Uncovering Visions for The Future

The ANA theme for this week of Nurses Month is

Professional Development

“Let us never consider ourselves finished nurses….
we must be learning all of our lives.” 

FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE

This past year has been an urgent call
to action for nurses.

It’s time to lead change.

There are so many places our visions and voices are needed, to lead pathways to change, reduce health disparities, and build healthier communities. The recent Institute of Medicine report on the Future of Nursing underscores the urgency and importance of professional development in nursing.

Most of us know the importance of professional development. It is imperative we seek out learning opportunities to enhance our practice and deliver safe care. Everything we do is guided by evidence-based research, which is constantly evolving at a rapid rate. Sometimes it is hard to keep up! But we do our best because we know the importance of providing compassionate and quality care.  

Enrolling in continuing education programs, obtaining certifications and/or seeking career advancements are often the most common ways we enrich our professional role. Participating in community engagement initiatives, advocating for healthcare policies, or joining local or national boards are additional avenues to consider. Engaging in self-reflection and self-care practices also fosters our growth.

We know we make a difference everyday, so how do we manage our time and energy to do all the things we want to do? It requires skillful navigation to keep focus on what matters most and allocate time to things that benefit our health and well-being. 

It can feel overwhelming, but there are tools to help us gain clarity. We recognize that when our work is aligned with our values, it brings meaning and purpose to our lives. So it is vital to sit in the quiet presence of ourselves and listen within for the next step to emerge.

This week I invite you to take some time to reflect on your potential, maybe things that have been buried deep inside since you began your nursing career. Begin to inspire your visions for the future. Pause, slow down, and gain insight on what you are passionate about. It is our time as nurses to lead change, imagine new beginnings, and restore the pulse of compassion in our communities.

Think about where you are and where you would like to be. If you need some more guidance here are a few questions to consider. It might be helpful to write down your answers. Seeing it on paper brings your thoughts from the subconscious into the conscious mind.

Note: these questions can also guide your personal development. 

5 Self-Reflective Questions:

1. What makes you feel successful, inspired, invigorated?

2. What makes you feel depleted and drained? 

3. What brings you meaning and joy?

4. What are you good at?

5. Where do you see yourself making the most impact?

After reflection, I invite you to:

1. Seek out one person who’s work inspires you. Do some research and find someone who can provide more information and guidance. Good places to start are LinkedIn, any nursing community or organization you belong to, or your current place of employment. 

2. Find a mentor or coach. Having someone guide you offers clarity and accountability. It is so valuable having someone hold space for you to grow and do whatever is in your best interest. 

3. Continue to self-reflect. What you need is always inside. 💌

As you continue to grow as a nurse, call forward what you love and what brings you to life. Doing so will joyfully engage you in your practice and truly enhance your professional role.

Want to learn how to incorporate self-reflection
and self-care into your workday?

Join us Tuesday May 18th at 7pm Eastern for a FREE 30-minute webinar.

This 30-minute introductory webinar will focus on the 7 Dimensions of Self-Care to support, inspire, and encourage your well-being. Let us collaborate and help you uncover what YOU need to grow!

Coaching, Mentoring

If you are looking for a mentor or coach, Pam and I would love to guide you.
Click below to schedule a FREE 30-minute introductory coaching session with us.

If your schedule conflicts with ours, please email us to coordinate your free coaching session.

It’s so important to steady ourselves and restore so we can care for others with as much clarity, connection, and compassion possible. It’s how we will continue to make a difference together. We look forward to connecting with you this week.