Keeping your energy levels high

Many dental nurses are empaths, meaning they care deeply about other people; their patients, colleagues, and of course family and friends. Healthcare roles attract these empaths for obvious reasons, but constantly caring for others in a professional and personal capacity can take its toll, leading to overwhelm and exhaustion. These feelings can be heightened if you go from caring for patients at work to a caring role at home, be it children, a partner, elderly parents, or even pets — it all contributes.

As the founder of a primary care network consultancy, I know how demanding a role in the healthcare sector can be. And, as a wife and mother to three daughters, I also know that sometimes life outside of work can be just as — if not more — demanding. Through my own experiences, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that looking after myself, as well as my team and loved ones, has to be something I prioritise. It makes me a nicer person to be around and helps me perform better at work.