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.
When I first started working in the operating room, the pressure and fast pace felt overwhelming. I quickly learned the nurse coping strategies were essential—not just for my patients, but for myself. From leaning on trusted colleagues to finding moments of calm during hectic shifts, these habits helped me survive and even thrive in the OR. In this personal story, I share what really made a difference: simple self-care routines, honest communication, and staying grounded amidst chaos. If you’re an OR nurse struggling with stress, my journey might give you hope and practical ideas to keep going strong.
