I was raised in a hardworking family that valued helping others. My early years were instrumental in shaping my purpose and work ethic. I knew I wanted to help others find their voice as they faced life-threatening and complex illness.
As my career evolved, I transitioned from working directly with clients to working at changing the eldercare health system, a purpose that becomes ever more necessary.
Health care is experiencing seismic change. It is essential that we move through these changes cautiously with the needs of clients at the forefront of our work. But as we do so, their voices must remain our moral compass and our guide.
From that starting point, I believe these five core personal values give us the best chance for success in any endeavor.
» Purpose – Know your talents and interests and have a job that nurtures your purpose.
» Mentor – Helping others stay relevant with a feeling of purpose contributes to fulfillment at any age.
» Connect – Remember people's names, shake hands, congratulate others on a personal achievement. Positive encounters are rare in our fast-paced world. This effort will encourage a positive and productive atmosphere.
» Engage and collaborate – Invite people to engage and collaborate in the pursuit of collective success. Let their purpose shine and enjoy the pride that comes from watching your staff learn and grow.
» Explore – Learn and adapt great ideas from fields outside of your own. Keep an open mind and diversify your frame of thinking. •