Joseph Campbell said something along the lines of, "The consciousness is changed through trials and tribulations and subsequent illuminating revelations".
Basically, this means that if we experience and deal with difficulties, our perception of reality is different; the way in which we view ourselves, others, and our environment is changed.
Many threads here on allnurses are about new Nurses endeavoring to deal with the pains and sorrows of working as a nurse. Some look for support and camaraderie in order to continue on their journey while others are discouraged and disappointed and want a way out.
One common factor amongst the seasoned Nurses focuses on their ability to adapt in order to brave the hardships of nursing. Some become, to varying degrees, calloused and expend their energies only on endeavors which are more assuredly to have beneficial results. Some are labelled COBs: Crusty Old Bats on the outside with gooey centers; coming across as mean, but good at heart.
Another common trait expressed is a type of personality change. Some have said they started out as naive nurses with Messiah Complexes, for they were young and strong and were going to save the world. Often times, these naive Nurses became pessimistic realists and found ways to deal with stress through changing their approach and personality.
Due to dealing with difficulties, these Nurses experienced illuminating revelations and changed the way in which they viewed themselves, others, and their environment.
Do you feel and believe that you have experienced a personality change since you were a new nurse?
I know that my personality changed from the time I began working as a new Nurse.
