Starting School-Remember the Why

Greetings, NSNA members and future colleagues!
Can you believe the summer is over? I know it’s always hard for me to get back into the groove after I’ve just had a wonderful summer but it’s time to get to work! And when shifting back into my school schedule, I like to hold onto my “why?” Many people I’ve spoken to don’t use this thinking process and burn out very quickly when it comes to transitioning back to school. Therefore, I’d like to share it with all of you!
My method is very simple, very cost-effective, and requires all but a pen and a post-it! I have a post-it on my calendar board next to my computer. It says, “Lauren Lodico, BSN RN” in big bold letters. Although it is pretty worn out from making it through three full years of nursing school with me, it holds on because it serves a great purpose. It reminds me every time I get stressed and look at my calendar, wondering, “how am I going to do this?” that I CAN do this. It reminds me of WHY I wanted to become a nurse in the first place. It reminds me of everyone behind those little letters that I want so badly behind my name. And it reminds me that I am fearless, brave, and nothing—not even nursing school—can stand in my way from achieving my aspirations and dreams.
It's not easy to hold onto the WHY. However, it is so easy to fall into the pattern of thinking negatively, feeling burnout, and stressed, and feeling alone in nursing school. But I encourage you. Better yet, I challenge you to reframe your brain this semester and choose the positive. Choose the WHY.
Here are some ways that you can make “choose your why” slightly easier:

1. When you wake up, have your WHY by your bedside. Remind yourself that you can take anything life throws at you today.
2. Do step 1 BEFORE you touch any electronic device. (Fun fact and as nurses we already know this: it messes with your brain waves, especially in the morning).
3. Keep your post-it by your laptop for classes, studying, and other assignments. Remind yourself of your WHY (and get a cup of coffee/tea!) when you feel like you are running low on fuel.

As I always tell everyone I meet, if I can do this, so can you! And I truly believe that. So remember your WHY, make sure you take care of yourself, and have a great semester!
 
Yours in service and signing off for now,
Lauren