Help! I don't know about this nursing thing!

Is your path looking a little uncertain? Are you second guessing your decision to go to nursing school or wondering if you should change careers entirely? I've been there! And I want to share a few things that helped me. 

1. Realize you are not alone. If you haven't read my nursing story yet, check it out here. I struggled throughout college and several years after wondering if I had a made a mistake and why I seemed to be the only one struggling. You are NOT alone.

2. Shadow other nurses. If you are in high school or college, find a nurse that you can spend a shift with. I shadowed in a private school, an ER, and a radiation oncology unit, and talked to many other nurses, to understand more what types of nursing were available. If you are already a nurse, talk to nurses on other floors to get an accurate picture of their job.

3. Branch out to other interests. Your life doesn't have to be 100% nursing. I do copywriting and editing, play the piano, am very involved in my church, and am currently working at a camp where I do all sorts of non-nursing things too!

4. Remember your why. Why did you originally choose nursing? Does that reason still apply? If you are in nursing to help people and make a tangible difference in your community, rest assured that you are accomplishing your purpose, even if you don't see results every day.

5. Get some rest. Nursing is physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting. Get outside, go on a vacation, take those naps, get coffee with friends, do what energizes you to get up tomorrow and be the best you can be. 

6. Don't be afraid to change! I know so many people who changed majors or careers and are now thriving in new fields. It doesn't matter how long you have been in nursing, if you decide you need to pursue a new path, then go for it! 

 If these thoughts are resonating with you I would love to help you in any way I can! Feel free to reach out at studentnurseteacher@gmail.com or my Instagram!

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