DQ: Discuss ways in which you will recognize signs of imbalance or stress as a DNP learner
My sense of recognizing stress is quite simple, I tend to close myself off from others and want to procrastinate everything I must do till the very last second. I have noticed that it is happening already with this program. I feel like I am not ready for this and may have been out of the education realm for too long. I find myself feeling overwhelmed and disappointed all at once. I am even late with this post as I was actually thinking of withdrawing and starting later in the year. I want to be successful but sometimes I feel that I sometimes put obstacles purposely in my way to sabotage my success. So, this discussion was quite useful in helping me to find ways to recognize, assess and help to reduce stressors and maintain a balance that is right for me. Everyone’s discussion has given me the strength and courage to continue on in this program and have given me a great perspective on how to make sure to have time for myself and how to reach that goal. So thank you to all.
In looking at selfcare articles the best thing for being sure to take care of yourself is to get a good night’s sleep, set up routine for good time management, meditation, not being afraid to ask for help and take a break when you need to regroup (Steven Tippens, 2019). If you use the
right strategies to self-care, it will help you survive and gain success in the success of such a vigorous program.
Your also need to know your limits and schedule selfcareactivity on your calendar whether it be a walk, coffee at Starbucks or a trip to the zoo. You also must set goals that are reachable and mark them off when you achieve them. But I feel that most important teaching I found about selfcare in such a high demand program is that even though things are not always perfect or easy that you are not alone on this journey there are others that are probably feeling the same as you so lean on them as well for guidance and support (Diaz & Lawrence, 2019).
References
Diaz, K., & Lawrence, C. (2019, October). The importance of self-care in
graduate school. Retrieved from The Advocate:
https://www.apadivisions.org/division-37/publications/newsletters/advocate/2019/10/self-care?_ga=2.185445225.1980794205.1645506377-831081604.1645506377
Steven Tippens, P. (2019, March 22). A Doctoral Student’s Guide to
Self-Care. Retrieved from Medium:
https://medium.com/@doctippins/a-doctoral-students-guide-to-self-care-96b11aded10
Thank you for posting. Some of the feelings you have, I have as well. Especially about feeling as though not ready and wanting to
DQ Discuss ways in which you will recognize signs of imbalance or stress as a DNP learner
postpone and blocking my ability to succeed. You achieved a goal-You got your discussion posted and it is really meaningful. I agree, procrastination does increase stress, in my case.
I too had thoughts of withdrawing because I was ready all the information, some areas for example the DC and LDP I could not gain access over the weekend, etc. Fortunately, this morning I see that
I did read the instructions for our first discussion post correctly
DC Network is available and I’m able to log in and peruse the site and locate the necessary forms that are due tonight.
“We need to understand that making mistakes is part of being human, not because we are inadequate. (Hofmeyer & Kennedy, 2020 )
Keep the faith,
Reference
Hofmeyer, A., Taylor, R., & Kennedy, K. (2020). Knowledge for nurses to better care for themselves so they can better care for others during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. Nurse Education Today, 94. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2020.104503
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It is important to each and everyone of us to make sure that we give ourselves plenty of time to work on our schedule to prioritize which will help us in our school, work and family life. Going back to school while working full time is stressful and exciting at the same time. A lot of anxiety goes on my mind and thinking if I can do it this time. Emotional well- being during this time is important that we should all consider while in school and outside life.
Stress is a state of mental or emotional pressure resulting from a difficult situation or issue that can be resolved when identified. Many of the stressors were inherent from our profession since we work long hours, dealing with loss, emotional suffering, caring for dying patients and providing support to families and patients. There are several ways to improve or relieve stress and can be managed by a person. Effective techniques for stress management varies and one is self-care. Self-care includes mindfulness practices, good nutrition eating habits, physical good health with exercise.
As a DNP learner I realized that I should self- improve and should know how to manage my stress and make sure to remind myself that I need self- care too. while reading some articles regarding stress I was able to come up tips to guide me in balancing my studies, work and being a mother. Techniques include manage my time wisely, setting limits for my school work, schedule for studying, small breaks when needed. Other technique is make sure I am organized in taking notes, keeping track of my schedules, assignments and other important task. Create a good study environment, making sure that your study area is quiet, peaceful and soothing to you because it will reduce some of the stress and will help you focus in learning. Making sure that you get enough sleep and well rested is important. Sleep deprivation can add to your stress and won’t help you in learning. Balancing with school, work and life should include taking care of your self. Now that I am back in school I will make time to enjoy spending time with my friends whenever I can, dine out with family from time to time, spa which includes manicure and pedicure that will make me feel good inside and out. These relaxation techniques are part of my daily routine that can help my overall wellness. Last thing is going to church every Sunday and always praying to God and asking for guidance.
