YOUR ONLY LIMIT IS YOU.
Greetings once again.
I have been thinking about nursing school and some of the things that came to me before the journey began. I was excited, that’s for sure, but I had fears about various things.
It didn’t matter if it was my first or even fourth semester, I had concerns.
I’d like to take the time to address these concerns as well as give some tips. Should you share some of these fears, let me know. If not, then that’s okay.
Also, some of these fears may come to you regardless of where you are in life, it doesn't matter if you are in nursing school.
So, get comfy, and let’s have a talk.
1.
Making friends is always a big one. Starting a new program/school can be stressful, and I tend to keep to myself. There have been times when my shyness is misjudged which tends to make things harder(I am working on that, but grace and space).
However, I have come to realize that I cannot please everyone; I will not be friends with everyone. I aim to keep the peace, but it is okay if we are not close. Thus, I strive to be myself, listen more, and speak less. Eventually, I’ll find my niche and we will support each other.
2.
Making a fool of myself was another. Again, I am shy, thus I do not like to put myself out there.
I have come to learn that one grows from experience, so you cannot live behind the sidelines forever. However, I have also come to learn that it is okay to learn from the mistakes of others.
There is a time to put yourself out there, ask for those experiences, and try to answer those questions aloud. However, there is also a time when one should be patient, listen, and learn, especially as it relates to discussions, supplying techniques to troubleshoot an issue, or dealing with emotions.
Discerning when to do one or the other is an art that I am still learning to master.
3.
Getting things done. This was a big concern after I started nursing school, and it continues to this day.
I have to learn to be realistic in my goals. I also have to know when to say no, even if it seems like I am being rude.
Explain to your love ones your goal, why it is important, and the sacrifices you will have to make. When the time comes for you to say no (even if it means saying no to yourself), remind them (and yourself) about your goals.
Have your dreams written down in your planner and/or placed in a space where you and others can see. It well help to keep you accountable as well as remind others about what you are about.
You have to be disciplined, but you also have to balance it with kindness. In the same breath, listen to yourself, know when to take a break and when to take it slow.
Create a schedule to help your anxiety, but also know that things will pop up.
4.
Nursing exams. Which orange is the most orange?
Nursing exams take time to master. Reading and reciting alone will not help you. Aim to get in as much practice questions that you can. There are many nursing exam books out there that helps. Personally, I used Test Success Series (I didn't have all of them, but the ones I used where helpful).
Remember to be kind to yourself. Your grade does not define you.
Bonus:
Impostor Syndrome. Ever feel like you are not good enough? Ever question your actions or your decisions? Ever feel like you are a fraud and that you do not deserve what you have accomplished?
I think that this point relates to number two, but this goes deeper. It’s more than wondering if you are making a fool of yourself.
Impostor syndrome (or phenomenon) has to do with feeling like you do not belong, like you are not good or worthy enough.
I’d advise you (and myself) to acknowledge your feelings and speak about them to someone you trust and who is strong enough to handle the situation.
Looking at your achievements and doing things to help you realize and sharpen your potential also helps. So you can volunteer or tutor. If you are creative, make things for others or offer to take the over the creative role in a group. You can also exercise your leadership skills within a group.
Again, these fears may come regardless if you are in nursing school are not. They may stem from starting a new position, moving to a new place, or a triggering event.
Regardless, it is important to acknowledge those fears and learn how to confront them.
Personally, along with the various tips and tricks that are out there, prayer is a must for me.
I hope this helps (regardless of if you are a nursing student or not). That is it for now. If you feel comfortable enough, share a fear that I did not mention or find me on Instagram @simplyannareece.
YOU ARE THE GREATEST PROJECT THAT YOU WILL EVER WORK ON.
I have also made some wallpapers for phones and desktop to help you feel inspired for the next school year. If you happen to use them, tag me on Instagram.
Until next time, peace be.
~Simply Anna Reece.
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