Lindsay Drake, DNP, MN, MPH, RN, CLN, PHN
Patient Care Manager
Mother Baby Center, Mercy Hospital, Allina Health
How do you cope with the demanding aspects of your career?
I set and hold very intentional boundaries. This allows me to focus on work when I’m at work and home when I am home. It isn’t a perfect system, but I’ve found that by setting these boundaries early in my current role, and holding them very consistently, has given me the balance I need to manage the demanding aspects of both my career and my home life.
What aspect of being a nurse leader brings you most joy?
I’m systems-thinker and a problem solver, so I really enjoy seeing the long haul work we do come to fruition and positively impact the patients and our team. I’ve also found a lot of joy in coaching staff through professional challenges, often related to interpersonal relationships and communication at work. Nothing makes me happier than when a staff member comes back and says, “You know that that thing we talked about me trying? I tried it. And it worked!”
How long have you been a member of MOLN, and do you have a favorite memory from a MOLN event?
I joined MOLN about 4 years ago when I transitioned from the bedside into my nursing leadership role. I think my favorite memory from an MOLN event was driving to Duluth with two colleagues that I don’t work closely with and getting to know them better.
Who or what has been most influential or inspiring in your nursing leadership journey?
I love to attend conferences. I find them revitalizing and invigorating. I always learn something and I make it a point to incorporate something that I’ve learned immediately upon my return. Sometimes it’s something small and personal, like staring a gratitude journal, and sometimes it’s much larger, like securing grant funding to bring a new program or tool to our team. Growth is one of my core values and conferences have been fundamental in my ongoing personal and professional growth.
