Changing careers at any age is perfectly acceptable and it is something that should be embraced. When it comes to physically changing careers, the whole process can leave you with doubts and questions, but in reality, when the process is broken down into manageable bites, you can see that the career change becomes all the more realistic and achievable, especially as time passes.
Accepting that you are ready for a change and then physically and mentally preparing for change is just as important as anything else you will do. Before you embark on a new career you have to make the transition as smooth as possible and part of this transition will involve you returning to studying. Getting back into education might sound overwhelming, but do not panic as there are lots of online opportunities that can be fit inand adapted around your current lifeand work commitments.
Deciding That You Want a Change
If you are lacking the motivation to see through your days at work or if you are struggling to enjoy your time at work the warning signals could be flashing. The warning signals could well be signaling that you are ready for a career change. Spotting the warning signals and then taking action is important. Deciding that you want a change and then deciding you are ready is a big step to make. Once you have made this step and this commitment, you are in fact ready to begin transitioning towards a new career.
How to Make a Smooth Career Transition
To smoothly transition into a new career you have to accept that your old career is over. Once you have come to terms with this, then you are ready to jump into the next phase of your life. You will of course not be able to start a new career in nursing without a relevant qualification or educationand sothis should be the first thing that you focus on.
Studying to Become a Nurse Online
You know that your future lies in nursing, so you now need to start looking at online programs and getting your nursing resumes together. Online programs offer you a great deal of flexibility and they are ideally suited to learners who have other ties, and commitments to keep, such as family responsibilities, or work ties. When you look at Elmhurst University’s online accelerated BSN nursing programs you see very clearly and very quickly just what is on offer. Within an accelerated nursing program, you get the opportunity to qualify as a nurse in a time frame of under two years. Of course, studying online is intensive and it will require your physical and mental dedication, but if you are passionate about beginning a new career as a nurse, an accelerated program should be realistically within your sites.
You could even think about obtaining a PALS certification online as it’s one of the most important qualifications for a nurse.
Choosing the Right Provider
When it comes to choosing the right provider for your program, you want to know that you are in safe and trusted hands. It can be difficult spotting real opportunities from the fake ones andthis is why it is important to do your due diligence. Take some time out to read reviews and to look at recommendations. Also, take time to contact the educational provider you are interested in studying with. Taking time to establish who the right provider is and asking questions to establish suitability is what you need to be focusing on. If you do not get the right provider for your nursing program online, then you may struggle to enjoy your studies and you may develop a distaste for your new career even before you have started.
Successfully Studying Online
If you are new to studying online, or if it has been a while since you studied from home and online, then it may be beneficial to begin setting studying targets. Balancing your home life and your studies can be challenging. Carving out time can be difficult, but with persistence, you can get the time you need to study. When studying online you need to be driven and you need to be motivated. You will have to push yourself if you want to achieve success, so ensure that you are mentally ready for your upcoming period of study.
Mental Health and Well-being Through a Period of Change
You are undergoing some big changes at the moment. You are leaving your existing career behind, to pursue your passion within nursing. These changes can affect your well-being, whether it shows or not. It is important that you prioritize your mental health and well-being at all times, especially in this period of change. Failing to deal with issues, concerns, or even worries may impact your studies and it may impact how you feel about changing careers, so do not overlook the importance of strong and positive mental health.
Finishing Studying and Finding Your First Nursing Position or Role
Time moves very quickly and as your period of studying comes to an end it is time to start looking for your first nursing position. Looking online and also using agencies will help you to get a position or role that is right for you and your circumstances. Getting the right role for you starts off with a good resume. If your resume does not stand out and grab attention, then you will not even get to an interview. Your resume needs to be informative and up to date. Ideally you will also have a targeted cover letter that gains the reader’s attention. Once you have secured an interview, it is time to brush up on those interview skills and questions. Having a variety of answers pre-prepared and also brushing up on interview etiquette will be beneficial and will ensure that you do well in any interview.
Starting Your Career the Right Way
If you have completed your studies successfully and if you are still passionate about nursing, then you will get a nursing position. Once you have your first position under way it is time to start setting goals and targets. To get the most out of your nursing career, you want to constantly push yourself to achieve more and be better. Starting off your career in the right way and maintaining both focus and dedication will ensure that you achieve any targets or goals you set yourself.
