Helping our patients to take value driven based actions

When we do something, the underlying “feeling” or “value” with which we use to take that action, matters.

If we look after our children or elderly parents with the feeling of frustration, duty or obligation, then that can be tiring and exhausting. Not only that, those feelings can then infect other areas of our lives consciously or unconsciously.

If we can switch from a “feeling of obligation” to a “feeling of love for our family”, and take the same action, it will be less tiring. It may even be energizing.

So what’s my point?

Don’t fall into the trap of simply focusing on the action and behaviour. The desired action and behaviours are important, but the “quality” or “feelings” with which those behaviours are executed matters.

It matters a lot.

So the real question is, what “feelings” or “values” do you activate when looking after your patients? Using the “right ones” can have a significant impact on your mental health and your life.

I often use compassion, curiosity and hope. You might like to try those too.