Here at Uniform Advantage, we admire those who always strive to be their best and improve the world in whatever way they can. As a medical professional, changing the world is in your job description. Each and every day, you dedicate your time, energy, and passion to putting your mind and body to the test to save or improve the lives of others. Along the way in this fulfilling, yet challenging journey, you are bound to learn insightful, new things about your profession, yourself, and others. Here are our top life lessons and career advice s0 that medical professionals can relate to:

• Believe in yourself: Plain and simple: you won’t get anywhere in your career if you don’t believe in yourself. Success, if it comes to you, is the result of you making the decision to put yourself out there and pursue what you want. Rewards will come to you and your life will be more fulfilling, both professionally and personally, if you have faith in yourself and what you are capable of.
• Be confident: Going hand-in-hand with believing in yourself, confidence is absolutely vital in your career as a medical professional. You will often have to make quick, spur of the moment decisions to save your patient when no other nurses or physicians are near. So, you’ll have to trust yourself and your abilities. Confidence is also key when you are trying to get what you want out of life; so, don’t be afraid to ask for things and go after what you want. You’ll be amazed at what your potential does for you when it comes to life.
• Do your best to get along with coworkers: Even if you dislike your physician or a fellow nurse irks you, it is imperative to maintain face and put out a positive front. In the event that you are in a subordinate position to these colleagues one day, or if you need a favor, you will want to be on their good side. Plus, your professional network will continue to grow and provide you with opportunities for career advancement if you get to know more and more people.
• Be proactive: If you want to achieve something, go out and get it for yourself. Don’t wait for other nurses to organize charts or tend to a patient in need. If you see a situation in which your help could be of value, act. Others will be amazed at your incentive and commitment.
• Don’t dread the long hours – embrace them. Yes, the long hours of a medical professional are exhausting when all you want is to get home, see your family, or plop down in front of the TV for some relaxation. However, try to change your perspective on the over-time and double shifts that you dread: Instead, view them as a challenge that you can overcome and benefit from. It sounds pretty impressive when you say, “At my night shift last night, I helped revive a patient who was crossing the road and hit by a drunk driver.” Naturally, your confidence and credibility as a nurse will increase. More work leads to more opportunities for improvement, success, and learning.
• Always want to learn more. Be like a sponge in your healthcare practice, always absorbing the vast knowledge around you and looking to master new skills. Your hunger and desire to succeed will separate yourself from your colleagues in a very impressive way.
• Set reasonable expectations. Studies conducted by numerous psychologists back this statement: Those who set reasonable, yet challenging goats that are still within reach will likely accomplish these goals and feel a greater sense of personal satisfaction after completing their goal.
• Look for things to be thankful for: At the beginning of your day, perhaps even on the car ride to work, set aside a few moments to think about what you’re thankful for in your profession and personal life. Reminding yourself of the things that you appreciate in life will uplift you on those tougher, exhausting days.
• Enjoy the journey, not just the end result. Most people tend to look towards their goals with the mindset of, “If I achieve ____, I will be happy.” This mentality is set up for failure from the get-go, because it neglects to address how the journey to this goal can be fulfilling as well. Whether you’re looking to get a promotion or salary increase, be mindful of your goal, but also cherish and appreciate the steps you took to get there.

What tips do you have to offer on how to take charge of your career and personal life?