Medical Solutions provided this article.
When you hear the phrase “work-life balance,” what comes to mind? Those newer to travel nursing, and even veteran travel nurses, sometimes feel like it’s a concept out of reach. Yet, nobody understands more than healthcare professionals that doing the job effectively requires having the physical and mental energy to do so.
Taking time off between assignments is more than simply a promising idea. It is vital for your overall well-being and even the care of your patients. Fortunately, the flexibility of travel nursing—being able to work when and where you want—allows for this. It is up to you to prioritize self-care by taking time off!
Self-Care for Travel Nurses In-Between Contracts
The perception of self-care is often things like taking time to hit the gym or get a massage. While these can certainly be part of your self-care practices, true restorative self-care for nurses is about much more.
- Rest and Recovery
Jumping from contract to contract with no break in between doesn’t give you the time to decompress. Resting, relaxing, or even taking the time to recover from burnout is crucial to your physical and mental well-being. It can also help you avoid health issues and enhance your job performance, maintaining safety in patient care.
- Spending Quality Time with Family and Friends
Connection is a basic emotional need we all have, and using your time off between assignments to be in contact and spend intentional time with family and friends can offer you emotional support, reduce feelings of isolation, and help alleviate the stresses and demands of your profession.
- Focusing on Physical and Mental Health
Quality patient care is your primary focus during a contract, and the time off you take between assignments is the perfect time to assess the care you are giving to your body and mind. Consider your nutrition—everyone has different nutritional needs. Are you eating in a way that leaves you feeling energized and at your best?
How about your movement? Physical activity helps prevent disease, boosts “happy hormones” like serotonin and oxytocin, and can lead to improved sleep and mental restoration.
- Preparing for Your Next Assignment
Taking time off between assignments allows you to reflect on and assess your previous contract. Was the location everything you thought it would be? Were there any specific factors of your role or the facility that appealed to you? Maybe there are aspects of your last assignment you’d like to reflect on and explore what you would like to change in your upcoming contract.
Your recruiter will help you prepare for your next assignment, but taking that intentional time off allows you to have an honest conversation with yourself about what you want and need for your nursing career. Then, you can pick a future assignment that aligns with your overall goals.
Putting it into Practice: How to Take Time Off
“Time off sounds great, but I can’t lose my benefits!”
This is a common concern among traveling clinicians who would really like to take time off but don’t feel it’s possible. You can ensure it is possible by working through the right agency or organization, such as Medical Solutions. This way, you can retain your benefits during breaks and choose assignments mindfully. Work-life balance can be as accessible to you as it is to anyone else.
Our job board is the perfect place to look when you are ready for your next assignment or looking for your first assignment! Find both the role and the location that speak to you and your priorities.
