6 answers
Sophia
Student
Yuma, Arizona
2
Questions
Asked
1916 views
How do you manage everything or steps too?
I want to be a nurse, but I’m not sure how people can manage life, jobs, and how to make sure you have everything in order all while being a nurse still?
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6 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Nursing, while demanding Sophia, can be a very rewarding career that can allow you a fulfilling personal life with flexible scheduling. Nurses often have a variety of scheduling options, including 8-hour or 12-hour shifts, while offering diverse scheduling options, including part-time, full-time, and per diem (as needed) roles. You may also have opportunities to choose between day, evening, or night shifts. Some positions, such as those in outpatient clinics, telehealth, or school nursing, may even offer more regular hours and weekends off,
NURSING OPPORTUNITIES
There are various types of nursing, each with its own unique focus, healthcare setting and requirements. Here’s an overview of some common types of nursing professions.
• REGISTERED NURSES (RNs): Registered nurses form the backbone of healthcare. They are often divided into general nurses and specialist nurses. General nurses, sometimes referred to as adult nurses, provide comprehensive care. Specialist nurses, on the other hand, focus on specific areas such as pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, or critical care nursing, among others.
• MENTAL HEALTH NURSES: Mental health nurses specialise in the treatment of individuals with mental health disorders. They play a crucial role in providing emotional support, therapy, and medication management to people experiencing mental health challenges. Mental health nurses work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community mental health teams.
• LEARNING DISABILITY NURSES: Learning disability nurses work with individuals of all ages with learning disabilities. They focus on promoting independence, providing specialised care, and supporting individuals in achieving their full potential. These nurses often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure holistic care.
• CHILDREN'S NURSES: Children’s nurses, also known as pediatric nurses, specialise in caring for infants, children, and adolescents. They work in pediatric wards, neonatal units, and community settings, addressing the unique healthcare needs of young people. Pediatric nurses are crucial in providing family-centred care and supporting children and their families through challenging health situations.
• DISTRICT NURSES: District nurses work within the community, delivering healthcare services to people in their homes. They focus on managing chronic conditions, providing wound care, administering medications, and offering end-of-life care. District nurses are vital in promoting health and preventing hospital admissions through community-based care.
• PRACTICE NURSES: Practice nurses are often based in general practitioner (GP) surgeries and primary care settings. They perform various duties, including health assessments, vaccinations, chronic disease management, and health education. Practice nurses are pivotal in delivering preventive care and supporting patients with their ongoing healthcare needs.
STRONG PERSONAL SATISFACTION
Doing a job where you know you’re making a real difference in people’s lives is a powerful thing. Famous nurses such as Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole have gone down in history as pioneers of care and nursing.
There are few careers that offer the chance to truly help people as much as nursing does. No matter the specialty you choose, you can take from your work the strong sense of satisfaction that only comes from knowing you’ve really made a difference to someone’s life. Whether you work in midwifery, pediatrics, emergency, palliative care, or anywhere else in the healthcare sector, your job offers the chance to help a wide range of people. In addition to a sense of doing something meaningful, nursing offers fantastic opportunities for advancement, so you won’t feel like you’re standing still in your career. You can climb the ladder to Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nurse Midwife, or any other of a wide range of nursing positions.
CONCLUSION
While monetary gain probably isn’t at the forefront of your mind when you’re thinking about going into nursing, rest assured that it does pay well. In fact, even as a nurse just starting out, you can expect to have a salary that is higher than the median national income. If you have experience, you can expect your salary to rise even more. Currently, the median income for practicing nurses is around $83,000 per year, which is more than many other professions you could choose. There are so many reasons to become a nurse. It’s an important and valued job, and you’ll most likely never be at a loss for employment. If you’ve ever considered becoming a nurse, go for it! You definitely won’t regret it.
NURSING OPPORTUNITIES
There are various types of nursing, each with its own unique focus, healthcare setting and requirements. Here’s an overview of some common types of nursing professions.
• REGISTERED NURSES (RNs): Registered nurses form the backbone of healthcare. They are often divided into general nurses and specialist nurses. General nurses, sometimes referred to as adult nurses, provide comprehensive care. Specialist nurses, on the other hand, focus on specific areas such as pediatric nursing, mental health nursing, or critical care nursing, among others.
• MENTAL HEALTH NURSES: Mental health nurses specialise in the treatment of individuals with mental health disorders. They play a crucial role in providing emotional support, therapy, and medication management to people experiencing mental health challenges. Mental health nurses work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community mental health teams.
• LEARNING DISABILITY NURSES: Learning disability nurses work with individuals of all ages with learning disabilities. They focus on promoting independence, providing specialised care, and supporting individuals in achieving their full potential. These nurses often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure holistic care.
• CHILDREN'S NURSES: Children’s nurses, also known as pediatric nurses, specialise in caring for infants, children, and adolescents. They work in pediatric wards, neonatal units, and community settings, addressing the unique healthcare needs of young people. Pediatric nurses are crucial in providing family-centred care and supporting children and their families through challenging health situations.
• DISTRICT NURSES: District nurses work within the community, delivering healthcare services to people in their homes. They focus on managing chronic conditions, providing wound care, administering medications, and offering end-of-life care. District nurses are vital in promoting health and preventing hospital admissions through community-based care.
• PRACTICE NURSES: Practice nurses are often based in general practitioner (GP) surgeries and primary care settings. They perform various duties, including health assessments, vaccinations, chronic disease management, and health education. Practice nurses are pivotal in delivering preventive care and supporting patients with their ongoing healthcare needs.
STRONG PERSONAL SATISFACTION
Doing a job where you know you’re making a real difference in people’s lives is a powerful thing. Famous nurses such as Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole have gone down in history as pioneers of care and nursing.
There are few careers that offer the chance to truly help people as much as nursing does. No matter the specialty you choose, you can take from your work the strong sense of satisfaction that only comes from knowing you’ve really made a difference to someone’s life. Whether you work in midwifery, pediatrics, emergency, palliative care, or anywhere else in the healthcare sector, your job offers the chance to help a wide range of people. In addition to a sense of doing something meaningful, nursing offers fantastic opportunities for advancement, so you won’t feel like you’re standing still in your career. You can climb the ladder to Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, Nurse Midwife, or any other of a wide range of nursing positions.
CONCLUSION
While monetary gain probably isn’t at the forefront of your mind when you’re thinking about going into nursing, rest assured that it does pay well. In fact, even as a nurse just starting out, you can expect to have a salary that is higher than the median national income. If you have experience, you can expect your salary to rise even more. Currently, the median income for practicing nurses is around $83,000 per year, which is more than many other professions you could choose. There are so many reasons to become a nurse. It’s an important and valued job, and you’ll most likely never be at a loss for employment. If you’ve ever considered becoming a nurse, go for it! You definitely won’t regret it.
Thank you for this information for someone wanting to be a nurse that I can look to be in the future.
Sofia
You are very welcome Sofia, Happy Life.
Doc Frick
Thank You Michelle. Volunteering is an act of heroism on a grand scale. And it matters profoundly. It does more than help people beat the odds; it changes the odds.
Doc Frick
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hello Sophia. Being a nurse is a busy and demanding job. You help people, work long hours, and sometimes feel exhausted. Still, many nurses manage their personal lives, families, and careers at the same time. It may seem hard, but with the right habits and mindset, it’s possible.
Planning your time is one of the most important things. Using a calendar or planner can help you keep track of work shifts, study time, rest, and family responsibilities. Having a weekly plan makes it easier to stay on top of everything and reduces stress when life gets busy.
Taking care of yourself should always be a priority. When you're healthy, it’s easier to manage your job and your life. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, and give yourself time to relax. Even something small, like going for a walk or reading, can make a big difference.
It also helps to set realistic goals. Big dreams are great, but they’re easier to reach when broken down into small steps. If your goal is to become a nurse, focus first on finishing school, then getting experience, and growing from there. One step at a time makes the journey less overwhelming.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t have to do everything alone. Whether it’s a family member helping with chores or a fellow student explaining something you don’t understand, support makes a big difference. Even talking about your day with someone you trust can help lighten the load.
Staying organized also makes life easier. Keeping your space, your notes, and your schedule in order saves time and lowers stress. It may take a little effort, but it pays off.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Nursing is challenging, and life can be unpredictable. Some days will be tough and that’s okay. What matters is that you keep going and remember why you started. You can do this. All the best!
Planning your time is one of the most important things. Using a calendar or planner can help you keep track of work shifts, study time, rest, and family responsibilities. Having a weekly plan makes it easier to stay on top of everything and reduces stress when life gets busy.
Taking care of yourself should always be a priority. When you're healthy, it’s easier to manage your job and your life. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, and give yourself time to relax. Even something small, like going for a walk or reading, can make a big difference.
It also helps to set realistic goals. Big dreams are great, but they’re easier to reach when broken down into small steps. If your goal is to become a nurse, focus first on finishing school, then getting experience, and growing from there. One step at a time makes the journey less overwhelming.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t have to do everything alone. Whether it’s a family member helping with chores or a fellow student explaining something you don’t understand, support makes a big difference. Even talking about your day with someone you trust can help lighten the load.
Staying organized also makes life easier. Keeping your space, your notes, and your schedule in order saves time and lowers stress. It may take a little effort, but it pays off.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Nursing is challenging, and life can be unpredictable. Some days will be tough and that’s okay. What matters is that you keep going and remember why you started. You can do this. All the best!
Afrad Mahamed
Operations & Project Management
128
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Afrad’s Answer
Hi Sophia -
This is a very common and important question. It shows you're thinking realistically about the challenges of a demanding career. Being a nurse is a huge responsibility, but with a good system, you can absolutely manage it all. The key isn't about being perfect; it's about creating a structure that supports you.
Create a System for Your Life
1. Prioritize and Plan: The most important step is to prioritize your tasks. What has to get done today? What can wait? Use a planner or a digital calendar to map out your week, including work shifts, personal appointments, and dedicated time for yourself. This prevents you from feeling overwhelmed by a mountain of unplanned tasks.
2. Learn to Say "No": As a nurse, you'll be giving a lot of yourself at work. It's vital to protect your personal time. Don't be afraid to politely decline extra commitments that will stretch you too thin. Your well-being is a priority.
3. Establish a Routine: Routines create stability. Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule, even on your days off. Plan your meals for the week, or do laundry on the same day. These small habits reduce daily decisions and free up mental energy for more important things.
4. Embrace Self-Care: Self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Make time for hobbies, exercise, or just relaxing with a good book. This recharges you, so you can show up as your best self for your patients and your family.
5. Build a Support System: You don't have to do it alone. Connect with other nurses who understand your challenges. Lean on your family and friends for support. Having people you can talk to about your day makes a world of difference.
Managing everything as a nurse is about being proactive, not reactive. By planning and setting boundaries, you'll find a balance that works for you. Best of luck to you!
This is a very common and important question. It shows you're thinking realistically about the challenges of a demanding career. Being a nurse is a huge responsibility, but with a good system, you can absolutely manage it all. The key isn't about being perfect; it's about creating a structure that supports you.
Create a System for Your Life
1. Prioritize and Plan: The most important step is to prioritize your tasks. What has to get done today? What can wait? Use a planner or a digital calendar to map out your week, including work shifts, personal appointments, and dedicated time for yourself. This prevents you from feeling overwhelmed by a mountain of unplanned tasks.
2. Learn to Say "No": As a nurse, you'll be giving a lot of yourself at work. It's vital to protect your personal time. Don't be afraid to politely decline extra commitments that will stretch you too thin. Your well-being is a priority.
3. Establish a Routine: Routines create stability. Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule, even on your days off. Plan your meals for the week, or do laundry on the same day. These small habits reduce daily decisions and free up mental energy for more important things.
4. Embrace Self-Care: Self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Make time for hobbies, exercise, or just relaxing with a good book. This recharges you, so you can show up as your best self for your patients and your family.
5. Build a Support System: You don't have to do it alone. Connect with other nurses who understand your challenges. Lean on your family and friends for support. Having people you can talk to about your day makes a world of difference.
Managing everything as a nurse is about being proactive, not reactive. By planning and setting boundaries, you'll find a balance that works for you. Best of luck to you!
Wyatt .
Retired Corporate Executive
54
Answers
United States
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Sophia,
It’s not about the number of hours a person works, it’s about how much they accomplish in a given period of time. Time management was one of the few things I felt I not only had complete control over but truly excelled at in the workplace. Achieving a so-called “work–life balance” is no easy feat, yet over time it can be adjusted and fine tuned to work in your favor.
Balancing a demanding career with personal life isn’t about doing everything at once, it’s about building habits, systems, and support networks that make it all work together. The first step is always having a clear plan and preparing for the realities ahead. That means understanding the education, training, or skill building required for your field, setting realistic timelines for each milestone, and preparing financially so you aren’t overwhelmed when your workload is heavy. I’ve been a corporate level senior executive, and I can tell you from experience that the ability to keep multiple priorities moving forward comes from treating your time like a valuable asset, managing it with discipline, and making decisions that align with both your long term career goals and your personal well being.
Time management and energy protection are the real pillars of sustainability in any demanding role. Using a single “command center” whether it’s a digital planner, a wall calendar, or an app to track deadlines, commitments, and personal obligations prevents chaos and missed opportunities. Thinking in terms of weekly priorities rather than just daily to-dos allows you to adjust when things shift unexpectedly. Just as in my corporate years, setting firm boundaries is critical, as you cannot say yes to everything without eroding your effectiveness. Sleep, healthy eating, and movement (gym time or other personal fitness) must become non-negotiables, not luxuries, because your performance depends directly on how well you maintain yourself. Grouping similar tasks together from errands to phone calls also frees up blocks of time for rest, family, or personal projects.
The final piece is keeping a long-term perspective. When you’re starting something new or stepping into a high pressure environment, it often feels like you’re just keeping your head above water. Over time, though, you develop efficiency, instincts, and confidence. That’s when you can make strategic choices, deciding what projects to pursue, which opportunities to say no to, and how to align your work with your lifestyle. The people who truly “have it all in order” aren’t juggling everything perfectly every day, instead, they’ve built a framework that keeps the important things moving while allowing them to adapt. From my experience in corporate leadership, the formula is simple but powerful: prepare thoroughly, structure your life intentionally, and focus on long-term sustainability rather than constant short-term perfection.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
It’s not about the number of hours a person works, it’s about how much they accomplish in a given period of time. Time management was one of the few things I felt I not only had complete control over but truly excelled at in the workplace. Achieving a so-called “work–life balance” is no easy feat, yet over time it can be adjusted and fine tuned to work in your favor.
Balancing a demanding career with personal life isn’t about doing everything at once, it’s about building habits, systems, and support networks that make it all work together. The first step is always having a clear plan and preparing for the realities ahead. That means understanding the education, training, or skill building required for your field, setting realistic timelines for each milestone, and preparing financially so you aren’t overwhelmed when your workload is heavy. I’ve been a corporate level senior executive, and I can tell you from experience that the ability to keep multiple priorities moving forward comes from treating your time like a valuable asset, managing it with discipline, and making decisions that align with both your long term career goals and your personal well being.
Time management and energy protection are the real pillars of sustainability in any demanding role. Using a single “command center” whether it’s a digital planner, a wall calendar, or an app to track deadlines, commitments, and personal obligations prevents chaos and missed opportunities. Thinking in terms of weekly priorities rather than just daily to-dos allows you to adjust when things shift unexpectedly. Just as in my corporate years, setting firm boundaries is critical, as you cannot say yes to everything without eroding your effectiveness. Sleep, healthy eating, and movement (gym time or other personal fitness) must become non-negotiables, not luxuries, because your performance depends directly on how well you maintain yourself. Grouping similar tasks together from errands to phone calls also frees up blocks of time for rest, family, or personal projects.
The final piece is keeping a long-term perspective. When you’re starting something new or stepping into a high pressure environment, it often feels like you’re just keeping your head above water. Over time, though, you develop efficiency, instincts, and confidence. That’s when you can make strategic choices, deciding what projects to pursue, which opportunities to say no to, and how to align your work with your lifestyle. The people who truly “have it all in order” aren’t juggling everything perfectly every day, instead, they’ve built a framework that keeps the important things moving while allowing them to adapt. From my experience in corporate leadership, the formula is simple but powerful: prepare thoroughly, structure your life intentionally, and focus on long-term sustainability rather than constant short-term perfection.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Don Holland
Member Service Representative/Food Runner
244
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Don’s Answer
Hello Sofia,
It is important to have a good support group, practice self-care, important to advocate for yourself, create boundaries and be effective with your time management. It is impossible to control everything in life but it is always possible to control what you can and how you react to different moments in life. It is important to find balance and wish you the best when it comes to being a nurse!
It is important to have a good support group, practice self-care, important to advocate for yourself, create boundaries and be effective with your time management. It is impossible to control everything in life but it is always possible to control what you can and how you react to different moments in life. It is important to find balance and wish you the best when it comes to being a nurse!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2431
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. This question is related to your time management. It is not specific to be a nurse.
Firstly, you need to find a time management tool to help, e.g. Google Calendar, MS Outlook, Phone calendar, etc.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need to work. Given nurse may work in shift, you may need to put down the work hours every shift.
2. Make sure you have enough time to sleep
3. Allocate some time to do exercise
4. You can assign the time for your leisure, friend & family gathering, etc.
You do not need to fill up your timetable completely. Leave some 'Me' time for relaxation and rest.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Firstly, you need to find a time management tool to help, e.g. Google Calendar, MS Outlook, Phone calendar, etc.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need to work. Given nurse may work in shift, you may need to put down the work hours every shift.
2. Make sure you have enough time to sleep
3. Allocate some time to do exercise
4. You can assign the time for your leisure, friend & family gathering, etc.
You do not need to fill up your timetable completely. Leave some 'Me' time for relaxation and rest.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!