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One Sentence

When I heard Gretchen Rubin’s term “midlife malaise,” it hit me like a ton of bricks—that was me. I had been lost in my own life, just drifting along, not fully engaged in living. I was constantly wondering, Is this it? Is this all there is to life?

I knew something was missing, but I had no idea how to figure out what it was.
I knew something was off, but I didn’t know how to make it right.
I wanted to be happier, to enjoy my life, to be a better wife and stepmom, but how?

Then one day, I stumbled across a quote in Real Simple magazine. It said, “What’s the goal of your life? For me, it’s to make the people I love happy and have a good time with them.”

And I thought, That’s it. That’s what I want—to live with joy, with purpose, to actually feel alive in my own life. But then that question crept back in: how?

Maybe some people are just born knowing how to live that way.
Maybe I wasn’t wired for it.
Maybe I’d missed my chance.

If this sounds familiar, let me tell you: one sentence can change your life.

For me, that sentence was: “I know exactly what to do here.”

That simple phrase helped me break free from the endless cycle of “but how?” and start believing I already had the answers. Every time I repeated it, my brain shifted from feeling stuck to offering solutions. Suddenly, ideas came to me—small actions I could take to move forward. And each time I took action, I created proof that, yes, I did know how.

Instead of feeling frustrated, hopeless, and lost, I began creating real, meaningful change in my life.

That one sentence transformed everything. It helped me stop seeking and start creating the life I’d been longing for.

So, if you’re ready to stop searching and start creating an extraordinary life, let me help you. You can get through the hard things, and you can feel fully present and engaged in your life.

Life’s too short to spend it just getting by. It’s time to start creating the extraordinary life you deserve—and I can show you how.

Are you ready to find your one sentence?

As part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here. 

Book a LOGAN HEALTH EMPLOYEE Life Coaching Session Here

Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me here.

Book a COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION Here

The LAST Free Monthly Masterclass f 2024 is on December 11, How to Abstain from over eating, over drinking, over scrolling, etc. You can see more info & register here. I hope to see you there!

HOW TO ABSTAIN MASTERCLASS

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

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3 Surprising Myths About Boundaries (and What They Really Mean for Your Relationships)

When we hear the word “boundaries,” it’s common to think of drawing a line, creating distance, or saying “no.” But true boundaries are so much more than limits—they’re about clarity, respect, and ultimately, connection. And yet, there are still many myths that keep people from setting healthy boundaries in their lives. Let’s clear up a few:

Myth #1: Boundaries Push People Away  

One of the biggest misunderstandings around boundaries is that they’re meant to keep people at arm’s length. But boundaries aren’t about building walls; they’re about setting guidelines that let others know where you stand. Clear boundaries allow you to show up authentically, which actually brings you *closer* to others by promoting trust and mutual respect.

Myth #2: Boundaries Are Rigid and Unchangeable  

Setting a boundary isn’t about locking yourself into one rule for life. Boundaries can evolve as you grow and as your relationships shift. The key is to set boundaries that feel right for *you* and adjust as needed. Think of them as guidelines rather than unbreakable rules.

Myth #3: Only Big Problems Require Boundaries  

Many people think boundaries are only necessary when there’s a major issue. But boundaries are powerful in our everyday interactions, too. They help us protect our time, energy, and well-being, whether it’s committing to 15 minutes of downtime or setting limits on work-related messages after hours. Even small boundaries can have a big impact on our mental and emotional health.

Ready to Start Setting Boundaries that Work?

Join me for my All About Boundaries Masterclass tomorrow at 11 AM MT via Zoom. We’ll break down the steps to create boundaries that feel true to you and explore how to honor them even when it’s tough. Can’t make it live? No worries—replays will be sent out to everyone who registers. [Link to register]

It’s time to leave the myths behind and start setting boundaries that help you thrive.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Register for All About Boundaries Here

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions.

Book a LOGAN HEALTH EMPLOYEE Life Coaching Session Here
Everyone else… Book a COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION Here 🙂

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

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Setting Boundaries that Stick: Practical Tips for Healthcare Professionals


Healthcare is all about giving. You’re there for your patients, your team, and sometimes even strangers when they need it most. But who’s there for you when feel you stretched thin?

It’s easy to feel like you’re supposed to be constantly available. Taking on extra shifts, answering emails after hours, and saying “yes” to last-minute favors have almost become badges of honor. But what if it’s costing you more than you think?

The Challenge of Boundaries in Healthcare
Have you ever had that feeling when you’re finally off the clock, but your phone just won’t stay silent? Or maybe you’re exhausted from a long week, and yet you’re signing up for extra shifts because it feels wrong not to help out.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In healthcare, these kinds of demands are often unspoken expectations. But without boundaries, burnout isn’t far behind. And let’s be honest: burnt-out you isn’t the best version of you—for your patients or for your own life and family.

Shifting Your Mindset on Boundaries
Setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re a way to decide what’s truly important to focus on and let go of what isn’t, so you can keep giving sustainably. When you know where your limits are, you can serve at your best without running dry.

How to Set and Keep Your Boundaries

  1. Start with Small, Clear No’s
    Saying “no” doesn’t have to be dramatic. Start with small boundaries, like declining non-urgent calls after hours or setting a cutoff time for work emails. You can keep it simple and professional: “I won’t be able to respond to non-urgent requests after 7 PM.”
  2. Use Your Schedule as a Boundary Tool
    Your schedule is one of your most powerful boundary allies. Block off personal time on your calendar—yes, even if you have to make it a meeting with yourself! Prioritizing that time is a way to recharge so you can come back to work focused and energized.
  3. Communicate Openly and Often
    Talk to your team, your supervisor, or anyone who might expect your availability. Being clear about your boundaries (and reinforcing them when needed) helps others respect your time. Remember, setting a boundary once isn’t enough; reinforcing it regularly builds respect and understanding.
  4. Let Go of Guilt
    You can be compassionate without sacrificing yourself. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re not committed; it means you’re committed to showing up as your best self. This mindset is essential for long-term success in healthcare.

The Difference Boundaries Can Make
Imagine finishing your shift and actually being able to leave work at work. Or starting your day feeling rested instead of running on fumes. Boundaries help you build a sustainable career, showing up for your patients and colleagues fully engaged and present.

Closing
Boundary-setting is a skill, and like any skill, it gets easier with practice. If you’re curious about taking this further, I’m hosting a free webinar on boundary-setting specifically for healthcare professionals, where we’ll dive deeper into strategies and answer your questions. You can also book a complimentary consultation to explore coaching support that helps you set boundaries and regain balance in your life.

What’s one small boundary you’ve set (or would like to set) that’s helped you feel more balanced at work or home?

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here. 

BOOK A LOGAN HEALTH COACHING SESSION HERE
FOR NON-LOGAN EMPLOYEES, BOOK A COACHING CONSULTATION HERE

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

REGISTER FOR THE NEXT MASTERCLASS: ALL ABOUT BOUNDARIES

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How to Live an Extraordinary Life (Yes, Even with Your Busy Schedule)

Does the idea of living an extraordinary life feel out of reach when you’re buried in work and the endless demands of healthcare? You’re not alone if it does. But here’s a little secret: an extraordinary life is not only possible—it’s closer than you think. There’s a process to get there, one step at a time, and it starts with learning how to manage your mind.

Managing your mind is all about how you handle stress, make tough choices, and feel confident about those decisions without second-guessing. It’s not a personality trait or something you’re born with; it’s a skill you can develop. And it’s this skill that can help you live life on your own terms, even within the intense world of healthcare.

Imagine going into each day feeling clear, confident, and ready for whatever comes your way. It’s more than just surviving the day-to-day—it’s a way of actively designing a life you love, even on the busiest days.

So, how can you get started with managing your mind? Here’s one powerful step:

Notice the Little Wins  

When you finish a difficult shift or handle a challenging patient with care and patience, recognize that as a win. Confidence doesn’t come in a flash; it’s built gradually, one brick at a time, through moments like these. Acknowledging these small victories builds your resilience and reminds you that you *are* in control.

By making a habit of celebrating these everyday successes, you’ll find yourself feeling more confident and at ease with life’s demands. It might feel small, but the benefits add up. And over time, this mental clarity and confidence become the foundation for a life you love—one you’re designing, not just letting happen.

Living an extraordinary life in healthcare isn’t about changing careers or dropping all your commitments. It’s about taking ownership of your mindset, finding clarity, and building confidence that sticks.

Ready to explore this further?  

Join me on November 13 for an online masterclass on Boundaries, where we’ll dive into strategies to build a life that fits you. Or, if you’re ready to take a deeper dive, stay tuned for a special offer designed to set you up for your best year yet. (Let me know if you want to be one of the first to know.)

Let’s make an extraordinary life your reality. Registration is required, click the link below to sign up.

SIGN UP: ALL ABOUT BOUNDARIES MASTERCLASS

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session

SIGN UP: COACHING SESSION

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A True Story About Communication

I wanted to share a moment with you that taught me a huge lesson about staying calm in difficult situations.

One time, I had two direct reports who left work early. They had finished their productive work for the day and just…left. The problem? They were still required to work 40 hours a week, and their early exit was not okay.

My first reaction was immediate anger. My heart was pounding; my mind raced with questions like, “How could they just leave like that?” and “What were they thinking?” I could feel my frustration rising as I prepared to confront them.

But as a coach, I now know to do something I wish I had learned sooner— to pause. Instead of charging into that conversation with anger, to take a beat and give myself a moment to think before reacting.

Pausing would have given me the space to shift from defensiveness to curiosity. Instead of assuming they didn’t care or weren’t taking their jobs seriously, I wondered, “What was their reasoning?” or “Was there something going on that I didn’t know about?”

This curiosity could help me approach the conversation much calmer. I could say, “I noticed you left work early today,” and have a productive discussion that leads to more understanding—and a clearer plan moving forward.

How to Stay Calm When You’re Angry

We’ve all been in situations where our first instinct is to react emotionally. Whether at work with your team or home with loved ones, your emotions can take over before you’ve had time to think. And when that happens, conversations can spiral into frustration, defensiveness, and conflict.

But staying calm is possible, even when your initial reaction is anger.

Here’s a little trick that has worked wonders for me: When you feel the heat rising, pause and take a beat. This gives you enough time to gather your thoughts and prevent your emotions from dictating your reaction. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in the heat of the moment.

When you give yourself that brief pause, you create space to shift from judgment to curiosity. Instead of jumping to conclusions or making assumptions, you can ask questions that lead to understanding, opening the door to a meaningful, productive conversation rather than an argument.

This small change in approach can prevent so much conflict—and build trust and collaboration instead.

Practice Makes Progress

Like any skill, staying calm and leading with curiosity takes practice. But the more you do it, the more natural it becomes. Over time, your conversations become less stressful and more productive.

If this approach sounds like something you’d like to explore more, I’ll cover it in my Collaborative Communication Masterclass. It’s a great opportunity to learn actionable strategies to stay calm in challenging situations and improve your conversations. I will help you apply these strategies in your daily life, making your day more productive and your relationships better. 

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here. 

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

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Breaking Down Defensive Walls: The Key to Better Conversations

One of the biggest challenges in healthcare communication is defensiveness. You’ve likely experienced it yourself—someone makes a comment, and before you even think about it, you feel the need to defend your actions. This is especially common in high-pressure environments like hospitals, where emotions can run high, and time is limited.

But here’s the thing: defensiveness shuts down conversations.

Instead of connecting and solving problems, it creates walls that are hard to break through. So, how can you dismantle those walls and create a space where real conversations can happen?

Problem: Why Defensiveness Takes Over

Defensiveness often kicks in when we feel misunderstood or criticized. Our brain goes into protection mode, making it hard to hear the other person’s perspective. And in healthcare, where every decision feels important, this reaction is even stronger.

But defensiveness doesn’t just hurt the conversation; it blocks the chance for true collaboration.

Solution: Focus on Empathy and Curiosity

To break through defensiveness, try leading with empathy and curiosity. Here’s how:

  • Start by acknowledging their emotions: Statements like, “I can see why you might feel frustrated,” show the other person that you recognize their experience. This lowers their defenses and opens the door for a more constructive conversation.
  • Ask questions rather than making assumptions: Instead of assuming why something went wrong, ask about their thought process. Try, “What was going on for you in that moment?” or “How do you think we can avoid this next time?” This invites a collaborative mindset, allowing both sides to work together toward a solution.

Results: Building Trust and Reducing Conflict

When you approach conversations with empathy and curiosity, you not only avoid triggering defensiveness but also build trust. People feel heard and understood, which leads to more openness, cooperation, and problem-solving.

By practicing these techniques, you can make conversations in healthcare less about defending positions and more about working together to find solutions.

Want to go deeper? My Collaborative Communication masterclass will give you practical tools to use empathy and curiosity effectively, helping you improve communication at work and home. You can register here.

If you’re a Logan Health employee, remember you have access to a free coaching with me as part of your benefits! (BTW, it’s completely confidential. I don’t share who I work with, what role coaching clients are in, what department they work in, etc.) Let’s work together to strengthen your communication skills and reduce stress in your professional life. You can book a coaching session here. 

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How to Turn Tension into Collaboration with Three Simple Shifts

Have you ever walked into a conversation already expecting tension? Whether it’s a challenging patient, a frustrated colleague, or a demanding supervisor, those moments can feel heavy and stressful before the first word is even spoken. But what if you could turn that tension into an opportunity for collaboration instead?

The problem is, we often get stuck in a defensive mindset. We’re ready to protect our point of view or respond to criticism. This only heightens the tension and prevents meaningful communication.

But there’s a way to shift the dynamic and get better results.

Shift 1: Take a Neutral Stance

When we approach conversations with an agenda or strong opinions, we unknowingly create resistance. Instead, try to stay neutral—focus on the facts, not feelings. For example, rather than starting with, “You always forget to update the chart,” you could say, “I noticed the chart wasn’t updated after your shift.” This reduces blame and keeps the conversation focused on solving the problem.

Shift 2: Ask Open-Ended Questions

People feel more valued when they’re given the chance to share their perspective. Instead of assuming you know why someone acted a certain way, ask them to explain. Questions like, “Can you help me understand what happened here?” or “What do you think might work better next time?” foster collaboration rather than confrontation.

Shift 3: Look for Solutions, Not Faults

In moments of stress, it’s easy to focus on what went wrong. But what if you focused on what could go right? By shifting your energy from finding fault to finding solutions, you open up a space where everyone can contribute ideas. You might say, “Let’s figure out how we can make this work better moving forward,” inviting a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

These simple shifts can transform tense situations into opportunities for better teamwork, understanding, and productivity.

Want more strategies like these? Join my upcoming masterclass on Collaborative Communication, where we’ll dive into the exact steps to master neutral, solution-oriented conversations in your healthcare role. Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 11 AM MT. Replays will be available. You can sign up here.

Don’t forget—if you work at Logan Health, you can schedule a coaching session as part of your employee benefits! Let’s chat about how we can reduce tension and build stronger communication skills together. You can book a coaching session here.

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When Conversations Fall Apart

Ever notice how quickly a conversation can fall apart, whether it’s with a colleague, patient, or your team? You start with the best intentions, but suddenly the other person shuts down, leaving you frustrated and stuck.

These breakdowns happen when we focus on what someone did “wrong” rather than trying to understand their perspective. This often leads to defensiveness, miscommunication, and missed opportunities for collaboration.

But there’s a better way.

Collaborative communication shifts the focus from judgment to curiosity, allowing for open, productive conversations where everyone feels heard and respected. 

Here’s how to start:

  1. Manage your emotions. Before engaging, check in with yourself. If you’re frustrated or angry, take a moment to calm down. Deep breaths or a brief pause can make a huge difference in setting a positive tone.
  2. State what you see objectively. Stick to the facts. Instead of saying, “You never finish things on time,” try, “I noticed the project wasn’t completed by the deadline.” This avoids blame and keeps the conversation neutral.
  3. Validate their experience. Show the other person that you understand their feelings. Use phrases like, “I get how this situation could have been frustrating for you.” When people feel understood, they’re more likely to open up and collaborate.

By following these three steps, you create a safe, respectful environment that fosters honest conversation and problem-solving. Want to take it further? Join my masterclass on Collaborative Communication, where we’ll dive deeper into the full process and explore ways to apply these skills in your workplace and at home. Registration is required and you can do so here.

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get coaching sessions at no cost to them. You can book a coaching session here. 

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

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Four Types of Burnout: How to Spot Them and What to Do

Let’s be honest—burnout in healthcare is real. And it doesn’t show up the same way for everyone. Whether you’re caring for patients or managing a team, the daily grind can leave you feeling exhausted, stressed, and wondering if you’ve got anything left to give. The good news is—you’re not alone, and there’s a way through it.

Let’s talk about the four types of burnout that healthcare providers often face, how to spot them, and what you can do to start feeling better.

Emotional Burnout

What It Looks Like:
You know that feeling when you’re on your way to work and you’re already emotionally drained? That’s emotional burnout. Frustration is simmering just beneath the surface, and connecting with your patients or coworkers feels like a huge effort.

How to Spot It:

  • You’re emotionally exhausted before your shift even starts.
  • You’ve hit a wall when it comes to showing empathy.
  • You feel frustrated or irritated more often than not.

What to Do About It:
Take care of you first. Set some boundaries around how much you’re giving at work, and make sure you’re spending time on things that recharge your emotional tank, whether that’s journaling or even a quick walk outside.

Physical Burnout

What It Looks Like:
Ever feel like no amount of sleep is enough? Or that your body’s constantly aching, even when you haven’t done anything strenuous? Physical burnout is your body’s way of telling you it needs a break—and fast.

How to Spot It:

  • You’re always tired, no matter how much rest you get.
  • You’re catching every cold or bug going around.
  • Your body just feels… worn out.

What to Do About It:
Let’s start with the basics—sleep, hydration, water, and movement. I know it’s easier said than done, but your body needs it. Take mini breaks throughout the day, even if it’s just a few minutes to breathe or stretch. And when you’re off the clock, make time for low-impact activities that help you recharge physically.

Mental Burnout

What It Looks Like:
When you’ve been juggling a million decisions, and suddenly, your brain feels like it’s on strike. Mental burnout shows up as difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, and feeling like even small decisions are overwhelming.

How to Spot It:

  • You can’t concentrate, or you feel mentally foggy all the time.
  • You’re struggling to make even simple decisions.
  • You feel scattered and disorganized.

What to Do About It:
Slow down and take things one step at a time. Break up your tasks into smaller chunks and establish priorities. Writing things down can help clear your mental clutter and bring some clarity. And if you need to, give yourself time to pause.

Compassion Fatigue

What It Looks Like:
This one hits close to home for a lot of us in healthcare. Compassion fatigue is when you’ve given and given, and there’s just nothing left. You still care about your patients or your team, but showing that empathy feels almost impossible.

How to Spot It:

  • You feel detached or emotionally distant from those you’re helping.
  • Helping others no longer feels fulfilling.
  • You’re emotionally numb, like you’re running on empty.

What to Do About It:
Take time to reconnect with why you got into healthcare in the first place. Lean on your team for support when you need it, and don’t be afraid to step away emotionally when a situation is too draining. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so give yourself the space to refill it.

Moving Forward: Burnout Isn’t Permanent

Here’s the thing—burnout, in any of its forms, doesn’t have to be permanent. You can feel better. The first step is recognizing what type of burnout you’re experiencing and then taking small steps toward recovery. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone.

I specialize in helping people like you find balance, manage stress, and rebuild confidence. If you’re feeling burned out, let’s chat. You can book a complimentary, no-obligation consultation here.

Logan Health employees receive complimentary coaching, and I’d love to support you in getting back to a place where you feel energized and fulfilled at work and in life.

Take a small step today. Let’s work together to beat burnout and bring more balance back into your life.

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From Overwhelmed to Organized

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by paperwork or endless to-do lists, you’re not alone. In healthcare, staying organized can feel impossible.

Early in my career as a nurse manager, I found myself buried in piles. Sticky notes, papers, and random notes covered my desk, with no clear system for organizing them. Despite taking detailed notes during meetings, they would end up in the same chaotic stacks. I wasted time searching for what I needed, felt constantly behind, and my stress levels steadily increased.

One particularly chaotic week pushed me to my breaking point. I knew I couldn’t continue this way and had to find a better system. That’s when I came across David Allen’s Getting Things Done. I read it over a weekend and immediately felt inspired to take action. The following Monday—on my day off—I went into the office and completely overhauled everything. I sorted papers, created systems, and organized my tasks in a way that finally made sense.

The results were almost immediate. Once I implemented these strategies, everything changed. I stopped wasting time searching for documents and felt a newfound sense of control that I hadn’t experienced in a long time. My stress decreased, my productivity improved, and I could finally focus on what mattered most.

This experience taught me that everyone needs a system that works for them. The key is to start small by addressing the areas that cause the most stress. Develop a routine for reviewing tasks, and use tools that support your workflow.

Working in healthcare, chaos often feels unavoidable, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Small, intentional changes in how you organize your work can make a huge difference in how you feel and how productive you are.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, there’s a way through—and I can help. I coach healthcare professionals to find clarity, reduce stress, and create systems that truly work. Send me a message or book a complimentary, no-obligation consultation, and let’s get you back on track.

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here.