How Nurses Can Reclaim Their Power: The Key to Responding, Not Reacting!

In our demanding profession, we often encounter situations that test our patience, resilience, and emotional strength. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by external circumstances, but it's crucial to remember that our power lies not in controlling what happens to us, but in how we respond. Our reactions can either empower or disempower us, influencing our well-being and professional satisfaction.

The Impact of Our Responses

When we fixate on problems, assign blame, or view ourselves as victims, we inadvertently surrender our power. This mindset can lead to feelings of hopelessness and resentment, hindering our ability to navigate challenges effectively. Conversely, by focusing on what we can control and taking responsibility for our actions, we adopt a more empowering stance, fostering personal and professional growth.

The 7 Levels of Energy

To better understand how our perceptions shape our experiences, let's explore the 7 Levels of Energy from the Energetic Leadership Assessment:

1. Level 1: Victim Energy – Characterized by feelings of apathy and helplessness. Individuals at this level often think, "I can't" or "I have to," driven by fear.
2. Level 2: Conflict Energy – Marked by anger and defiance. The mindset here is combative, focusing on resistance and opposition.
3. Level 3: Rationalizing Energy – Involves coping and tolerating. There's an attempt to rationalize situations, thinking, "It's okay; I can deal with it."
4. Level 4: Caregiver Energy – Centers on compassion and service to others. Individuals prioritize others' needs, often at the expense of their own.
5. Level 5: Opportunity Energy – Sees challenges as opportunities. The focus is on finding win-win solutions and embracing possibilities.
6. Level 6: Synergistic Energy – Recognizes the interconnectedness of all things. There's a deep sense of intuition and visionary thinking.
7. Level 7: Absolute Passion Energy – Embodies non-judgment and unconditional love. Individuals at this level experience complete passion and joy in all situations.

Understanding these energy levels allows us to recognize our default responses and consciously choose more empowering reactions.

My Personal Journey

For nearly three decades, I built a successful career in healthcare, climbing the leadership ladder and earning respect for my ability to problem-solve and support others. I was seen as capable, reliable, and an expert at keeping things running smoothly. Yet, beneath the surface, I felt disconnected and unfulfilled.

Then came the moment that changed everything. My role was being reassigned due to an organizational restructuring, and suddenly, it felt as if I were just a pawn in someone else's game. I had worked tirelessly to earn my place, only to have decisions made about my future without my input. I was frustrated, undervalued, and deeply disheartened.

At first, I felt powerless—trapped by a system that didn’t see or appreciate my contributions. But as the frustration swelled, another truth emerged: I had spent years following the rules, meeting expectations, and prioritizing others' needs at the expense of my own. This realization hit me hard. I could either continue playing by someone else’s rules, or I could take responsibility for my own career.

For the first time, I asked myself: What do I really want? The answer was clear—I wanted more than just a title or a paycheck. I wanted work that aligned with my values, where I could make a real impact on others without sacrificing myself in the process. So, I made a choice: I stepped away. I took control of my career, defining success on my terms, and created a path that truly reflected who I am.

Now, as a transformation coach, I help other nurses do the same—break free from self-sacrificing patterns, reclaim their confidence, and step into leadership in their careers and lives.

Empowering Through Assessment

In my coaching practice, I utilize the Energetic Leadership Assessment to help clients identify their default energy levels. This tool provides insight into how they perceive and react to situations, enabling them to make conscious shifts towards more empowering responses. By breaking free from fear and embracing responsibility, nurses can enhance their communication skills, advocate effectively for their needs, and foster a more positive work environment.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to transform your professional interactions and personal well-being? Download my free guide, "3 Reasons Why Nurses Don’t Have Difficult Conversations and What to Do About It," to begin your journey towards more empowering communication and a fulfilling nursing career.

Remember, it’s not what happens to us, but how we respond that truly matters. Let’s choose empowerment over victimhood and lead with resilience and compassion.