"The two most powerful words when we’re in struggle: me too."
— Brene Brown
I laughed out loud as I typed the title to this article.
It’s a rhetorical question, right?
"It’s a breeze to change practice in our NICU. The staff jumps right on board, the educational process is efficient, and in no time, our VON data, parent satisfaction scores and staff morale are off-the-charts-awesome," said NO ONE EVER.
And why is that? Why is it such a struggle to change practice, or heck, even create a new visitation policy?
The reasons we struggle are many. But one in particular leaps to the surface:
We’ve been educated to care for the tiniest human beings, not to create new systems, integrate change and advocate for resources. And yet, because we care so much about the infants and families we work with, we find ourselves in the midst of all of the above. Lost, or maybe slightly disoriented, but in the midst of it just the same.
We’re not always sure who to contact, where to begin, or what tools to use.
But we DO know the end result we’re aiming for. And we know for sure we won’t give up. Well, at least not for good.
I almost gave up, once upon a time.
I almost surrendered a vision I really believed in because I was kicked around ‘in the arena’ (as Brene Brown would say) one too many times.
I want to share that story with you, not because it was a shining moment for me, but to show you that you’re not alone. It IS a struggle. And the great news is there is help and support on the way.
Tomorrow evening I’ll tell you all about that moment. From the way it stopped me in my tracks to the systems and tools I wish I knew then.
For today, know this:
Your efforts toward implementing change in the NICU are never lost. They are, at the very least, rich soil for growth, and at the very most, life-changing.
Your sheer will to be part of the solution inspires.
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