Nurse Leader Burnout: How to Find Your Joy

Although not new, there is an increasing interest in the effects and consequences of burnout syndrome,1 as well as the other end of the spectrum of engagement, satisfaction, and joy in the workplace.2 Burnout, defined as a state of continuous psychological stress within work life,3 has been identified as having a negative impact on patients,4 the workforce,5 and organizations.6 To date, much of the burnout research and discussion has been concentrated on the frontline and direct care nursing staff. However, it is important to note that nurse leaders operate within the same at-risk environments while also carrying the burden of disciplinary, organizational, and operational stress. The health care setting has unique characteristics that provide high potential for nurses to experience burnout.7, 8 Conversely, nurses can derive joy from their work and garner compassion satisfaction, potentially reducing burnout.9 The joy or compassion satisfaction a nurse leader derives from their work may look different than a direct care provider who interacts daily with a patient.