Establishing professional goals is one of the most important things you can do for your travel nursing career. To get to where you want to be in nursing, you need to define your vision of success and detail the steps you will take to make it happen. Goals can be about how you want your career to look in 10 years or your current nursing day. They can also be personal, such as fitness or personal financial goals. There is no limit. Using the SMART system of writing clear, concise, and achievable goals, you can improve your clinical skills, obtain a certification, or achieve things in your personal life. SMART goals are:
- S-Specific. No vague descriptions here; be specific, and decide what you want to achieve.
- Measurable. Make sure you track your progress! When you quantify your goal, you can track your progress.
- A-Attainable. Try to set goals that are challenging but realistic.
- R-Relevant. Choose goals that mesh with your aspirations and values.
- T-Time Bound. A specific time frame is vital, so set a deadline.
The SMART system is the template for constructing your goals. Read on to set goals for skill improvements, certifications, personal achievements, and how to stay motivated and track everything.
Skills
Perhaps your goal for 2025 is to improve your clinical skills. You are lucky; travel nurses have many opportunities for skill development. Choosing various assignments can help you gain knowledge and skills while exposing you to different environments and patients.
Learning new technologies is another way to build your travel nursing skills. As a travel nurse, you constantly use the latest equipment and learn new charting systems, so take time to know what you can about them. It will add to your skills.
If a leadership opportunity comes your way, take it. A leadership role such as charge nurse or clinical coordinator will enhance your clinical judgment and decision-making skills. And always seek feedback to discover areas where you can improve as a clinician.
Certifications
Is 2025 the year for a new certification? If this is one of your goals, it is an excellent one that opens opportunities and helps you build skills. Certifications prove your expertise and your dedication to career development, and there are multiple paths, including:
- Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN)
- Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)
- Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)
- Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN)
Research specialties that interest you and set your goal for 2025. A certification can give your travel nursing career a boost.
Personal Achievement
A new year is almost here. Consider setting clear goals instead of making vague resolutions you are unlikely to keep. Goals can provide you with direction in 2025. There are multiple ways to attain personal achievement this coming year. Here are a few:
- Improve your tech skills
- Develop a fitness routine
- Attend a professional conference
- Develop cultural competence
- Mentor a new nurse
Staying Motivated
Review your goals regularly, use positive self-talk, and reward yourself when you accomplish a goal. You can make the goal part of your routine by using an app or a diary for reminders. Surround yourself with positive people who support your efforts, and if you can, find a mentor who can help guide you to your goal. Keep it up! Forming a new habit can take a few months.
To track your progress, consider writing down good and bad experiences about your journey toward your goal. An app is an excellent way to do this, and there are many good ones. Be sure to seek feedback from supervisors and colleagues for ways to improve and to help you stay focused.
If your goals involve finding a travel nursing position to help you further your career, contacting a reputable healthcare staffing agency is an excellent start. ADN Healthcare places travel nurses in positions that enhance their careers, which has been the case for many years. Let these staffing professionals be your trusted partners in your travel nursing journey.