As I reflect on the many peaks and valleys of my nursing career, I frequently think about the early days and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Starting as a new nurse can feel like navigating a vast and overwhelming world where each shift brings new challenges and opportunities. From the exhilaration of performing a life-saving action to the quiet moments of comforting a patient, every experience has shaped my journey. I want to share some critical insights—things I wish I could have told myself when I first donned my scrubs. These strategies and perspectives are designed to help new nurses not only survive but thrive in their roles, nurturing both their professional growth and personal well-being as they embark on this rewarding, albeit demanding, career path.
Embrace the learning curve
Embarking on a nursing career introduces you to a steep learning curve, which initially can seem daunting. It’s important to acknowledge that it’s perfectly normal not to have all the answers when you first start. This realization is key to building your confidence and competence over time. Embrace each new challenge as an opportunity for growth. Continuous learning isn’t just a requirement; it’s a valuable tool that enhances your skills and deepens your understanding of patient care. By staying curious and open to new perspectives, you transform everyday challenges into invaluable learning opportunities that propel your professional development. This approach not only enriches your practice but also enhances your ability to make a meaningful impact in the lives of your patients.
Seek mentorship early
Seeking mentorship early in your nursing career can prove incredibly beneficial. Mentors provide guidance, support, and can serve as a crucial buffer during stressful times, helping you navigate the complexities of the healthcare environment with greater ease. Their experiences and insights can steer you away from common pitfalls and toward opportunities for growth and learning.
To find a mentor, start by identifying experienced colleagues whose career paths or professional demeanor resonate with you. Don’t hesitate to express your interest in learning from them. Additionally, many healthcare institutions offer formal mentorship programs designed to pair new nurses with more seasoned professionals. Participating in these programs can provide structured support and help you establish valuable connections within the nursing community. These relationships aren’t just instrumental in your professional development; they also provide emotional support, making your transition into nursing smoother and more rewarding.
Take care of yourself
Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is crucial, especially in the demanding field of nursing. As nurses, we advise patients on healthy habits, but practicing what we preach is equally important. For example, during my many years working night shift, I became a caffeine addict, relying heavily on coffee to push through the long hours. Without getting too into the weeds, this habit didn’t end well and eventually taught me the importance of more sustainable practices. It’s vital to integrate routines that support our health, such as adjusting sleep schedules to ensure quality rest, choosing healthy meals over quick energy fixes, and finding time for physical activity, even if it’s just a short walk through your neighborhood. By actively applying these strategies, we can model the healthy behaviors we advocate for in our patients.
Build strong relationships
Building strong relationships, both at work and in your personal life, is vital for your well-being as a nurse. At work, these connections provide essential support, helping you navigate challenges and creating a sense of camaraderie that makes even the toughest days more manageable. Reliable colleagues can offer practical assistance and emotional encouragement, contributing to a more positive work environment. Equally important are your personal relationships, which offer balance and a necessary escape from the demands of nursing. Nurturing these connections can help safeguard your emotional and mental health, ensuring you thrive both professionally and personally.
Ask questions. . .and then ask more questions
Asking questions fearlessly is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice that signals diligence and a commitment to caring for your patients. New nurses must understand that asking questions doesn’t indicate incompetence, but rather it serves as a crucial part of the learning process. It’s normal to fear appearing inexperienced, but seeking clarity defines a responsible and conscientious nurse. It ensures that you fully understand patient care protocols and medical procedures, thereby preventing mistakes and enhancing care quality.
Encouraging a culture that welcomes and values questions not only supports personal growth but also contributes to a safer environment for both patients and healthcare teams. By asking questions, nurses demonstrate their dedication to continuous improvement and patient welfare.
Don’t rush to leave the bedside
Direct patient care at the bedside offers opportunities for profound learning. While advancing your education and moving into specialized roles are commendable goals, it’s important not to rush these steps without fully embracing and understanding the foundational experiences gained from bedside nursing. Your nursing career is a marathon, not a sprint, and every phase brings valuable lessons that enhance your skills and depth of knowledge. In addition to sharpening clinicial skills, direct patient care deepens empathy and improves decision-making ability. If you plan to eventually leave the bedside, always remember that the early, hands-on experiences lay the groundwork for a robust nursing career, providing the critical skills and insights necessary for any advanced or specialized roles you may pursue in the future.
Remember your why
Reflecting on why you chose to be a nurse is essential, especially when facing the tougher aspects of the profession. Whether it’s working holidays while your family celebrates without you, enduring long shifts that test your endurance, or handling emotionally draining situations that challenge your resolve, remembering your original motivations can serve as a powerful source of strength and renewal.
Choosing to become a nurse frequently stems from a desire to help others, a passion for healthcare, or personal experiences with illness—these foundational motivations should remind you that any day spent caring for someone else is a day well spent. Being a nurse offers the unique privilege and opportunity to be there for people on their worst days, providing comfort and care when they need it most. This perspective not only helps you navigate the emotional challenges of the job but also enriches your sense of fulfillment and purpose, reinforcing the tremendous value and impact of your work in both ordinary and extraordinary circumstances.
More than a vocation
As you embark on your nursing journey, remember that growth is a continuous process shaped by both your successes and challenges. Each experience contributes to your development, not just as a nurse, but as an individual. Nursing has the potential to be so much more than a vocation—it can profoundly impact lives. The impact you have on your patients, colleagues, and the healthcare system is profound. Embrace each day with a commitment to learning, caring, and connection, knowing that your efforts are building a better future for both your patients and yourself. Let your passion and dedication guide you, and take pride in the incredible difference you make in the lives of others.
Joseph R. Travis, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C is a Nursing Professional Development Specialist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is the co-host of WellNURSE, a podcast dedicated to wellness in nursing, and serves as an Ambassador for the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes Foundation. Joey has a background in medical-surgical nursing and is passionate about supporting the growth and well-being of nurses, emphasizing purposeful and impactful practice.
