12 Tips for Nurses: The Paradox of Getting More Done is To Do Less

Fantastic advice. I've scaled things down this year and am feeling guilty about the people left to fend for themselves. Especially when they sent gifts when I didn't send any. I have been a good friend to these people in other ways during the year, so I'm trying to just let myself receive gratefully without guilt... Having a tough time, but I did need a quieter holiday this year. Love your article.

I worked with a few nurses recently who really need to read this article. That said, I doubt they could agree to 'do less' than they do. They would need some hard core proof I worked with a nurse (my preceptor at last job) who was hands down the 'best' oncology nurse on the floor, besides having been there for almost 20 years. She seemed literally plagued by all her ideas for interventions, patient teaching, things to chart, things to look up. She needed to be two nurses for her own health. I think if I'd suggested reprioritizing her tasks, she would have looked at me like I barked. But she stayed late nearly every shift, hated it, and was quite stressed and upset a lot. Patients and families loved her and I'm sure still do.I did the same job as she did in about two thirds the time she took, but my brain did not generate the sheer amount of NURSING that this woman's did. She could slow way down and still be the best on the floor. And that's just on the job. At least I see her skiing and sail boating on Facebook at least once a month, maybe that's how she survives!I've watched new nurses struggle with this. How to know what's most important in the moment when you are asked to do ten things at the same time? The strain on their faces is hard to bear. But the only thing that seems to 'heal' this is time, and a lot of positive feedback, offering alternative ways to look at a situation, and some more time and experience.

gooselady, BSN you bring up the essential struggle as a nurse and human being. When is enough enough? I like your answer, keep evaluating, stay positive and appreciate what you have done!

Let the guilt go... you have permission. You said it yourself - you have been there all year long. I am glad and so are so many people who will also feel it is ok from reading your post - that you are taking care of yourself. New beginning and hope. This is the season.

For the last two years I have shortened my Christmas gift-buying and have my spouse buying for his family, while I buy for mine. It takes away so much stress from me basically because his family asks for extremely specific things. My family is a little more laid back and appreciates hand-made gifts which I enjoy doing. Every year I cut down the Christmas card list(yes, I know this is outdated!!) and I do not go over-board with baking. It has made a huge difference in the after-affects of the Christmas season. I don't feel like I am totally exhausted, I actually sleep better and I feel more positive knowing that I accomplished all that I set out to do. I also do not get overly involved in other people's projects. I would be the type who would volunteer to help or to take over a project and then regret it because it seemed to be what tipped the scales for me. Learning to not get overly wrapped up in all the hustle and bustle has certainly helped me to be able to enjoy the season much more!! Delegate, Delegate, delegate!!! I loved this article!!

Great tips and advices. Thank you for sharing.