Hi there, future nurse!
I want to take a moment to talk directly to you as you navigate your final year of nursing school. You’re in an extraordinary place right now—a mix of excitement, stress, exhaustion, and maybe even a little doubt. I remember those feelings vividly, and I want you to know that what you’re experiencing is completely normal.
This year is challenging, but it’s also transformative. You’re learning not just the technical skills of nursing but also how to trust yourself and your abilities. You’re shaping the nurse you’re going to become. And while this road may be bumpy at times, I promise it’s worth every step.
Find Focus by Taking One Step at a Time
During my last year of nursing school, I often felt like I was drowning in to-do lists—clinical prep, assignments, exams, and everything in between. What saved me was learning to focus on one thing at a time.
Ask yourself: What’s the most important thing I can do right now? It might be preparing for a clinical shift, reviewing NCLEX-style questions, or just getting a good night’s sleep. Breaking your workload into smaller tasks not only makes things feel more manageable but also helps you build momentum.
Why Journaling is a Game-Changer
When I was in nursing school, I didn’t realize how much I needed an outlet until I started journaling. Writing down my thoughts, worries, and even my proudest moments gave me clarity and perspective.
Journaling helped me process the emotional weight of caring for patients and the immense pressure I felt to learn everything. It became a space where I could reflect, vent, and celebrate small victories.
That’s why I created "My Journey to Becoming a Nurse Digital Journal"—to give you a space to capture your experiences during this transformative time. It’s filled with prompts designed to guide you through your thoughts and feelings, from clinical reflections to moments of gratitude. You’ll find it on my website, and I hope it becomes a comforting companion for you, just as journaling was for me.
Take Time to Recharge
When nursing school feels overwhelming—and trust me, it will—one of the simplest yet most effective ways to reset is by taking a walk. I can’t count the number of times I felt completely stuck, mentally drained, or emotionally exhausted. In those moments, stepping outside and letting the fresh air hit my face often felt like hitting a reset button.
Walking does more than just get you moving; it clears your mind and helps you reconnect with yourself. It’s a moment to breathe, reflect, and let go of the stress that’s been building up. Even a short 10-minute walk can do wonders for your mindset and energy levels.
That’s why I created "A Walk with Harper", a video channel designed to inspire and motivate you to take those steps—even on your busiest days. The videos feature beautiful trails and serene landscapes from around the world, ranging from quick 5-minute resets to longer, peaceful 20-minute walks. Throughout each walk, I’ll gently encourage you to keep going, to soak in the beauty of your surroundings, and to remember that every step you take is a small act of self-care.
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, lace up your shoes, grab a quick moment for yourself, and join me for a walk. You deserve it, and I promise you’ll return feeling a little more centered, a little lighter, and ready to tackle whatever comes next.
Keep Your Why Front and Center
When motivation wanes, remind yourself why you chose this path. Think about the lives you’ll touch, the comfort you’ll provide, and the impact you’ll make. Nursing is a calling, and your dedication now is preparing you to answer that call with confidence and compassion.
You’re Almost There!
The final year of nursing school is about perseverance. Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay to ask for help. Lean on your support system, take care of yourself, and celebrate your progress—even the small wins.
I’m so proud of you and all that you’re achieving. Stay focused, stay motivated, and keep journaling—you’re writing the story of an incredible journey. And when you need a moment to breathe or a little encouragement, I’ll be here with my journals, my walks, and my heartfelt support.
You’re almost there, future nurse. Keep going—you’ve got this.
With encouragement,
Harper
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