The beginning of the New Year is an exciting time. It's as if the slate of the past has been wiped clean and a fresh start awaits. Now's the perfect opportunity to take stock of where we are, where we want to be, and what we need to do to get there.
Those of us who make New Year's resolutions look forward to realizing personal growth and accomplishing specific goals. But change itself can be daunting. Even though I thrive on the thrill of new adventure, I also like the cozy sense of security in all things established and predictable, as opposed to those unknown and unfamiliar.
A nurse colleague of mine recently remarked that change is unsettling because it pulls us out of our comfort zone, a place she equated to "an old, comfy pair of shoes." Taking that analogy one step further-who wouldn't want to slip into shoes worn long enough to be soft and pliable, that fit so well we almost forget we're wearing them? They don't pinch or irritate. They become a part of us, for better or for worse. It's tempting to just keep wearing them instead of changing into a new pair and going through that painful break-in process all over again.
Is there really a downside to that comfy pair of shoes? You bet. First, those old shoes detract from our overall image-they're worn and dated. They may not provide the level of support or protection we need, or even withstand the demands of the path forward. In fact, they can hold us back from taking the preferred route to get where we want to go.
With that said, there's a healthy balance between comfort and exploration. So, wear that comfy pair of shoes when you're tired and need a break. But also resolve to step out of your comfort zone this year and embark on the journey ahead with joy and the true spirit of adventure. Take on a new challenge, like going back to school, offering to present a lecture, writing for publication, developing a hobby, or volunteering for a good cause. Who knows-if the shoe fits, you just might find a new style that suits you even better!!
Until next time,
Linda Laskowski-Jones, MS, RN, ACNS-BC, CCRN, CEN
Editor-in-Chief, Nursing2010
Vice President, Emergency, Trauma, and Aeromedical Services
Christiana Care Health System, Wilmington, Del.
[email protected]