8 Practical Tips to Fall in Love with Nursing (again)

Working as a nurse is not for the faint of heart. First, you bust your ass to get into nursing school; next, you struggle to keep your head afloat during clinicals and coursework; and lastly, you land a job as a nurse only to realize just how broken the system is and how little you truly know about working as a nurse.

These stressors, coupled with a lack of support and resources, lead to burnout—an inevitable reality of the nursing profession. In fact, in a recent survey, over 2/3rds of nurses reported feelings of burnout. The same survey also identified that 1/3 of nurses plan to leave the nursing profession within the year.

But when you’ve invested so much time, money, and energy into being a nurse, giving up can’t be an option. After all, you got into this role to help make a difference. So, if you’re feeling burned out and ready to hang up your stethoscope, consider my favorite ways to fall in love with nursing (again).

10. Set Boundaries, Avoid Drama, and Stay Away from Gossip:

Nursing can be emotionally draining, and it’s easy to get caught up in workplace drama or gossip. Make a conscious effort to set clear boundaries, both personally and professionally. Avoid engaging in gossip and drama that can add unnecessary stress to your life.

Consider a Pivot:

If you find that your current nursing job is contributing to your burnout, explore alternative nursing roles. Consider outpatient nursing, teaching, private duty nursing, or even starting a side hustle in a related field. A change in your nursing environment can reignite your passion.

Find a Mentor

Seek out a mentor who has been through similar experiences and can offer guidance and support. A mentor can provide valuable insights, help you navigate challenges, and remind you why you chose this profession in the first place.

Remember your “Why”

Reflect on the reasons that led you to become a nurse. What motivated you initially? Reconnecting with your original purpose can reignite your passion and remind you of the meaningful impact you make in patients’ lives.

Read Books on Nursing & Get Inspired

Sometimes, all it takes to rekindle your love for nursing is reading inspiring stories and literature about the profession. Books written by experienced nurses or healthcare leaders can provide fresh perspectives and motivate you.

Prioritize Self-Care:

Self-care is essential for nurses. Make time for activities that rejuvenate your mind and body, whether it’s exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Remember, you can’t care for others effectively if you’re not taking care of yourself.

Keep Things in Perspective:

Reframe Your Thinking: Instead of saying, “I have to go to work,” try saying, “I get to go to work.” Shifting your perspective can change the way you approach your job. Focus on the positive aspects and the opportunities for growth.

Leave Work at Work & Improve Work-Life Balance

Nursing can be all-consuming if you let it. Make a conscious effort to leave work-related stress and worries at the workplace. Improve your work-life balance by setting clear boundaries and making time for activities outside of work that bring you joy.

Conclusion

Nursing is a challenging but immensely rewarding profession. While burnout may seem like an insurmountable obstacle, there are practical strategies you can employ to rediscover your passion for nursing. By setting boundaries, avoiding drama and gossip, considering a pivot in your career, finding a mentor, reconnecting with your “why,” seeking inspiration through reading, prioritizing self-care, reframing your thinking, and improving your work-life balance, you can reignite your love for nursing.