I shouldn't have to...
|
Hi there, Reader... You can see it so clearly... You're sitting at work, and it pops up yet again. The lingering issue you KNOW could be solved if only (fill in your challenge) changed. But you shouldn't HAVE to - it's not your job, after all. It's that person's area of expertise... It's the company's problem... It's your manager's lack of... Recently, I had a baby (you may or may not know that). In a high-risk pregnancy, you would think the medical professionals are ON it. And for the most part, they were. But I had a few moments of thinking this myself...I shouldn't have to... Why do I need to be the one to remind them of what's going on? They should read my chart. Why do I have to follow up and make sure things are scheduled? They should have this process figured out. Why am I doing independent research to understand my condition? They should educate me. For a few weeks, as my frustration and uncertainty grew, I was really resentful of this. Rightfully so? Perhaps. But here's why I'm sharing this with you, Reader. Those thoughts didn't change anything. In fact, they only made me MORE anxious. It felt very familiar, like when I was experiencing my last cycle of What DID help? Advocacy During one appointment, I asked to speak to a different doctor. I explained my frustrations (on the verge of tears iykyk). I showed up with specific examples. I got curious and asked questions. Immediately after that, my care plan changed. I had clarity and felt more confident. The doctor explained the plan in detail, and I felt the anxiety and frustration melt away. I got back in my car after that and felt like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders. This is the same way we feel when we advocate for ourselves at work. SHOULD you have to? No, of course not. We are professionals, and you're not a babysitter. The reality? Systems are broken. People are busy. Processes fail. Sometimes, you do need to advocate if you want change. If you want to feel better. What do you need to speak up about? Be well, ps - If you're interested in learning the tools to show up and advocate for yourself like I mentioned here, grab a spot on the waitlist for Back Without Burnout. This is the group program where I show you exactly how to spot these stressors and navigate what to do next. We start in May! |
