Recently, my youngest daughter and I were privileged to travel to Athens, Greece for some special time together. We were thrilled to see the sights from ancient world history and walk the paths of those we study about in the New Testament of the Bible. We were privileged to see the ruins of an amazing, sophisticated culture from 500 to 600 A.D. In particular, we will always remember climbing the steps to the Acropolis in Athens and walking the beautiful hillside in Delphi.
In ancient Greek culture, Delphi was recognized as the center of the known world, the place where heaven and earth met!! At the entrance to the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, the words "know thyself" were inscribed in golden letters. As I listened to our tour guide describe this wisdom of the past, I couldn't help but think of how relevant those words are even today. How easy it is in this culture of instantaneous delivery and multitasking to lose sight of who we are and strive to be.
When teaching about spirituality in nursing, I have always challenged those in attendance to think about their own spiritual life. Has the nurse explored his or her own spirituality? Have they nurtured their spiritual self or is that idea new to them? Have they thought about how their life has meaning and purpose? If not, my premise is they will not be very effective in facilitating spiritual care in their nursing role because they have not experienced spiritual growth in their own life.
I think this premise also applies in a general way to our effectiveness in manifesting the art and science of nursing. Too many times, I have observed colleagues who fulfill the job requirements of nursing, but don't practice the art and science of nursing. They are often very capable, bright individuals, but something is missing. Quite frankly, I don't think they have stopped to deeply explore "Why nursing?" and "Why me in nursing?"
Nursing is a demanding profession. We are required to make critical, on-the-spot decisions without error; communicate clearly and effectively with a diverse clientele (e.g., patients, families, vendors, other healthcare providers); understand and continue to learn about such diverse areas of knowledge as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, medical technology, human response to illness, and health promotion; and deliver care when and where it is needed, convenient or not. No wonder some lose their passion and commitment to nursing. But when that happens, it is critical to "know thyself."
We all have varied reasons for entering nursing. Most nursing students I have queried describe the desire to "help or serve others." By far, it is the leading reason students give for choosing nursing. Others describe the opportunity for steady income, the thrill of working in a fast-paced healthcare environment, and the flexibility of shift work to accommodate their lifestyles. Over time, the "why" may change. What was initially a passion to serve others may realistically become comfort with a job you know "inside-out" or enjoyment of the people you work with. Regardless of the reason, it is important to never lose sight of the "why" of your choice to be a nurse, both in the past and present.
I think another important aspect of "know thyself" is recognizing the potential you have to always be something more. Perhaps you have minimized the expertise you have acquired in the specialty without thinking of how you could benefit others through serving as a preceptor to a new employee, volunteering as a regional leader, writing an article, giving a presentation, or serving SGNA or CBGNA as a national leader. Do you really "know thyself?" Do you recognize your talents, both natural and acquired? Are you aware that you have something valuable to contribute?
For some of you, pursuing additional education would seem a logical step of "know thyself." Going back to school takes commitment. No doubt, there is sacrifice required in terms of time, money, and relationships; but there are also incredible rewards. Have you reached a point in your career where you are most definitely an expert in your role? Does the "new and interesting" come further and further apart? "Know thyself." Perhaps it is time for you to stretch and grow again. Pursuing a higher education causes you to think in new ways and often, you will come to see nursing in a fresh, broader perspective than what you have known before.
Another important aspect of "know thyself" is making career decisions based on your talents, skills, and passion. I love hands-on nursing and was incredibly fulfilled in my past role as a nurse manager in the endoscopy setting. I managed a large unit with exceptional staff, and we often were involved in providing cutting-edge technology and care. About 15 years ago, however, I recognized that I have a love and passion for research. Because many colleagues in nursing do not share that same talent, skill, or passion, I made a conscious decision to "fill the gap" as a nurse scientist. We have many excellent clinicians, but few excellent researchers in gastroenterology nursing. Because I knew my talents, skills, and passion, I made a conscious decision to steer my career in a new direction.
Stopping periodically to assess where you are in terms of satisfaction, potential, and opportunity is critical to "know thyself." Each of us was created with the potential to leave an indelible mark on this world through our relationships, talents, and skills. And, most of us will spend 40 to 50 years in our career. The demands of society, the fast pace of our lives, and the incredible pressures associated with nursing can cause us to lose our passion and perspective on nursing. When this happens, "know thyself." Reflect on your "Why nursing?" and "Why me?" Define your purpose as a nurse and the meaning nursing gives to your life. Assess how you can further your potential and broaden your perspectives. Nurse-know thyself.