Blog

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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. 

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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. 

Posted on

This IS the Journey

I used to be the woman constantly running—dropping Tara off at school, juggling work, soccer, ski lessons, and home (all with a supportive and helpful husband) while trying to squeeze everything into a 24-hour day that never felt long enough. I gave everything I had—my energy, my love, my time—to everyone else, including my family, my job, and my friends. And whenever I tried to carve out a little space for myself, it felt impossible, like there wasn’t enough time.

I looked at other women and wondered how they had it all figured out. They seemed to be doing something that I was missing. I felt like I was failing, like something was wrong with me because I couldn’t seem to crack the code. And I was exhausted from trying.

But here’s what I learned: nothing had gone wrong, and nothing was wrong with me. The only real difference between me and those other women? They believed they could figure it out, so they kept trying. They didn’t have some secret formula or hidden knowledge that I didn’t. They were just doing life—just like me.

They experimented with different routines, schedules, and ideas. When things didn’t work out, they didn’t label it as a failure. They saw it as part of the process and kept moving forward, adjusting as they went.

Once I realized that, I stopped believing everyone else had it figured out while I didn’t. I started making small changes and gave myself permission to let it be messy. I stopped trying to cram everything into a perfect 24-hour container and started focusing on what worked for me. I saw that I was not failing at life. I was living it. This was the process; it was the journey.

And I want you to know that if this resonates with you, I can help you go from feeling overwhelmed and exhausted to feeling more in control. Together, we’ll focus on practical strategies for managing your time, prioritizing what matters to you, and making small, meaningful changes. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I’ll be there to support you as you find what works so that you can live a life you truly love.

If you want an easy way to come and see what I’m all about, join the How to Manage Your Time Masterclass on Wednesday, September 11, at 11 AM. Registration is required, and you can do so here.

I’ll be there waiting for you with open arms. I’ve got you. 💕💕

P.S. Reminder: Employees get free coaching sessions as part of Logan Health’s benefits. 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 teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action.

Posted on

Time Management Starts with Knowing What’s Truly Important

You’re used to managing chaos. Emergencies, unexpected changes in patient needs, and shifting priorities come with the territory. But here’s something you may not realize: one of the keys to better time management is clarifying what truly matters.

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, it’s easy to feel like every task is urgent. You’re constantly pulled between patient care, documentation, team communication, and the small details that can eat up your time. What often happens is that the most important tasks—the ones that truly make a difference in patient outcomes and your job satisfaction—get buried under everything else.

Here’s the truth: good time management isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most. That starts with getting clear on your priorities, and here’s how you can start:

1. Define Your Non-Negotiables  

Not every task is equally important. Think about your day-to-day: what tasks must get done no matter what? These might be critical patient assessments, medication administration, or even checking in with your team. Identify 2-3 tasks that are truly non-negotiable each day. Let these be the anchor points for your time.

2. Use Microblocks of Time  

Healthcare shifts rarely go as planned. Between patient emergencies and last-minute changes, the day can feel unpredictable. Instead of fighting this reality, work with it. Break your tasks into smaller “micro blocks” of time. Even 5-10 minutes can be used productively—whether it’s catching up on charting, prepping for the next patient, or organizing supplies. Use these short bursts of time to knock out smaller tasks instead of waiting for a big chunk of time that may never come.

3. Say ‘No’ with Confidence  

One of the hardest things for healthcare workers is setting boundaries. When a colleague asks for help, or your manager assigns an extra task, it’s tempting to say yes. But saying yes to everything often means saying no to your own priorities. Practice saying no when a task doesn’t align with your core responsibilities. This isn’t about being difficult—it’s about protecting your time so you can focus on what really matters.

4. Batch Similar Tasks Together  

The constant back-and-forth between different types of tasks—like patient care, charting, and meetings—can cause mental fatigue and slow you down. Instead, try batching similar tasks together. For example, dedicate a block of time to complete all your charting at once instead of doing it between every patient. You’ll find that staying in one mode of thinking can help you get through your tasks more efficiently and with less stress.

5. Prioritize Breaks for Mental Clarity  

It’s easy to skip breaks when you’re busy, but this can actually hurt your productivity. Taking short breaks helps reset your mind and can make you more effective when you return to work. Prioritize short, regular breaks to boost your mental clarity. Even five minutes to step away, take a deep breath, or hydrate can make a huge difference in your ability to stay focused and efficient.

By incorporating these small yet powerful shifts into your daily routine, you’ll start to see improvements in how you manage your time and energy. The goal isn’t to be perfect; it’s to be intentional. Time management is about using the time you *do* have more wisely—so you can provide better care to your patients and experience more peace during your shift.

PS: Ready to take control of your time and reduce stress? Sign up for my (FREE) masterclass on How to Manage Your Time. You’ll learn practical strategies to regain control of your day without burning out. Click here to register! (Zoom link will be shared upon registration.)

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. 

Posted on

The Cost of Poor Time Management

(Why It’s Hurting You More Than You Think)

As a healthcare professional, you’re no stranger to pressure. Long shifts, endless to-do lists, and constant multitasking are part of the job. But what if I told you that poor time management might cost you more than just a few extra minutes each day?

I see it all the time with the nurses and healthcare workers I coach: the creeping stress that builds when your day feels out of control. You feel like you’re constantly running behind, never quite catching up. And the worst part? It starts to spill over into your personal life, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, drained, and disconnected—even when you’re not at work.

The truth is, poor time management doesn’t just affect your productivity at work—it impacts every area of your life. Here’s how it might be affecting you:

Burnout: The constant race against the clock piles on stress, which—if left unchecked—can quickly lead to burnout. This leaves you feeling emotionally and physically depleted, unable to recharge.

Patient Care: Struggling to manage your time doesn’t just affect you– it can also compromise the quality of patient care. When you’re stretched too thin, being present, focused, and effective with your patients becomes more difficult.

Personal Life: Perhaps the biggest hidden cost of poor time management is that it doesn’t stay at work. Instead, it follows you home. You may find yourself unable to fully enjoy your time off because your mind is stuck on what didn’t get done at work.

This happens because our brains aren’t designed to handle constant stress and multitasking—at least not efficiently. As a healthcare professional, you’re likely experiencing decision fatigue, cognitive overload, and a stress response that makes managing your time feel impossible.

But here’s the good news: simply understanding *why* this happens is the first step toward changing it.

During my upcoming webinar, “How to Manage Your Time,” I’ll be diving deeper into the neuroscience behind why time feels out of control and how understanding this can help you take back control of your day.

Here’s the thing: this isn’t just about throwing more time management tips your way. It’s about equipping you with strategies to help you maximize your time without burning out. In the webinar, we’ll cover:

  ~ Why your brain struggles with time management

  ~ The hidden costs of poor time management that you might not even realize are there

  ~ How mastering time management can improve patient care, reduce burnout, and help you reclaim control of your life

Want to know more? I’ll teach how during the webinar, but for a full transformation, one-on-one coaching offers a deeper dive into personalized strategies that work specifically for you.

If you’re tired of feeling like time is slipping through your fingers, I invite you to join me for the masterclass. Or, if you’re ready for more personalized help, book a complimentary consultation or sign up for a one-on-one coaching session (especially if you’re a Logan Health employee- see below!).

It’s time to reclaim your time—and your life.

P.S. You can register for this masterclass with this link:  https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tP782ZC1T9WmQDSiy13IwQ

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

Posted on

emotional responsibility

This week at Christine Seager Coaching, we’re focusing on emotional responsibility—allowing others to own their thoughts and feelings while reclaiming control over our own. It’s a mindset shift that empowers us to manage our emotional experience, no matter the circumstances.

As healthcare professionals, you know that emotions can run high in stressful environments. But did you know that you hold the power to decide how you respond? When we blame others for our frustration, sadness, or disappointment, we unknowingly hand over our emotional power. But what if we could reclaim it?

From a young age, we’re often taught that others are responsible for our feelings. When someone says something hurtful, we believe that pain is their doing. But as adults, we have the ability to reflect, choose our thoughts, and ultimately, decide how we want to feel.

Imagine approaching your day knowing that your emotions are within your control—not dictated by your boss, patients, or colleagues. How empowering would it be to realize that frustration or disappointment isn’t caused by outside forces, but by how we choose to interpret those forces?

By accepting responsibility for our feelings, we open the door to true emotional freedom. Instead of reacting on autopilot or avoiding discomfort, we can choose how we want to feel. The result? We start living a life of intention, rather than default.

Try this: The next time you feel frustration or stress in the workplace, pause and ask yourself, ‘What am I thinking right now that’s creating this feeling? And do I want to keep thinking this way?’ Shifting your mindset from blame to ownership can be transformative.

You have the power to take charge of your emotional experience.

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

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.

P.P.S. You can register for the next free Christine Seager Coaching Masterclass on What to Do When You’re Not Getting Results by clicking here. 

Posted on

MIRRORING

Have you ever noticed how we tend to mirror one another? It’s a natural part of human interaction. When someone is upset, we often find ourselves feeling upset as well. If someone is critical, we might respond with our own criticism. This mirroring happens instinctively, but with some awareness, we can manage it and use it to better help ourselves and others.

How Mirroring Works

Mirroring means we think, feel, and do what we want the other person to think, feel, and do. It’s like holding up a mirror to their behavior. If someone is kind to us, we will likely be kind in return. But if someone is negative, we might reflect that negativity back at them. This process can work both positively and negatively.

The problem is that our default setting often leans towards negativity. It’s easy to get caught up in a cycle of negative thoughts and emotions, especially in challenging situations. But here’s the good news: we can override this default setting. By becoming aware of our reactions, we can choose to respond differently.

A Common Example: The Critical Mother-in-Law

Imagine your mother-in-law is constantly criticizing you. She judges your decisions, offers unsolicited advice, and seems to believe that you’re doing everything wrong. Naturally, you might think, “She shouldn’t criticize me; she shouldn’t judge me; she should be nicer; she should mind her own business.”

But take a moment to notice what’s happening here. You think she’s doing it wrong—exactly what she’s thinking about you. You’re both caught in a cycle of judgment and negativity.

Feelings: A Reflection of Each Other’s Emotions

Mirroring also happens with emotions. If someone you care about is upset, you might get upset that they’re upset. Or if they’re worried, you start worrying about how much they’re worrying. This emotional mirroring can amplify the situation, leading to even more distress for both parties.

Actions: Reacting in Kind

Our actions often mirror the actions of others. If someone yells at you, it’s easy to start yelling back. If someone shows up upset, you might match their mood. But what if you didn’t have to react this way? What if there was another option?

Breaking the Cycle: Awareness Is Key

The truth is, their thoughts don’t affect you. What affects you is your own thoughts, feelings, and actions. You might think you’re mad because your mother-in-law is judging you, but in reality, you’re mad because of your own judgment of her—and maybe even your own self-judgment.

So, ask yourself: In what way have I become the exact thing that I disapprove of in them? Identifying this is not about shaming yourself or thinking you should or shouldn’t feel a certain way. It’s simply about awareness. “Oh, I get it; that’s what’s going on for me. That’s why I’m feeling this way.”

Sometimes, just being aware of what’s happening is enough to help you put it down. When you understand that you’re mirroring the other person’s negativity, you can choose to respond differently. You can choose not to mirror their anger, judgment, or worry. Instead, you can decide how you want to think, feel, and act.

The Power of Choice

Mirroring is a natural part of our interactions, but it doesn’t have to control us. By being aware of how we’re mirroring others, we can choose our responses. We can break the cycle of negativity and create more positive, constructive interactions. It starts with awareness and deciding to override these “default” settings.

Remember, you don’t have to be what you disapprove of in others. You can choose a different path.

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

P.S. You can register for the next free Christine Seager Coaching Masterclass on What to Do When You’re Not Getting Results by clicking here. 

Posted on

life is 50/50

We often find ourselves striving for perfection, aiming to create an environment where everything runs smoothly and everyone feels their best. However, one of the most liberating realizations we can have is that life is inherently balanced between positive and negative experiences. This concept, often referred to as the 50/50 principle, suggests that life is composed of roughly 50% fulfilling, uplifting moments and 50% challenging, difficult ones. Sometimes, this ratio might feel more like 80/20 or 20/80, but over time, it tends to balance out. Understanding this can profoundly impact how we approach our personal and professional lives.

The Duality of Life: Light and Darkness

Imagine the cycles of day and night. Without darkness, we wouldn’t truly appreciate the light. Similarly, the challenging moments in our lives give depth and meaning to the joyful ones. For example, a nurse who has experienced the stress of an overflowing ER on a busy night can deeply appreciate the calm and satisfaction of a smoothly running shift. Without the chaos, the calm wouldn’t be as gratifying.

Examples from Healthcare

  1. Patient Outcomes:
  • Positive: Successfully helping a patient recover and witnessing their gratitude can be incredibly rewarding.
  • Challenging: Facing a difficult case where, despite your best efforts, the outcome is not as hoped. These moments are tough but teach us resilience and compassion.
  1. Work Environment:
  • Positive: Being part of a supportive team where everyone collaborates effectively.
  • Challenging: Experiencing conflicts or miscommunications with colleagues. While uncomfortable, these situations can lead to growth in conflict resolution and teamwork skills.
  1. Personal Growth:
  • Positive: Feeling confident and competent in your role, knowing you are making a difference.
  • Challenging: Dealing with self-doubt or a mistake that shakes your confidence. These moments can drive you to improve and learn more.

Embracing the Balance

Realizing that it’s unrealistic to feel 100% positive all the time is crucial. Life’s challenges do not diminish its value; rather, they enhance our ability to appreciate the good times. As healthcare providers, this understanding can help us manage our expectations and reduce the pressure we place on ourselves.

  • Acceptance: Acknowledge that not every day will be perfect. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay.
  • Perspective: Reflect on past experiences where challenges led to personal or professional growth. This can help shift your perspective and find value in difficult times.
  • Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Understand that experiencing difficult emotions doesn’t mean you’re failing; it’s a natural part of the human experience.

Conclusion

Embracing the 50/50 principle allows us to navigate our lives with more grace and acceptance. As healthcare providers, understanding this balance can help us better cope with the inevitable ups and downs of our profession. By recognizing that both light and darkness play a role in our journey, we can find deeper fulfillment and resilience in our everyday experiences.

Let’s strive not for a life free from challenges but for a balanced life where we appreciate the beauty of the positive moments and find strength and growth in the difficult ones.

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health Whitefish, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book an in-person coaching session here or a remote/Zoom coaching session here.