Patience & Patients
Dear Maribeth,
How can I keep my high standard of work ethic without becoming confrontational and threatening toward people who don’t have the same standards as I do?
A Caring Nurse’s Aid in East Greenwich
Dear CNA,
This issue affects people in all professions. It can be very frustrating to work with people who do the absolute minimum required. I’m glad you wrote it in; I’m curious to see what the cards show us.
The results are in! Strength, The Hermit and the 3 of Cups. The 3 of Cups in the 3rd position shows a festive toast, symbolizing compliments. With Strength also in your reading, I have no doubt you can beat this!
It often takes quite a bit of strength to stay focused on only the things that you can control. The cards often remind me that the only things we can make better are within ourselves by changing how we perceive and approach situations. You can’t change other people. Your high standards have nothing to do with their standards. The only way you would appear confrontational and threatening to your co-workers would be if you expected them to change. I am reminded of the serenity prayer: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” The first step toward you feeling better is to avoid expecting anyone else’s behavior to change. There is nothing you can do about what they choose to do, unless you are the boss. It takes strength to not expect other’s standards to be the same as yours. It is up to the workplace to establish the requirements of what work must be done, this is not to be confused with your standards. Obviously, if someone’s health is at risk, you need to tell someone.
The Hermit is next. Sometimes we need to keep our ears in our own dugout. Just focus on what you are doing, and make yourself proud. The Hermit is a card of quiet reflection. It is a time of focusing inward, as shown by the illuminated star within his lantern. Your concern over what others are doing and not doing is what is getting you into trouble. Lead by example. His eyes and mouth are closed and he carries a large wand symbolizing his efforts. Meaning? Your work speaks for itself.
Finally, we get to the 3 of Cups: the card of celebration. Try to have a good time at work, spread some joy. If you are lucky enough to have found a passion for doing what you love, it should be enjoyable. Try not to take yourself too seriously. You will be rewarded for your efforts. Don’t let the others bring you down. Some people are just there for a paycheck, while others are doing their life’s work. As “they” have always said, “It’s so hard to find good help these days.” I applaud your determination and efforts for quality work. I’m sure you’ll have days when you feel frustrated. But don’t compromise! Be patient with yourself and with your co-workers as well as your patients.
Thank you for making their stay bearable. I can tell you go the extra yard – I bet that makes your care-giving very special.