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Discussion

Confidence

I just finished my first semester of nursing school. It was a lot of work and harder than expected! I had no previous healthcare experience and was terrified for the first half of the semester. I feel like I got the hang of everything towards the end and am looking forward to next semester.

I already have a previous bachelors degree in a field where I struggled to find work for years. I have wanted to be a nurse for a while, but I keep putting it off until life got a little less complicated. That never happened, so I just decided to go back to school. It was definitely a good move and I'm happy about my choices.

At the end of this semester, I realized that my biggest issue is my confidence in myself.

Since graduating several years ago, I have been unemployed or underemployed. The last few years have taken a toll on my self esteem and confidence. I have quickly realized that this is not the profession for the faint at heart and I really want to do well and to be a good nurse. Does anyone have any advice to help me increase my confidence in myself? I feel like finally things are looking up, but then I have moments when I feel like "uh oh" can I really do this.

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    Hey, I completely identify with what you're feeling -- except I'm not in nursing school yet (just finished Microbio, hopefully my last pre-req). I also have a BA and have been un- and underemployed throughout the past few years, and yeah, it REALLY eats away at one's self-esteem. In spite of that, I've actually done really well in pre-reqs, and that has been my source of confidence. Dwell on your strengths to overcome weaknesses. Every time I am plagued with self-doubt, I think "Hey I'm pretty smart and thousands of people have succeeded in this, and so can I." And if you think you're the only one who is lagging in a topic or skill, just talk about it casually with other classmates, and you'll find out that nearly EVERYONE is lacking in some confidence, and may be more lost than you.

    And if something is particularly anxiety-inducing, make it your goal to "own it." Practice or study the h__l out of it until it becomes your favorite thing.

    Just out of curiosity, what kind of program are you in -- ASN, BSN, accelerated BSN?? I wish you the best of luck through the remainder of your program. You're gonna get there!

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    This is my first semester also! I believe we gain our confidence as we go along. I have too been under employed or under paid. I try my best to educate myself and be an active learner in class. I do every open lab and practice practice practice. We will get there and I am sure you will be great!! Take it one day at a time and learn from mistakes. Practice makes perfect!!!

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