I was all set to settle in this week and share ideas and links from a book I recently finished:  Compassionomics. This book presents the evidence that caring makes a difference. Potentially preaching to the converted the book takes a step by step approach at digging into the scientific evidence that supports that position. It seemed an apt topic to dig into as New Zealand nurses prepare for an 8 hour strike next week. I then decided that the fact that New Zealand nurses are taking an 8 hour strike isn't something to tiptoe around. 

To those involved or caught up in any way in the strike this week I’d say this.

I believe everyone is doing the best they can with what they can. Believe that and your interactions will feel different. 

Everyone is fighting a battle that you can’t see or are even slightly aware of. 

So

Be kind

Be curious

Find some empathy and listen.

The upcoming strike is one element in a healthcare system that is needing to change, facing uncertainties and challenges to be what it needs to be. I don't think New Zealand is alone in this challenge. This is about the mental health of communities, this is about inequities of health outcomes based on your race, this is about workforce preparation, retention, inclusion and development, this is about peoples purpose and feeling part of something important. This about work that is hard, tough, inspiring and motivating all at the same time. 

Doing what we’ve always done is not going to solve the problems we are facing right now. We need to do something different and that means thinking differently - different ideas and starting with different conversations. We need different perspectives, insights and professions to all be part of creating the new. It might mean it's time for you to step aside, or build someone else up. 

This means having a conversation with someone you disagree with, or who you've made your mind up about without really connecting with them as a person. This means remembering that we can all change, grow and be better than before. This means giving people second, third and fourth chances. 

Get into that conversation and frame that listening with the intent to believe that at least 80% of what they say is true.

Dare to shift your perspective, dare to admit you might be a little bit wrong. 

This is how we’ll create the future our workplace and the people who work in it needs.