Half a Mile In

I am now a nurse. Nurse Jackye. Or if you prefer, “that Psych nurse.” 11 months in to nursing and I now know what it feels like to be in a nurse’s shoes. 

I understand what it feels like to work eight, twelve or even sixteen-hour shifts and still be human.

The long hours softly kill your social life. You have little time for your family. You can barely spare time for your friends, especially in your first year of nursing. When you remember that student debt companies are on your back, you even push yourself harder. You want to pay back Nelnet their money as soon as you can.

However, with all that crazy schedule, I cannot forget to look after myself. When I need to, I take time out for myself. Someone asked if I take care of my patients better than I do to myself. I do. I love myself way too much and taking care of my patients makes me happy. Is there a better way of taking care of yourself than doing what makes you happy? When you take good care of your patients, you are taking good care of yourself.