As a nurse manager, there are many “things” I need to bring sanity and success in the workplace. Here are my top ten things I must have in daily work or in my work environment.

1. A mission. I certainly understand the bottom line, but if I’m not making a difference in an organization that values making a difference, then I’m not a happy person. A mission-driven organization is absolutely necessary for me. I’ll work for the bottom line because the mission drives me to do so.

2. Leaders who lead. I need leaders in my work who make the tough decisions, who focus on change, who listen to associates and act on those voices, who empower those around them to rise up and lead, as well. I’m not interested in following someone soaking up a title and hoarding power only to make everyone else feel insignificant.

3. A team. “Many hands make the load light,” and many brains make the ideas bigger, faster, better. Highly functioning, diverse teams are hard to build; they’re worth the work, though. I need several teams – not only the one I lead. I like being a part of great teams, too. I enjoy being challenged by other brilliant folks. They keep me sharp and questioning the status quo.

4. Agendas and schedules. I move in synch with my calendar. I use Outlook – which I still happen to love despite all the “newer” calendar applications. Color coded blocks, timed reminders, recurring tasks and meetings – I add everything electronically and print a weekly calendar every Friday in preparation for the next week. I cross out the appointments and days as they occur and write in new items throughout the week as they arise. If it’s not on my calendar, it likely won’t get done.

5. Optimism and humor. I need to be around people who love what they do. It makes work better. I can go anywhere to be around miserable people, but why? Life is too short for being miserable. If I spend 40+ hours each week at “one” place with the same people, it better be good. It doesn’t always have to be rainbows and puppy dog kisses, but it does need to be a kind place the majority of the time. And, it’s always nice to work in a place where laughter is a norm rather than the exception.

6. Professionalism. People in the workplace need to do what they said they would do. In a timely manner. With respect for all. In addition and as a nurse, it’s amazing the difference you can feel when working in a organization that values professional nursing. A-maz-ing.

7. Dreams and goals. Who wants to be in the same place this time next year? Not me. I need to work in a place that strives to be better (for the mission and for our patients) and encourages everyone else to do the same. The workplace should use the past to reach toward the future.

8. Breaks. Who doesn’t need a break in and from the workplace? We all do! Working in an organization that realizes that and encourages that, though, is an entirely different level of work-life balance.

9. Thanks. It is important to me to have the opportunity to both give and receive 360° private and public thanks. Knowing that I am doing a good job and telling my team members and colleagues they are making a difference, as well, is vital to my success in the workplace. Feedback is good.

10. Courage. It’s not easy leading and managing others. There are many difficult situations and conversations throughout the course of work with team members, leaders, patients, family members, colleagues. It takes courage to do the right thing in a timely manner. Simple – not easy.