Being a nurse is a tough job, but being a new nurse presents an even greater challenge.
This can be especially hard in the beginning when you have no references or experience. Learning to navigate this new career path isn’t easy, but with a little bit of persistence, motivation, and persistence, your efforts will eventually pay off.
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Trust Your Education
If you’ve just finished your MSN for nursing education or nursing diploma, you may feel a bit overwhelmed with all the new knowledge you have to learn, but it’s important to remember that your education has prepared you for this.
You know how to be a nurse and (as hard as it can be sometimes) you can trust in your training to get through this.
Motivation Matters
If the pressure is getting to you, here are a few tips to help you cope and stay on the right track during both your education and first few years as a nurse.
1. Recognize the Value You Bring to Your Job
You became a nurse to help people, and that’s exactly what you’ll be doing as a new nurse.
You are a vital part of the healthcare field and your hard work and dedication make a difference in the lives of those around you, and as easy as it may be to get overwhelmed at times, you can also take this opportunity to reflect on how valuable your contribution is.
2. Attend Continuing Education Programs to Stay Up to Date
Continuing education is a way to stay on top of your new career as well as learn some new skills that can help you excel in your role as a nurse.
It’s also a great way to meet new people and make friends, something that can really help you during those stressful days.
3. Use an Accountability Partner or Meet with a Professional Mentor
Staying motivated as a nurse can be difficult, but you can help yourself by making sure you find someone to hold you accountable for meeting your goals. It’s important to have something to keep you on track and motivated.
It doesn’t need to be the same person all the time but having someone who will keep you accountable is extremely beneficial.
4. Develop a Plan for Success
Developing a plan for success is an important part of staying motivated.
It can be hard to do this on your own, but with a little planning and research, you’ll soon be able to visualize what you’re working toward. This can be extremely beneficial when it comes to motivation.
5. Keep a Journal or Blog
Keeping a journal or blogging is a great way to stay on track, especially during times when things may feel out of control.
It can also help you feel more engaged with the nursing community and help you maintain your self-esteem.
6. Attend Nursing Conferences
Continuing education is an important part of staying motivated as a nurse and attending conferences that relate to your specific career path.
7. Get to Know your Role in the Healthcare Team
Get to know your role in the healthcare team and learn how everyone is connected.
This is a great tip because it will help you understand the impact you have on others and may ultimately help you to stay motivated as a nurse.
About Carson Derrow
