Does the nagging question of “Am I doing enough?” come up regularly for you. Nurses and physicians are often concerned about being thorough enough, leaving transfer ‘paperwork’ for the oncoming shift, and wondering if you’re up to date enough. This second guessing of self is exhausting and leads to burnout.
Striving for excellence is an admirable goal and it can become a trap when the desire for excellence turns into perfectionism that leads to dissatisfaction. On the one hand it is important to do your best and at other times, “Good Enough” really does suffice. Looking for the perfect outcome, especially when there so much out of your control, is unrealistic.
As I am writing this, I notice my internal conflict in thinking about “good enough” when it comes to patient care. How do you sort out when excellence and your best are needed or when good enough is enough? There is some unbundling that has to go on.
Patient safety and welfare needs your best; people are depending on you. In healthcare, there is also a lot of peripheral work that needs to get done, for example some of the documentation and meetings. The capacity to be at your best has limits, some by time constraints, interruptions and poor sleep and nutrition. When does good enough suffice?
Here are a few ideas to help you recognize Good Enough
- Avoid Social Comparison it can trap you into overlooking what your strengths are. Focusing on the long hours of another or the documentation habits of others may prevent you from seeing your contribution regarding your ability to see the bigger picture or your communication skills with staff and families, or whatever your special contribution is.
- Focus on What got Done – Working in a busy medical practice or hospital there is always more to do, one more lab result, one more note to read and then write. Instead, recall what you have gotten done during your day or shift, the patients you helped, the education you provided.
- Be Present – Try to keep focused on the person or task at hand. The less distracted you are, even by other important matters, the more you will be able to be at your best in the moment.
- Set Boundaries – Be clear what your needs are regarding when you have to leave work and communicate these. If there is work that still needs to be done, make a plan. This can also help you be present too.
How do you know when you’ve done “good enough?” Share your experience by clicking on Leave a Reply below.
“He who knows that enough is enough will always have enough.” – Lao Tzu
To connect with your best and know when good enough is appropriate for you, contact me.
Revitalize Your Life,
Dina, 203.744.YOU3 (9683)
Improving physician and nurse well-being through coaching.
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