As we step into 2022, it is understandable we do so with mixed feelings. Yes we made it through two tough years, yes we have a lot to be thankful for- and then came Omicron…

Some suggest that instead of feeling guilty or pushed into making big lifestyle changes for the New Year, a healthy alternative is small, sustainable changes that can be more motivating and can act as a catalyst for bigger changes we want to see in ourselves.

Debra Bourne, our Chief Operating Officer agrees. This year she has, what she describes as her ‘go to self-talk’.

In 2022, Debra says she would like to find, “strength and resilience sprinkled with a heavy layer of kindness to others”.

Wanda Stelmach, Chief Medical Officer says her inspiration for the new year comes from our staff. She says that what they have taught her is, “to see the joyful in the hardest of times.”

Lisa Cox, Acting Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer also has our staff as her focus-specifically our nursing staff. This year she resolves to “take each day at a time, be kind and for all nurses to find their love in nursing again.”

Michelle Fenwick, Executive Director, People and Culture plans to follow the advice that has kept her in good stead for the last two years. She says ‘taking  each day as it comes’, has served her well, allowing her to focus on the now and to only carry over ‘good stuff’ to the next day.

Briana Bass, Chief Allied Health Officer would like to switch things up from setting ‘intentions’ to setting ‘commitments’.

Says Briana, “Whilst I’ll still focus on kindness, I think it’s time for me to reenergise and set some firm commitments! I’m a big believer that good sleep habits are a critical starting point to achieving great things, so I’ll start by committing to getting to sleep before 10pm on at least 3 nights of the week!”

Chief Finance Officer, Andrew Gay says that while it feels like “we take two steps forward, and two steps backwards”, he encourages staff to “recognise and celebrate something positive, regardless of how small it is on a regular basis.”

Celebrating the small victories and being kind to oneself  is a recurring theme and good advice. Starting the new year off with a focus on what may be holding you back, can perhaps help you to start putting your wellbeing first.

May 2022 be the year you focus on giving the world the best of you instead of what is left of you!