The Myths That Haunt Us
By Niki Ballingrud, RN, LALD
As Halloween creeps closer, it’s not just ghosts and goblins that spook us — sometimes it’s the myths that linger in our minds and workplaces. These quiet misconceptions can hold us back, cause unnecessary stress, or make us second-guess ourselves.
Let’s shine a light on a few of the myths that tend to haunt us — and the truths that remind us we can always grow, adapt, and rise above them.
Myth #1: Asking for help makes you look weak.
Truth: True strength comes from teamwork, not from doing it all alone. Collaboration leads to better outcomes — and better days. The most effective teams know when to lean on each other and when to lift others up. When you ask for help, you don’t show weakness — you create connection.
Myth #2: Small changes don’t make a big impact.
Truth: Big wins are built on tiny moments. A quick huddle, a thank-you note, a five-minute pause — they all add up. Change doesn’t need to be dramatic to be meaningful. Start small, stay consistent, and you’ll be surprised how quickly those small ripples turn into real results.
Myth #3: Everyone else has it figured out.
Truth: Nobody has it all together — and that’s okay. Growth comes from learning as we go, asking questions, and owning our mistakes. Instead of comparing your path to someone else’s, take pride in how far you’ve come. Confidence grows every time you choose to keep moving forward, even when it’s messy.
Myth #4: Burnout is just part of the job.
Truth: Burnout thrives in silence. It’s easy to accept exhaustion as normal, but it doesn’t have to be. Rest, recovery, and boundaries aren’t selfish — they’re essential. Taking care of yourself gives you the strength to take better care of others, and that’s where real resilience begins.
Myth #5: Change should be scary.
Truth: Change is a sign of life. Every season brings something new — a lesson, an opportunity, or a chance to start fresh. Growth often hides behind discomfort. Step toward it, even if it feels uncertain. You might just discover the best version of what’s next.
Myth #6: Recognition isn’t necessary.
Truth: Recognition fuels motivation. A simple “thank you” can shift someone’s entire day — or remind them why they do what they do. Whether you’re leading a team or supporting one, take a moment this week to shine a light on someone’s effort. Encouragement doesn’t cost a thing but pays back in loyalty and joy.
Myth #7: If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.
Truth: Comfort can be a quiet trap. Sometimes it is broken — we’ve just gotten used to it. Routines and systems can become so familiar that we stop questioning whether they’re still effective. A fresh look, a new idea, or a bold question can spark innovation. Curiosity keeps things alive — and this season, take a closer look at your “normal.” You might find a cobweb or two worth clearing.
This season, let’s leave those old myths buried for good. The real magic happens when we replace fear with curiosity, isolation with connection, and comfort with courage.
Change doesn’t have to be scary — sometimes it’s the spark that lights the way to something even better.