The True Power Of Compassion: Mastering Level 4 Energy In Nursing!

Nurses are some of the most compassionate people you will ever meet. Compassion comes naturally to us – it’s part of why we chose this profession.

In the Energetic Self-Perception Chart, compassion aligns with Level 4 energy, a highly anabolic (constructive and growth-oriented) energy.

At its best, Level 4 energy fuels service, caring, and deep connection. It empowers us to make a meaningful difference.

But like all energy levels, if we’re not self-aware, even Level 4 can become distorted.

When we don’t use our compassion wisely, it can slip into rescuing and enabling. We take on too much work, say yes to every extra shift, and prevent others from growing – not because we must, but because we don’t want others to feel burdened, stressed, or suffer.

 Without realizing it, our beautiful compassion can trigger catabolic energy – the draining, destructive kind we find in Level 1 (victim energy) and Level 2 (conflict energy):

• Level 1 energy shows up as exhaustion, helplessness, and burnout. (“There’s nothing I can do, I’m trapped.”)
• Level 2 energy shows up as resentment, frustration, and anger. (“Why is this always falling on me?”)

Instead of lifting ourselves and others up, we spiral into depletion and conflict. And ironically, the very compassion that motivated us becomes a source of suffering.

Here’s the truth:

True compassion recognizes that others are capable.

It sees the strength in allowing others to struggle, learn, and grow. It encourages resilience. It believes in others’ ability to handle challenges instead of protecting them from every hardship.

When there’s a staffing shortage, true compassion isn’t covering every shift and sacrificing yourself. That only provides a temporary band-aid.

True compassion is sometimes saying no – trusting your team, respecting your own limits, and allowing leadership to find sustainable solutions.

It’s choosing to uplift everyone, not by carrying their load, but by believing they can carry it themselves.

We are not band-aids for a broken system.

We are skilled professionals who serve with heart and wisdom.

Compassion doesn’t mean carrying the weight of the world.

It means believing in others’ ability to rise – and trusting yourself enough to know when to step back.

If you’d like to learn more about the 7 levels of energy and how they can support your success download a copy of the Energetic Self-Perception Chart.