Picture yourself with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing! How does it feel to be part of the growing trend of elite nurses who have many opportunities to practice in all areas of nursing? When you hear of positions that require a degree, you can apply and be proud that you made that important step toward advancing your career.
Where do you want to work? There are so many settings where nurses contribute to the betterment of others. Do you have a vision for yourself? Have you made your wish list of nursing positions? A great exercise to do is to write all the aspects of a dream nursing position you see yourself enjoying and thriving in when you have your BSN. Keep this posted on a wall or on your mirror so you see it every day. It will become a part of you. The first step is to believe in you and know you can accomplish this dream and make it happen by taking action and enrolling in a nursing degree program. The great thing about it is you can continue working while you go to school to receive your bachelor’s degree in nursing. Many other nurses like you have done this and you can too.
As you look at job listings for nurses, you can say yes I can now apply to those positions requiring a BSN. Think of how your career options, your experience, your knowledge and your skills will expand when you give yourself the gift of this degree program.
The Institute of Medicine/Future of Nursing reports that the trend for Bachelors prepared nurses is going to continue to grow. The patient population will increase as a result of the Affordable Care Act and so will openings for nurses and nursing leaders. There is also a trend toward more complex patient populations. Having a bachelor’s degree in nursing will better prepare you to service and provide care for people in these situations. You can have the opportunity to be a leader in your field of practice and enroll in advanced practice exams once you take the first step toward a bachelor’s degree. Think about the positive impact you will have on patient populations as a result of your future positions and experiences. Personally, I believe it was the best step I took in my career and I am sure you will too. What are you waiting for? Explore your options and begin your journey and in a short time you can add BSN after your name. This is just the beginning of an even more fulfilling nursing career while bringing compassion, care, skills and well-being to the world.
Here are some tips for balancing college and a full time job:
1. Schedule your study and writing time for school. Writing down what and when you want to accomplish your assignments makes a big difference in your results. This is called setting your intentions and your brain will follow these guidelines.
2. Schedule fun things in your life so you have balance when you are working and going to school. It is a great idea to give yourself a fun break! It could be watching a funny TV show, going to the beach or park for a picnic, going to a movie or a play with a friend, watching some funny You Tube videos. Choose one and schedule it just like you would a class.
3. Eat healthy foods including plenty of fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water.
You will want to have plenty of energy and brain focus when you are going to nursing school and working. Feeling great mentally and physically will give you the energy to do this. Food is your energy source and our bodies are made up of 70% water. It is important to feed yourself optimal nutrition.
4. Meditate every day so you can begin your day with a positive and a calm outlook. You can meditate sitting up in bed or in a chair. You may want to listen to a meditation CD that resonates with you. There are a variety of options.
5. Have a gratitude journal. Write in it every morning or evening or both. Just a few moments of doing this can change your life and increase your energy as you focus on the wonderful things in your life including the opportunity to advance your nursing education and career.