6 Things You Can Do To Make Your Nursing Resolutions More Attainable

If you set the same goals every January and miss them every December, the goals aren't the problem. Your system is. Here are six ways to make your nursing resolutions stick.

1. Start with a vision board.

A vision board is a physical reminder that keeps your goals in front of you. Hang it in your bedroom or keep one in your locker. Decide what you want first, whether that's a new certification, a new skill, or a promotion. Gather your supplies, pull images and words that pull at you, and write down the concrete steps to reach each goal. Keep those steps short and realistic.

2. Don't make too many resolutions.

Stacking up goals feels motivating at first and turns into overwhelm fast. If you need several, give each a realistic timeline. Finish your most important one before you start the next. Multitasking fails you here the same way it fails you on the floor.

3. Build accountability.

Tell your friends and coworkers what you're working toward and ask them to check on your progress. The more people who know, the harder you'll work to follow through. A friendly competition with a coworker adds fuel.

4. Work in small steps.

Big goals are paralyzing. Break them down. If you want a new certification, start by finding the right program. Once you're enrolled, list the materials you need and block out time for classes around your shifts.

5. Make modifications.

Resolutions take commitment, and if one isn't sticking, step back and reassess. Find what's actually getting in your way. Ask for help if you feel under-skilled, or talk it out with a friend if you feel buried. Then adjust the goal or the approach.

6. Keep setting new ones.

Growth shouldn't start and stop with the calendar. Once you check off a goal, set the next one. Nursing keeps changing, and staying competitive means you have to keep moving with it.