Nurse Burnout Solutions

027 Why Motivation Isn’t the Starting Point

In this episode, I’m talking about something that trips up a lot of us—waiting to feel motivated before we take action. If you’ve ever told yourself, “I just don’t feel like it,” you’re not alone—and you're not doing it wrong. Especially when you’re dealing with stress or burnout, motivation isn’t usually what shows up first.
I share how our brains are wired for comfort and safety, which means they’ll resist anything that feels even a little uncomfortable—even if it’s good for us. That’s not a character flaw; it’s survival instinct. The good news is: you don’t have to feel inspired to take a loving action.
Inside the episode, I talk about:
Why motivation often comes after action, not before
How to negotiate with your nervous system in a kind, effective way
A simple strategy for building momentum with small, doable steps
I’ll walk you through setting a minimum baseline (like walking to the end of the block and back) and how to approach tasks from a regulated, self-compassionate place—so your brain doesn’t rebel and shut down.
If you’re feeling stuck or deep in burnout, this episode is a gentle reminder that you don’t need to feel amazing—you just need to start small. And if you’d like support, you can always reach out for a free consultation or email me with your reflections. I’d love to hear what small step you’re taking this week.
I’m glad you are here,
Coach Betty, RN

026 Mid Summer Reset 🌿

In this episode, I return after a short break and reflects on the first half of the year—both the wins and the challenges. I open up about what it’s like to navigate the busy, often messier rhythm of summer and why staying grounded matters more than staying “productive.”
I dive into the power of small, consistent choices to support your health, mindset, and nervous system. Drawing on insights from James Clear’s Atomic Habits, I share how simple practices—like a 10-minute walk, daily thought checks, or 5 minutes of mindful breathing—can gently create real momentum.
You’ll also hear:
Why motivation isn’t the goal—regulation is
How to reframe negative thoughts into something more empowering
My favorite mini-habits for summer balance
Easy ways to start feeling more calm, clear, and connected
Whether your summer feels full and fun—or unstructured and overwhelming—this episode offers a soft reset and some next-step ideas to support your mind and body.
Resources Mentioned:
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Betty’s coaching support for nervous system regulation & thought work
Next Steps:
Pick one small habit to commit to for the next week or month
Try a 5-minute breathing break to check in with your body
Notice a recurring negative thought—and reframe it with kindness
Reach out to me, via direct message or email if you’d like extra support or tools
Thanks for listening today,
Coach Betty
betty@aimforgreatnesscoaching.com

025 Rethinking Balance: It’s Not a Beam—It’s a Mixing Board

In this episode, I share a new way to think about balance—not like juggling or walking a tightrope, but more like using a sound mixing board in a recording studio.
Some areas of your life might need to turn up for a season, while others get turned down—and that’s okay. Balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly all the time. It’s about staying aware, making adjustments, and protecting your energy so you don’t burn out.
If work-life balance has ever felt impossible, this episode will help you shift how you see it—and give yourself more grace.
🎧 Tune in to rethink balance with me.
If you are ready for personalized support:Schedule a free consultation by emailing me: betty@aimforgreatnesscoaching.com
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aimforgreatnesscoaching/ 

024 Let’s Talk About Humor (Yes, Even the Dark Kind)

In this episode, we’re talking about one of the most underrated tools for stress relief: humor. If you’ve ever laughed in the middle of a chaotic shift—or swapped dark jokes with coworkers to survive a tough day—you’re not alone.
Humor is a powerful coping skill, especially in high-stress jobs like nursing. I share how it can help reduce burnout, build connection, and protect your mental health—when used responsibly. We’ll also talk about when to be cautious, especially with dark humor outside of healthcare circles.
Whether it’s a funny video, a silly meme, or a quick laugh with a friend—humor helps. And it might be just what you need to feel a little lighter today.
🎧 Tune in now 💬 Tell me your favorite way to bring humor into your day!

023 Books That Changed My Life (and Might Change Yours Too)

In this episode, I’m sharing some of the most powerful books that have shaped my personal growth and my coaching work with nurses and caregivers. These titles have helped me understand emotions, build better habits, and heal from trauma—and I think they can do the same for you.
📚 Books mentioned in this episode:
90 Seconds to a Life You Love by Dr. Joan Rosenberg
Atomic Habits by James Clear
The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
I also share what I’m currently reading and invite you to share your favorite books too!
Whether you're in a season of healing, growth, or just looking for your next great read, I hope this episode inspires you.
💌 Have a favorite book to recommend? Message me—I’d love to hear it! 🎧 Listen now and let’s grow together.

022 Burnout Doesn’t Have to End Your Nursing Career

In this episode, we’re talking about something big—what to do when you’re a burned-out nurse who’s thinking about quitting.
A lot of nurses are feeling exhausted, stressed and overwhelmed.  They think the only option left for them is to leave the career they love.  (Even if they’ve only been a nurse for a short time).
I share why leaving the profession isn’t your only option. You can stay, heal, and feel good in your life again. We’ll talk about how to manage your thoughts, take better care of yourself, and build the confidence to speak up and influence change in your workplace.
You are not powerless in this system. It starts with your thoughts, your boundaries, and your voice.
✨ Take the free Burnout Quiz: aimforgreatnesscoaching.com/burnout-quiz 📩 Ready for change? Reach out for a free consultation 

021 Let’s Talk About Boundaries (Without the Guilt)

In this episode, we’re talking about something that protects your energy, your time, and your peace: boundaries.
I explain what boundaries really are (hint: not rules for others—but clear limits for yourself), and why they matter so much at work, at home, and with the people you care about. We’ll talk about how to set simple, healthy boundaries, how to say no without guilt, and how to stick with your limits—without feeling mean.
You don’t need to do it all at once. Just start small and build from there.
✨ Want more support? 📘 I recommend the book Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud 📞 Or reach out for a free consultation: betty@aimforgreatnesscoaching.com

020 How to Handle Uncomfortable Emotions Without Numbing Out

Feeling Uncomfortable? Let’s Talk About It
In this episode, we’re talking about something we all face but rarely stop to work through—uncomfortable emotions. Whether it’s stress, guilt, or grief, these feelings can take over if we don’t slow down and deal with them.
I explain the difference between numbing out with mindless activities (like scrolling or snacking) and true self-care. The key is being intentional. I also share simple tools to help you feel your emotions without getting stuck in them—so you can keep moving forward, even on hard days.
Need extra support?➡️ Download my free guide: aimforgreatnesscoaching.com/lowerstress123➡️ Reach out for a free 30-minute call—I’m here to help.
And if this episode speaks to you, send me a DM or leave a comment. I’d love to hear from you!
Coach Betty, RN

019 Rebroadcast: Cortisol, Chaos and Reclaiming Your Calm

Rebroadcast: Cortisol, Chaos and Reclaiming Your Calm with Dr. Nicole Smith
In this special rebroadcast, I’m sharing my recent interview on the Antigravity Wellness podcast, hosted by Dr. Nicole Smith, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and founder of Antigravity Wellness. Dr. Smith specializes in helping women navigate perimenopause and menopause through holistic, functional medicine approaches.
We delve into the intricate connection between chronic stress, elevated cortisol levels, and perimenopause. I share practical, real-time strategies to help reduce burnout, manage stress, and enhance mental well-being.​
If you've been feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or stuck in survival mode, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how to reclaim your energy and well-being.
Want more from Dr Nicole Smith? 
FREE 5-Day Hormone Reset: https://social.antigravitywellness.com/mini-course-freebie
Join her free Facebook Group for exclusive content and community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/perimenopausemenopausewomenswellness
Website: 
www.antigravitywellness.com 

018 Further Signs of Nurse Burnout

In this episode, we’re talking about the later stages of burnout: Withdrawal and Shut Down. These stages can feel heavy—but you are not broken, and there is hope. In the Withdrawal stage, you may feel numb, tired of caring, and want to pull away from people and responsibilities. In the Shut Down stage, both your mind and body feel like they’ve hit a wall—like you can’t keep pushing anymore.
If you’ve noticed big changes in your mood, energy, or health—or if you’ve thought, “I’m just not myself anymore”—this episode is for you. I’ll help you understand what’s really happening and share one simple step to start feeling better. You are not alone, and healing is absolutely possible.
I'm glad you are here,Coach Betty 
https://aimforgreatnesscoaching.com/burnoutquiz