Why I Love My Job

The word ‘job’ seems to arouse mixed feelings in many employees. To me, there seems to be an implication that a job is something you don’t necessarily like, but for a variety of reasons, you simply must do.

I know people in that situation. No doubt, you do too. Perhaps you’re one of them! My heart goes out to those who find themselves employed in a job that that’s unsatisfying.

I’m so glad that, in no way, describes how I feel about what I do. 

This week, I’ve had the opportunity to speak to a number of aged care nurses and disability staff and carers who’ve taken our Safe Swallowing Education Course. My gosh what a fantastic bunch of people they are!

I noticed in chatting to them, a sense of overload but not overwhelm, a sense of humour in spite of the pressures they are all under, a sense of focussing on the best rather than being overwhelmed by their present reality.

One, whilst chatting to me, was looking after her young grandson whom I could hear happily babbling in the background. It was evident both were relishing the day together. Another was surrounded by and caught up in the contagion of the laughter of colleagues in the background.

Over-worked, under immense pressure – both without a doubt, but exuding patience, kindness, fun, love, not letting the former that take over their lives.

Theirs is a complex task of not only looking after the resident or client, ensuring the absolute best care for them. They also need to be mindful that the resident’s relatives can also be in a stressed state with mixed emotions about the care of their loved one – worry, relief, guilt, sadness, loss – so many emotions.

Our role is to ensure everyone involved in the care of those who need it are supported. Being confident in dealing safely with mealtimes which occur at least 5 times a day, is at the forefront to the education we offer.

Thank you all so much for the wonderful work you do. Please keep looking after yourselves as well.

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