RUNurse: Running Is Like Nursing!

As I lace up my running shoes each morning, a familiar blend of excitement and serenity washes over me. Running has evolved into more than just a physical activity; it has become a vital lifeline that interweaves my passions as a nurse and an individual. The rhythmic pounding of my feet against the pavement mirrors the heartbeat of my nursing journey—a dance of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to self-care. Each mile I run serves as a poignant reminder of why I choose this path, not solely for myself but to inspire and uplift my fellow nurses to embrace the transformative power of running: Building Resilient Nurses.

To me, running is an act of self-discovery. With each step, I unearth deeper insights into my capabilities and limitations. Those early morning runs following 12-hour night shifts provide me with a sacred space to reflect on my previous night while mentally preparing for the challenges that await at the hospital. Nursing, especially in a high-acuity CVICU, is a demanding profession, often requiring us to be on our feet for hours, managing high-stress situations, and caring for patients who depend on us in their most vulnerable moments. Just as I train my body to withstand the physical demands of running, I cultivate mental resilience to tackle the complexities of nursing. Running teaches me that persistence is key; it reminds me that every challenge can be overcome with the right mindset and preparation.

The parallels between running and nursing extend into the realm of endurance. Both require dedication to training and the ability to persevere through difficult times. There are days in running when the weather is less than ideal, or when my body feels heavy and unwilling to cooperate. Similarly, there are shifts in nursing that test our stamina and resolve—whether due to an influx of patient admissions, emotional exhaustion, or the physical toll of long hours. On days when I feel fatigued or overwhelmed, the lessons learned during my runs echo in my mind: slow down, breathe, focus on the rhythm, and keep moving forward. This mindset not only helps me conquer my runs but also equips me to face the challenges that arise in the fast-paced environment of nursing.

I am passionate about sharing this journey with my fellow nurses. In a profession that often prioritizes the needs of others over our own, it’s all too easy to overlook self-care. I have seen too many colleagues experience burnout, fatigue, and emotional exhaustion; I have faced those circumstances myself. I want to be the voice that encourages them to prioritize their well-being through running. When I invite a colleague to join me for a run, I can see the spark of curiosity ignite in their eyes. I recognize the potential for change, the opportunity to reclaim their time and energy. By running together, we cultivate a community that champions fun, positivity, and enthusiasm—three essential ingredients in building resilience—where each mile becomes a shared victory, and every drop of sweat is a testament to our strength.

The benefits of running extend beyond physical health; they permeate our emotional and mental well-being. I’ve found that running provides clarity amid chaos. It’s a time when I can process the emotional weight of my work, allowing me to return to my patients with renewed compassion and empathy. As nurses, we often absorb the pain and struggles of those we care for; without healthy outlets, that burden can become overwhelming. By encouraging my fellow nurses to lace up their shoes and hit the pavement, I invite them to create their own outlets for stress, fostering resilience that translates into their professional lives. Moreover, participating in local charity runs brings joy to our shared experience, igniting our passion for nursing as a caring and giving profession.

Running also embodies the essence of teamwork and support, much like nursing itself. I’ve participated in numerous races, where the atmosphere is electric, filled with cheering crowds and fellow runners who uplift one another through the pain. This camaraderie reflects the spirit of nursing—how we lift each other up during the toughest times, providing support when it’s needed most. When I run with fellow nurses, we celebrate each other’s achievements, whether it’s completing a mile without stopping or crossing the finish line of a first 5K. Those moments of shared triumph forge bonds that strengthen our resilience both on and off the track.

Additionally, I find joy in the stories we share during our runs. Our conversations often shift from light-hearted banter about running shoes to heartfelt discussions about our jobs, the challenges we face, and the triumphs we’ve experienced. These shared moments foster connections that deepen our understanding of one another, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. Just as we support our patients through their healing journeys, we support each other through the ups and downs of nursing and running.

In the realm of resilience, running has taught me the power of goal-setting. Each time I set out to train for a race, I craft a plan that includes specific milestones. This mirrors the care we provide to our patients—setting SMART goals in our care plans to help them recover and thrive. Whether it’s aiming to run a certain distance or achieve a personal best time, the process of striving toward a goal fosters a sense of accomplishment that fuels further motivation. I encourage my fellow nurses to adopt this practice in their lives, helping them recognize that setting personal goals can lead to profound growth in both running and nursing careers.

As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the profound power of inspiration. Each time I share my story or my love for running with another nurse, I feel a ripple of hope. I hope they see that prioritizing their health is not an act of selfishness but an essential part of being the best caregivers they can be. It’s a message I hold close to my heart: running is not just a physical act; it’s a mindset, a commitment to resilience that can transform our lives and the lives of those we care for.

In the end, I run not just for myself but for every nurse who has ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or burnt out. I run to inspire others to cultivate their resilience, embrace the joy of movement, and discover the profound connections between physical health, mental grit, and emotional well-being. Together, we can create a community of empowered nurses who prioritize self-care, uplift one another, and run toward a brighter future—one step at a time. So, let’s lace up those shoes, hit the pavement, and embark on this journey of resilience together. Because every mile run is a mile closer to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilled life.

Ultimately, running is not merely about the miles we log; it’s about the lives we touch, the connections we forge, and the resilience we cultivate. As nurses, we possess a unique opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating that prioritizing our health is a vital component of the care we provide. Each step we take in our running journey echoes in our nursing practice, reminding us that when we care for ourselves, we are better equipped to care for others. Let us run, let us inspire, and let us cultivate resilience together. Because in every stride, we strengthen not only ourselves but also the very fabric of our nursing community.

-Nurse Iam