Are You Resilient?

A cancer registrar can experience setbacks for many different reasons.  As the information experts in healthcare they must balance dwindling resources with increasing complexity in data collection along with increasing demands for their resources and expertise.   As with any profession, it is not uncommon for a setback or challenge to get out of control and develop into a full blown crisis.  However, while crisis is uncomfortable it can bring you face-to-face with what really matters and force you to clarify and take notice of something you might have otherwise missed.  It is in these moments that the cancer registrars develop their resiliency and strength of character.   

Here are five steps the cancer registrar can use as they deal with setbacks: 

1. Know that everything you feel, when faced with a challenge, is valid.  It’s OK to validate your feelings as long as you do not become consumed by them.
2. Share your feelings with someone who can be objective and help you to see around the obvious obstacles towards a positive solution.  
3. Focus on the moments in your life, or types of situations you have experienced, that created a positive emotion.  Hold on to these moments as you face the challenge – they are a platform for you to use as you move forward.
4. Surround yourself with peers or individuals that will actively help you focus on your goals and making the right decisions.  Eliminate negativity in your network.
5. Never let a crisis go to waste.  Analyze the lessons and insights and channel these into your strengths.  These experiences will continue to serve you the rest of your life.  Never forget that growth follows setbacks.  Here are a couple of questions to ask:  (1) What can I learn from this?  (2) What is working, or what is right about this?  (3) Where can I use my strengths to help me get through this?

Use these questions to generate meaning and productive thoughts.  Don’t be afraid if the questions bring about an emotional outcome, use these to your advantage by creating something positive and turning them into a strength of character.  

Lastly, decide to look at challenges and setbacks from a positive viewpoint rather than one of failure.  Your attitude and mindset will determine which direction you go.  Focus on what is working and the steps you are taking to reinforce positive actions.  Let your emotions and behaviors amplify the positive intentions and outcomes you wish to receive.  

Winston Churchill said, “When you’re going through hell, just keep going.”  Cancer Registrars may identify with Churchill but more importantly they should adopt a positive mindset and determine to face challenges and setbacks with the intent of developing strength of character and resilience.

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http://www.RegistryMindset.com.  Michele Webb, America’s Cancer Registry Coach, is a nationally recognized, certified cancer registrar (CTR).  She cares passionately about her work and enjoys helping others to become cancer registrars and grow professionally.  She is a motivational speaker, published author, trainer and netpreneur in the exciting field of cancer registry and oncology healthcare.