Work and Life
Work and LIfe
By Kristel • April 22, 2026
Latest Posts
Work and LIfe
NURSE DIARY
Emotional Grounding: How I Return to Myself in Scrubs and Silence
Feeling scattered, overwhelmed, or disconnected? This post explores emotional grounding—a gentle, empowering way to return to yourself in the midst of chaos. Whether you're a nurse, creative, or simply tired of rushing, these raw reflections and simple practices will help you breathe deeper and show up with quiet strength.
Your Name’s on the Paper”: A Scrub Nurse’s Experience with Blame Culture in Nursing
It was a routine day in theatre—until the senior nurse walked in, holding a folded paper and quiet tension. She confronted my colleague, a fellow scrub nurse, about a missing instrument from a previous case. Though the tray had been checked thoroughly, the response was final: “I won’t blame anyone…
When ‘Blame-Free’ Is Just a Word: Finding Strength Beyond Empty Promises
When a “blame free culture” exists only on paper, it hurts the people who believe in it. I learned the hard way that words without action create fear and silence. But through protecting my peace, finding allies, and reclaiming my worth, I discovered strength beyond empty promises.
Surgeons Made Me Cry: When a Routine Dental Surgery Turned Into a Moment I’ll Never Forget
The surgeon made me cry. Not because of the procedure itself, but because of him—always agitated, never patient. His sharp tone cut deeper than the scalpel. Every rushed movement, every sigh of frustration, made me feel like a burden instead of a person. I tried to stay composed, but the…
OR Favoritism: Choosing Peace in a Politicized Operating Room
In the high-stakes rhythm of the OR, favoritism can quietly erode trust and teamwork. This post explores the quiet strength of choosing peace—stepping back, staying grounded, and prioritizing patient care over politics. A gentle reminder that integrity isn’t loud, but it always leaves a lasting impression.
Power-Tripping in the OR: Why It’s More Common Than We Admit
Power-tripping in the OR creates a toxic environment where teamwork suffers and patient safety risks increase. When authority is misused, nurses can feel disrespected and powerless. Recognizing and addressing power struggles is vital to maintaining a respectful, effective operating room for everyone involved.
7 Ways to Cope Fast Feeling Overwhelmed by the Hospital System Abroad
Feeling overwhelmed by the hospital system abroad is something many expats and traveling nurses experience. But it doesn’t have to stop you. From finding local mentors and breaking tasks into smaller steps, to quick breathing techniques and reconnecting with your purpose—these 7 practical tips will help you cope, regain calm,…
The Art of Saying No Without Guilt: A Nurse’s Perspective
Discover the art of saying no without guilt as a nurse. Learn why setting boundaries matters, practical ways to say no kindly, and how it protects your well-being and patient care. Embrace self-care and make saying no a healthy part of your nursing journey.
I Stop Chasing Validation to Prove Myself — And That Was Enough
I used to measure my worth by praise, performance, and perfection. But the chase left me hollow. When I stopped seeking validation and started trusting my quiet strength, everything shifted. I didn’t need applause—I needed peace. And in that stillness, I found something deeper: enoughness, rooted in my own truth.
Getting to Know Basic Surgical Instruments: A Beginner Nurse’s Guide
Every instrument tells a story — of precision, urgency, and care. This beginner nurse’s guide to basic surgical instruments offers more than names and functions; it’s a gentle introduction to the tools that shape every procedure. If you’re stepping into the OR for the first time, start here.