Building resilience to stress and external pressure

Case study background

 

Meet Olivier. He’s the head nurse of the oncology department of a major university hospital.

​

In the past few months, Olivier’s performance has suffered due to his high anxiety levels and he’s having problems sleeping. His commitment to a “higher purpose of being of service” and his difficulty saying “no” have had a negative impact on his performance and physical health. He’s even started to reconsider what previously seemed like his ideal job.

​

​

Coaching objective

​

Olivier needs to increase his ability to balance energising and draining activities, rediscover balance in his life, and reconnect with moments of lightness.

​

​

Coaching in practice

 

• Recognise the distinction between service and sacrifice and practice self-observation so Olivier develops his awareness of both in daily life.
   

• Explore the emotion of guilt when saying “no” and challenge the “standards of life” related to this emotion.
   

• Develop physical techniques for Olivier to relax and cultivate his peace of mind.
   

• Decline some activities that drain Olivier’s energy and plan regular periods of time for him to “take care of himself”.

​

​

Results

 

Olivier rediscovered the true meaning of his job and is now able to organise his activities in a much more balanced and meaningful way.

 

He’s not allowing feelings of guilt to overwhelm him and he is once again performing above the standards of his organisation.

​

​

Names have been changed to maintain client confidentiality