Saturday, 14 July 2012

Where do I fit as a “Learner and Leader in the 21st century?



Listening to Dr. Patterson this morning I started reflecting on my own style of learning- Many of the attributes that she discussed in her talk resonate with me. I identified with students hearing about what makes them successful, learners, and what empowers me to be a successful leader.
It was not surprising to hear the speaker refer to the three as being connected.
She described how students  need to experience a sense of “ belonging,  safety and self-esteem, “ she noted that students need to have these basic needs met before engaging  and connecting, and only then can they experience a sense of value.  I see these essential elements to my own learning as a student and as essential elements to my workplace. Through my Med program and working in a cohort, I have discovered rich connections that have left me feeling safe, connected and that have empowered me as a leader.
I believe that my role as a Nurse Educator I have a responsibility to role model and demonstrate leadership.  I am hopeful that I exhibit the qualities that she describes as being “honest, forward thinking, competent and inspiring.  I believe that I exhibit these qualities in conversation and in practice; that being said, I need to keep on my toes and  revisit this list in an earnest attempt at self-reflection.
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Sunday, 22 April 2012

Hello Healers!

Inspired by Marina, I have joined a Zumba class.  It runs every Friday morning at my local rec center.  I am hoping I can bring some of the energy to our Friday evening classes.

Monday, 19 March 2012

Taking Action


I was inspired by a group of grade six students at my son’s school, who did a presentation on the Plastic Vortex.  The kids researched the topic, did a beach cleanup, and did a bang up job on their presentation.  They took action as a class, by ensuring they all brought in their cutlery from home to gobble down their cafeteria lunch.

What could I do?   Start small.  Of course we all recycle, but reducing is seemingly more difficult.  I wanted to look for opportunities to contribute to our environmental health.

So this is me taking action this month (at home and at work)

First things first, my family and I went to the river and did a clean up.  Sadly, we picked up a full bag of junk, mainly plastics and metal.
Next I ordered glass water pitchers and drinking glasses for an upcoming nursing retreat.  Last year we consumed over 140 bottles of water!  It was so wasteful!

Lastly in keeping with healthy living and health education, I have organized a guided walk around Burnaby Lake for our retreat, and am still working on finding someone to lead our group in some Thai Chi moves in the morning.

Living well………Mary

Tuesday, 24 January 2012

Winter blues and a bad cold

I wonder if my concept of health is affected by the weather. Not sure what came first my winter blues or my cold. Yesterday, I went for my usual swim and a quick walk.  I was bundled but still felt the dampness. All day long I felt cold.  Today I am fighting a cold and feel miserable.  Tonight I will curl up with a hot toddy and a blanket and try to get to bed early.  I like to keep it natural...anyone have any good ideas for fighting off a winter cold and the winter blahs?