Nursing has been one of the most respectable professions since the dawn of civilization. However, the circumstances of individual nurses might be markedly different, with your background, personal preferences and other unique needs shaping your career outlook.
With effective career planning and management tips, though, it is possible to build the nursing career of your dreams.
You’ll be faced with uncertainties and unforeseen challenges during both your studies and practice, but with the right level of motivation, you’re more likely to accomplish your dreams.
This guide highlights plenty of motivational factors that can help galvanize your resolve and keep you committed to your nursing career.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? These factors will help motivate you when you’re considering your plans for your nursing career.
Nursing is one of the most fulfilling professions
No doubt, you’ll face a lot of pressure and demand on your time and energy as a nurse. One thing that will keep you going is the fulfillment of making critical contributions to people’s lives and the community around you.
As you advance into more senior nursing roles, you’ll play an even more critical role in creating access to adequate healthcare for people, influencing the quality of life in your community.
Multiple paths to licensure
Compared to other professions, there’s no single correct path to becoming a licensed nurse. You’ll have many options for acquiring the necessary skills and obtaining certification for practice.
For instance, some health institutions offer training programs as an alternative for aspiring nurses who cannot afford to get into a full four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. These include the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, and others.
Note, however, that all nursing licenses are not created equal, and you may have to obtain more licenses to qualify for advanced roles.
Flexible study options
Another key advantage of pursuing a nursing career is that you can complete most of your studies online.
For instance, the online accelerated BSN program from the University of Indianapolis gives you the opportunity to study from anywhere, at your convenience, with the possibility of real-life experience through clinical placement. You can learn all about clinical assessments and treatment procedures, processes for delivering healthcare to people and communities, and preventive healthcare, all from the comfort of your home.
With that, you can stay fully committed to your studies, while also finding ample time to take care of your personal needs and family or to take on a day job.
Finding an effective study method
With a flexible nursing program, you’ll have more flexibility in choosing your study methods. You can choose where and when to study. You can also create your own study modules by breaking up your study materials into parts that are easier to digest.
You also have the option of picking study groups (online or offline) and discussing your study challenges with others who can help you out.
Financial reward
Nursing is a very highly paid profession, and the salaries are also increasing at one of the fastest rates. The latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that registered nurses earn about $77,000 per year on average. Senior nurses take home more than $100,000.
What’s more, nurses also get some of the best workplace perks, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, and even financing for future studies and career advancement plans.
Job security and satisfaction
Lastly, nursing gives you an extra sense of job security. Being highly sought after, it won’t be that challenging for you to find and retain a decent job – even as an entry-level nurse.
You’ll also have many different types of work settings to choose from – from hospitals and health institutions to community centers, nursing homes, private hospitals, or even your own private practice.
Tips to stay motivated in pursuing your nursing goals
Are you ready to pursue your nursing career goals? If so, these tips will help you stay committed to your course.
Decide on your specialization and certification
The first step is to choose the most suitable training program to acquire the necessary skills. Depending on the area you want to specialize in, your certification options include:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate.
- Licensed Practical Nurse/Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) certification.
- Registered Nurse associate’s degree.
- Registered Nurse Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN).
- Joint master’s degree in nursing/doctoral degree in nursing.
Choose the right nursing program
The nursing program you choose can set the tone for the rest of your career, so choose one carefully. Consider factors such as your career goals, budget and financing, lifestyle and personal preferences, duration of studies, and method of learning.
Practice good time management skills
As a nurse, you need to place a premium on your time and find ways to accomplish more important things in less time.
Find a suitable learning style
You might need to experiment with many different learning styles and techniques to find those that suit you best.
Learn effective productivity strategies
Besides effective tie management, take up some productivity hacks to help you accomplish more without feeling fatigued.
Get any support you can
You could make do with any assistance you can get from friends and family, whether it’s financial support, emotional support, help with chores and housekeeping, etc. Find mentors, coaches and tutors to help you with specific career challenges.
Grow your professional network
Be on the lookout for opportunities to rub minds with other like-minded professionals.
Conclusion
Completing a nursing program is no easy feat, and taking on a nursing career is even more daunting. However, with the right level of motivation, you can find satisfaction and fulfillment in your career as a nurse.
