Other than AALNC and VM, what is there?

Excellent advice, RN1989

The more I learn about the ins and outs of being an LNC along with what I have already learned about myself, the more my own conclusions have been the very thing you have said here.

Excellent post; excellent points.

I see that this is a post from last month but RN1989, your response was exactly what I've been looking for.

I recently was on a jury for a med malpractice case and really enjoyed the experience.
I had never served before and was really surprised that they even selected me, knowing that I am an RN. It was all very interesting and it opened my eyes to the world of LNC.

I am not unfamiliar with being self-employed as my father, brothers and husband all work for themselves. I know it is not easy. I have made my decision about what program will be right for my learning style and I know how much I want to do this. The last issue I need to conquer is the cost. Once I can swallow that, I'll be good to go!
I first had to decide on what program, now I can research the financing options.
I'm both nauseous and excited

Good luck, KeniRN!!

Good luck KeniRN.

I know what you mean about the money. Makes me want to croak every time I have to spend more. I found out the hard way when I was younger that if you shortchanged yourself on the tools you need to do a job - it will take longer, be harder to do, and you will hate every minute of it because it shouldn't have been that hard to start with.

Make up a plan and go from there. I use my grocery budget as a way to get some stuff so some weeks we eat really generic, cheaper meals so that I can buy another piece of software or equipment. Sometimes you will see sales and you shouldn't pass them up. Even if you don't think you need that particular item yet, if you see it for a good price - get it. Don't forget to surf the net and just get an idea of what various prices are so you know when you see a deal.

Case in point - I found a power point presenter with laser pointer on it on sale for $15 when I was walking by a clearance rack. Normally they run $30+. I eventually plan on putting power point presentations together for the attorneys/staff so I decided to go ahead and get the presenter even though I didn't need it immediately. Turns out, when I got to the check out they had marked it down even more and I only paid $8 for it after tax.

Do your homework and it will pay off for you. Don't forget to keep receipts of everything for tax purposes.

KeniRN, I know how relieved you must be to have made a decision. Good luck in your pursuits!

RN1989, I really appreciated your comments too. I keep finding things that I think would be neat to have. I did buy a folding table for my "office" so I have more room, especially to write. But there's so much that I know I'll want down the road. And you're right about getting the best you can to meet the need the first time. I've found that out many times over.

Very wise words, RN1989. I always advise the LNC to be certain and at least purchase very professional high-grade letterhead and business cards. That will be the initial expense in the business. If you cut corners, you will regret it.

Exactly. I passed up a laser color printer on sale for didn't "need" it at the time (had a color inkjet printer and a b/w laser, so couldn't justify the purchase).........BUT, when that inkjet died, I was in a lurch. So, live and learn.........