Almost every work place has drama. Deflecting that drama has become a defense mechanism. I loathe when someone tries to insert drama inside the bubble of contentment I have created at work. Some years ago I wasn’t happy with a coworker I had no choice but to work with. I didn’t have anyone at work I could trust to explain the situation. I had only been there a couple of years. Also, I protected the privacy of my office. Word spreads lightening fast when there is drama. We all know.
Finally came the time when that coworker had to move on to another workplace. I really couldn’t believe it. It felt too good to be true. I still kept quiet of my feelings and unpleasant experiences until she was really gone. Her replacement arrived, and my approach was cautious. It quickly became apparent the replacement was wonderful to work with.
As a nurse, working as a team is so important. No one can do everything alone. I felt that way for a long time. With my previous coworkers there were arguments over assignments, “stealing” someone not on your assignment. So freaking stressful. I announced I would take care of all the students with g tube feeds just to stay out of their stupid drama; along with my pre-existing caseload of differently medically fragile students. I didn’t experience amazing team work until a nurse I still adore and love to work with went totally out of her way to help me stabilize a student who was decompensating. She actually said, “this is nursing Menay, this is teamwork” when I tried to thank her.
The office I work out of is usually a drama free zone. I don’t want to hear it, seriously. Of course there’s gossip here and there but even that is taken with a grain of salt. Some staff come to vent and that’s fine. I get it. But take the drama with you when you leave.
I have 4 children, all grown, the oldest special needs. I’ve had enough years of drama and angst trying my best to raise everyone the way each needed to be raised and have their needs met. Today, I’m proud of them all. And dare I say when we get together it’s mainly a drama free zone. I love when everyone is here.
Menay O; mom to 4, Christian and thrift shopper on the side... 