Sometimes in the early months of the new year in our part of the country it is common to isolate and wait until the dark days are over. We delay starting projects or learning new things or visiting with friends because it takes a little more effort than we want to put forward.

Although understandable, nothing could be worse for our mental health. Rarely does motivation come from inaction. So, if you have fallen into this trap, I would like to suggest that you do one thing.

One project, one visit, one interesting article, one new recipe and it is likely that by doing one thing it will motivate you to do one more thing and before you realize it the dark days will be over.  If you are not feeling the dark like some of us, please reach out to a friend. It might be just what they need.

RONA has several activities coming up to put on your to do list Blood Drive – January 27th; Nursing Career Information Session – Jan 28th; and next month’s RONA Bowling Tournament – Feb 21st.

I know I say it a lot but hanging out with fellow nurses is motivating and fulfilling.  Our unique perspective of the world and the work we do can sometimes leave us overwhelmed, misunderstood and lonely. I ALWAYS feel better after meeting with our Board or participating in a RONA activity.  So, join us.  I look forward to seeing you.

Nursing and the environment are intertwined. The environment is a core tenet of Florence Nightingale’s theoretical foundations of patient care. The nurse uses environment-specific tools, skillsets, and experience to deliver care, convey a concept or advocate for patients and communities.

To navigate through the landscapes and mountains of the Pacific Northwest and RONA region, a compass is an essential tool that helps the individual stay oriented, navigate challenges and reach their chosen destination with clarity and safety.  The name Compass was chosen for our new online newsletter, to symbolize the same steady orienting of a compass: informed decision-making, ethical grounding, commitment to patient-oriented care, and contextualized care (the importance of looking beyond the individual to the social environment in which they live). And in life, a compass can remind us that, even in times of uncertainty, we can always orient ourselves towards purpose, connection, and community.

The Compass Newsletter intends to serve as your guide. Your Compass Newsletter offers updates and announcements on educational opportunities, links to articles, and applications for scholarships, Nurse of the Year, volunteer opportunities, fundraising events, and community gatherings. The Compass also offers insights to help every nurse in our region to know they are supported, encouraged, and empowered.