5 New Year's Resolutions for Nursing Students

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New Year's Resolutions for Nursing Students

With the beginning of the New Year, many of us are reflecting on the past 12 months and planning for a bigger and better year ahead. Whether or not you are usually one to set resolutions, this time of year offers an opportunity for a fresh start. You might set typical resolutions for a nursing student, such as getting ahead (or at least keeping up with) coursework, getting more sleep (which we could all use more of) or eating breakfast every morning (it is the most important meal of the day, after all).

While those are all relevant and useful resolutions, consider adopting a few others that will allow you to really shine as an accelerated nursing student:

  • Make your wellness a priority. With a hectic nursing school schedule, it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself even though you’re an expert at keeping others healthy. Whether it’s making time for an early morning workout or using Sundays for healthy meal prep for the week, block out time in your schedule for focusing on a healthy you.
  • Engage with mentors. It’s easy to get buried under textbooks and clinical rotations, but never underestimate how much you can learn from experienced nurses. This year, make a point to reach out to a nurse in your desired field. Ask him or her to coffee and discuss what they do and why they do it. It will be a great way to get some inspiration while also preparing you for your career ahead.
  • Be a source of encouragement. Nursing school is a challenge. Support your peers through the journey, whether that means studying together or doing something fun to get your mind off of school. It could be as simple as writing little notes of encouragement to your classmates before a big exam! Being kind to others is a proven de-stresser and building relationships with your classmates will continue to benefit you throughout nursing school.
  • Let yourself shine. Don’t be ashamed to be an overachiever! Raise your hand to answer a question in class. Volunteer in clinicals. By taking initiative, you’ll have more opportunities to practice what you’re learning and build your confidence.
  • Practice gratitude. Life is just better when lived from a foundation of gratitude for each day’s little blessings. Staying grounded in your own gratitude is essential to your ability to care compassionately for others. Set aside time at the beginning or end of your day to jot down a few things that you’re thankful for. Notice how this simple act shifts your attitude and experience of the day.

It’s always good to set goals. This year, consider making resolutions that honor yourself and your hard work, as well as those around you. Is one of your goals in the New Year to become a nursing student? Contact us for more information about our accelerated nursing program in Indianapolis or Nashville.