Monday 26 November 2012

Making Nursing Career Goals

When you're doing the same tasks and routines as a nurse, it can be hard to think about what your career goals are. When you've been doing the same thing for so long, you become too comfortable with it that you won't even have time to think about what your goals and other opportunities are. If you want to put an end to patterns that you really aren't enthusiastic and happy about, setting a career goal should be considered. Avoid burning out and stressing out by considering other career opportunities. By developing your career goals, you begin to reflect on the things that you really are looking for in your career and which specialty you think will give you ore job satisfaction.

So, to help you develop you career goals, here are some useful tips:

1. Choose which specialty you like the most. Are you interested in working in surgical nursing, pediatrics obstetrics? There are so many specialties that you can explore and choose from. If you are not sure which one you want, talk with the people who have been doing those specializations. What they say is going to give you a clear idea of what the specialty is like. If you want to experience it first hand just to test the waters, speak with your boss and ask if you could work in your chosen specialty for a few shifts.

2. Every specialty has its advantages and disadvantages. You just need to find that can outweigh its cons. It is a good idea to jot down the different specialties you are considering, including their pros and cons. Being a travel nurse for example, gives you lots of opportunities to go places and experience different
cultures. However, this also means that you will be missing your family and friends from home. Be sure to choose one that has advantages outweighing the disadvantages.

3. If you are still a student, choose a course that will help you with your chosen specialty. Take additional courses if there is a need. You can also do your own research and studies if the school doesn't offer the subject that you want. If you are already a professional nurse, think about whether you need further education to achieve your career goals. You could take a Master's Degree in nursing if you want to get a promotion or if you want to become a professor.

 By Katrina Millar

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