To Care is Human Work-Life Balance in Healthcare: Caring for Yourself to Care for Others
Feb 3, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Robert Cote, a patient advocate for the VA and former firefighter, shares his journey toward achieving work-life balance in healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of self-care for healthcare professionals, revealing how stress management and setting boundaries are crucial for patient trust and advocacy. Robert discusses practical strategies to prevent burnout, like taking breaks and unplugging after work. His insights remind us that caring for ourselves is vital to effectively care for others.
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Journey From Firefighter To Patient Advocate
- Robert describes his career from military firefighter to VA patient advocate after injuries ended his firefighting career.
- He credits studying work-life balance and teaching colleagues with saving his marriage and improving his health.
Balance As A Teeter Board
- Work-life balance is like a teeter board where small shifts cause big stress effects.
- Staying centered improves performance and prevents personal life from being ruined.
Near Loss Of Marriage From Work Stress
- Robert admits he brought firefighting stress home and nearly lost his marriage until his wife confronted him.
- He learned, studied, and taught balance strategies that restored his relationships and wellbeing.