Sarah Crawford-Bohl

My mom, an intensive care nurse for many years, had a special ability to address tough topics, traumas, embarrassing bodily functions, or sharing critical feedback.

She always created airtime for normally avoided matters.

With a fierce moral compass that was sometimes incredibly frustrating, she advocated for what was right.

showing me the importance of standing up for oneself and others, even when uncomfortable to do so.

My mom, she died a long time ago now, and I still miss her desperately.

Something I think I miss the most, though, is her always knowing the right thing to do and the way she guided me with that moral compass.

And despite having a couple of degrees under my belt,

Lessons learned from that moral compass, they guide me more than any of my formal learning.

She showed me that as leaders, and I mean all leaders, both formal and informal, we play a pivotal role in leaning into courageous conversations and creating a safe place for others to do the same.

It's probably her strong commitment in this area that inspired me to go into healthcare leadership, a path that often puts me in an area of high conflict and tricky conversations.

But in doing so, exposes me to innovation, change-making, and meaningful work.

It's an incredible career that I'm honored to be a part of, and I owe it to my mom and myself to do it well.

So when I find myself needing courage and confidence, making that moment to step into the abyss of a difficult conversation, I try to remember my mom's moral compass and the principles she worked so hard to nurture in me.

I imagine holding a compass in my hand, the cool metal upon my skin, taking a breath, a moment to pause and ground myself.

I see the directions of north, south, east, and west as symbols, reminders of her core teachings.

North.

I think about the North Star, a guide towards the good and right thing to do.

In tricky situations, I remember my mom's voice.

Be the best version of yourself.

Take the high road.