experiencing from other family members. I too have experienced that. The older I get, the less tolerant I am of unnecessary negativity. As women, we worry to much about hurting someone's feelings or offending them, when meanwhile they are walking all over us and being insulting.

I would K.I.S.S. (keep it short & simple) forgoing in depth explanations that you don't owe them. I.E. This is a great opportunity for me and my family. If you don't have anything positive or solution based to contribute, please keep your comments to yourself.

Negative Nellies & Emotional Vampires will suck you dry if you let them. Your transition is stressful enough without the unsolicited negative energy.

Good Luck & Congrats!

[brownbook]

When family members imply you won't be successful, in a shocked tone of voice politely reply, "Why on earth would you think that!"

[LunaTunaPineapple]

Ignore their less than awesome comments and reassure them that YOU feel confident. They're not working those night shifts, YOU are. They may be reacting negatively because they feel they'll lose you to your work schedule (no longer available to spend time in the day time). Good Luck !