In healthcare and emergency services, the phrase “I’ll rest when it’s over” is all too common. The problem? “Over” never comes. Shifts blend into each other, and the weight of responsibility is relentless.

As a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years in high-stress, high-stakes environments, I know firsthand how easy it is to put your own needs last. I’ve been there—running on fumes, thinking that stepping away for myself meant I was letting my team or my patients down. The truth? That thinking nearly burned me out completely.

Self-care isn’t indulgent—it’s essential to doing your job well and keeping yourself healthy.

The Hidden Cost of Self-Neglect

When you push through exhaustion, you may not notice the slow changes at first. A little more irritability. More mistakes. Trouble sleeping. Eventually, compassion fatigue sets in. That’s when the work you once loved feels like a burden instead of a calling.

Reframing Self-Care

Think of self-care the way you think about maintaining equipment. If you never service your vehicle, it breaks down. If you skip PPE checks, you put yourself at risk. Your body and mind are no different.

Self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days or long vacations (though those are great). It can be:

• Eating a real meal during your shift.
• Taking 5 minutes for deep breathing before a difficult call.
• Saying no to an extra shift so you can spend time with loved ones.
  

Small, Doable Strategies

• Micro-breaks – Just 60 seconds to stretch, breathe, or drink water makes a difference.
• Boundaries – It’s okay to say, “I’m not available” without guilt.
• Connection – Spend time with people who remind you who you are outside of work.

You entered this work because you care deeply. Caring for yourself is the only way to make sure you can keep caring for others for the long haul.

If you’re ready to explore sustainable self-care without guilt, my 6- and 12-month coaching programs are designed for clinicians and first responders just like you. Together, we’ll build a personalized plan that works in the real world.