There is absolutely no doubt that pursuing an online nursing degree is a daunting task that requires 100 per cent commitment and dedication from the student. This is further exacerbated by the fact that students are at times working or have a family to fend for. At times, students feel that they literally need a miracle to be able to finish all those assignments on time, carry out extensive research for numerous essays, prepare for the nursing exam, and still remain sane! Despite how impossible it seems, with proper planning and self-discipline it is actually possible to be successful in nursing school. Here are a few tips to help you sail through successfully.
Set Personal and Academic Goals
Goal setting is an important attribute of successful people in any venture. Setting goals enables a student to have a vision of what they are striving for. Not having a goal is like attempting to navigate the Pacific without a compass. Setting goals also helps to bring students back on to the right track whenever they appear to veer off course. It is important to remember these goals and to have the discipline to engage in activities that steers one closer to your goals. Keep in mind the benefits of attaining a bachelor of science in nursing degree and this will enhance your resolve to remain focused.
Study for a Short Time every Day
The concentration span of human beings is very small. A computer can perform complex functions for hours, but not human being. Within two hours, our concentration drastically reduces and we are likely to forget or fail to understand anything we study thereafter. It is therefore advisable to develop the habit of reading every day for an hour or so, rather than waiting until your nursing exams are around the corner and then attempting to read a whole chemistry book in one night. This is the surest way to fail!
Take Time Off
When the pressure becomes unbearable, learn to take a break and breathe. Despite the insurmountable amount of class work that might require your attention, take a breath and do something fun. Taking a break has a way of rejuvenating our strength to work and also helps to increase our level of concentration. Even a computer has to be refreshed once in a while after it has been working for a long time. There are also accredited online nursing programs that allow students to plan their schedule and study at their most convenient time, enabling students to create more free time.
Avoid Procrastination
Procrastination is a very common habit among many people, including students. This is a habit that must be desisted from at all costs since every second that is wasted is gone and cannot be recovered. Students must prioritize their activities based on their level of importance and ensure they perform all the activities they planned to perform in the stipulated time. Always keep a journal to help you outline the day’s activities and achievements.
Most motivational speakers say that the tougher a challenge is, the greater the reward. Nursing is tough, but it provides an opportunity to serve and achieve personal satisfaction, and also eke out a decent living. Keep focused and motivated!