As we come to a close on our Difference Maker series, let’s take some time to think about the traits discussed in previous posts.
We first, identified what is a difference maker. We discussed that they:
Do what they love
Have a big perspective
Understand relationships
Further in the series, we looked at how difference makers strive for excellence by:
Continual education
Goal setting
Following through
We reviewed important concepts such as self-care. Most important of any self-care plan is sleep, diet, and taking care of your mental health.
Finally, we reviewed the specific soft skills that difference makers possess.
Observation
Communication
Flexibility
Collaboration
When put together, those traits create a recipe for success that will last for years to come. This is where the idea of leaving a legacy starts to take shape.
When completing an important duty, do you ever think about its lasting effect on the people around you? As a nurse, every task you complete is a line written down in your career story; part of a legacy that you will leave.
Difference makers are goal oriented to leaving a positive legacy worth remembering.
Not everything you do in your job will be glamorous or life-saving, but each puzzle piece is part of a much bigger picture. Nurses can learn from memorable Difference Makers.
Nelson Mandela was one of those. The thread of legacy was woven throughout his lifetime.
Mandela spent most of his life whittling away at something he believed in. He overcame imprisonment and harsh realities without giving up on his dream.
Difference makers are no different because they see the finish line each day, not the mile markers right next to them. Your common goal of patient care goes far beyond the day to day and will be remembered long after you retire.
A famous quote from Mandela was “things will be better in the long run”. Your legacy is the “long run,” and in order to ensure it is a positive one you must:
Stand up for what is right/what you believe in
Be the first to step up to a difficult task
Be a leader
Be selfless
Remain positive in spite of a negative experience
Have vision and a plan of action
Resilience, selflessness, leadership, stepping to the challenge, standing up for what’s right, and having vision will undeniably leave a career legacy that no one will soon forget.
Live your life in such a way, that your legacy lasts beyond your lifetime.
