This post is the second in a summer ‘Reflections of a Trailblazer’ blogpost series that will capture my thoughts on transformational leadership, nursing research, pursuing work-study-life balance, seizing opportunities and making a difference in the world. The first post in this serious can be read here: http://wp.me/p5zWO2-tN
As I reflect on my nursing career as a first generation immigrant from Jamaica who arrived on the shores of the UK 21 years ago, I have to pinch myself! No one could have convinced the 21 year old me that exactly 21 years later, I would be where I am today! It was beyond my wildest dreams. I remember a health care support worker telling me that I would never be promoted to a senior staff nurse post because, in her view, I was “too soft”. Wow!!! That was in my first year as a staff nurse.
Like most people, there was no master plan, no blue print. All I had and still have is the “audacity of hope”. I dare to dream in the face of great uncertainty. I continue to dream despite the ‘odds that are allegedly stacked against me’.
At this week’s Director of Nursing pipeline event in London, the advice from experienced Directors was for future leaders to be sure it is what we really want to do and we should only pursue it if we can live with uncertainty!
Great advice! Life is uncertain and so with empowerment and enablement of staff, I am confident that I can live with the uncertainty that inevitably affects everything in life. Life is uncertain. So, as long as we are certain that we are committed and driven to lead change and add value, we should put our head above the parapet; fill our boots and step forward!
As Nelson Mandela said “there is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living”
Word hard.
Dream in colour.
Let no one limit you – especially not yourself.
You are enough.
You are more than enough.
Walk purposefully through life.
Still, I rise! Lifting, as I rise!
Thank you to my readers, followers and inspirers for rising with me. What a ride?!
PS. Next, I will talk about the influencers on my journey (the good, the not so good and the downright ugly!🙊) Don’t miss it!!! 😂
Photo credit:
https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/www.pinterest.com/amp/pin/172051648238348150/
Nichole McIntosh FRSA 