Post Shift Reflection

Download to your tablet and use on your favorite note taking application or print out!

Use this after every shift to actually take time and reflect on what it is you are feeling -- studies have shown that by merely NAMING the emotion you are feeling can help a certain part of your brain (the amygdala) process and store it in its rightful place so that your body doesn't stay in fight or flight over the unsaid emotion.

Additionally, knowing what happened on my top rated shifts, versus my lowest rated shifts, helped me to create a shift that I could actually enjoy, even if it was a tough shift. For example, I found out I rated my shifts as better if I felt like I really learned something and as a result, I made sure to ask questions more often so I'd learn and ended up having better shifts.

It also helps limit how much of yourself you give to the job by asking if you overextended yourself after the shift.

I hope this bring more clarity to you and fosters an attitude of growth versus defeat when it comes to nursing!