I believe Star Wars has the wisdom we need, if we’re prepared to look at it.

Right now there are tight controls on so many aspects of day-to-day work in healthcare it almost feels like a Darth Vader throat hold.

Yes, healthcare should be able to operate within a budget. Yes, there are efficiencies and gains to be made with the transformation into a more unified health system. Right now though we’re in the midst of that change. The new structures, systems and processes are only beginning to be put in place.

Every day people are trying thier best to deliver the best care in the best way to the communities they serve. Believing and trusting in them to do that has to be the foundation for this shift.

The more you tighten your grip, the more star systems will slip through your fingers.

Princess Leia

What could slip through right now?

While assurances that savings will not impact patient care, there is the risk that they will. The health system is just that, an interdependent system, all elements and people influencing and affecting the endpoint, the patient-facing delivery of care.

People are frustrated, exhausted, and distracted. Structures are changing, roles are shifting and people are leaving, losing their jobs, or hanging on so tightly that they are not aware of how they are making others feel. This system is about people, it is full of people and it is for people. How many will slip through while the grip is tightened? We can’t afford to lose any of them.

What do you do then?

So much can feel out of anyone’s control. Instructions and directives are expected to be followed.

Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.

Victor Frankl

Create the space. Create space to consider how you respond. At these times, as with any previous challenge or crisis in healthcare, the magic is found in how you respond.

With that space, you stop and think.

How do I want them to feel, how do I want them to act? How do I need to show up right now? You’ve created space for yourself and to consider others.

With those insights, you can ask yourself what to do to have the desired impact. What is the way to approach this conversation? What is the way to act, speak and listen?

I’m not suggesting rebellion.

The frustrations, exhaustion, and overwhelm could have you wishing to respond in many ways. Walk away, ignore it all, keep your head down, fight ferociously, speak up, or keep going. Or a mix of everything and more.

Rebellions are built on hope

Jyn Erso, Rouge One

I believe healthcare can be a great place to work. When it feels great to be at work, it’s easier to deliver the care and experience that communities deserve and need. I have hope that together that’s possible.

Respond, don’t react. Keep listening, talking, connecting, trusting and listening some more. Loosen the grip, and hold people gently.

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