It may very well be true that a strong sense of altruism drove you towards a career in nursing. You made a noble decision and chose to dedicate your time to making a positive impact by helping those in need. Knowing this, it’s easy to see why some might think that focusing on your appearance is a vain and unnecessary endeavor for a nurse.
But this couldn’t be further from the truth, as looking and feeling your best has a major impact on not only yourself but also those around you. Being more confident and less concerned about your appearance allows you to focus on the task at hand and form better connections with patients and coworkers.
With your hectic schedule and endless responsibilities, the premise of gliding in a cloud of gorgeousness can seem a bit far-fetched. Fortunately, it doesn’t take a great deal of time or effort to look great as a nurse. All you need is the right mindset and a bit of know-how. Read on to learn about how you can look and feel your best as a nurse.
Fitting In
Professionalism is just as important in the hospital as it is in the office. If you look like you know what you’re doing, you’ll make a greater impression on your supervisors and appear more trustworthy to patients.
A simple way to enhance your professional image as a nurse is to ensure that your uniform fits your body. Pant length and neckline depth are some of the most frequently overlooked points.
- Your pants shouldn’t look like you’re about to wade through water, but they also shouldn’t be so long that you can easily trip over them.
- If your top is too low, you can layer a t-shirt or camisole underneath. Don’t forget to keep your scrubs clean and crinkle-free.
Staying Healthy
The most effective way to bring out your natural beauty is to work on it from the inside.
Start with your diet.
What do you eat in the morning? Do you prepare a healthy lunch, or do you just opt for the most convenient option? Focus on adding more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds into your diet while avoiding anything greasy, sugary or artificial. Meal-prepping can help you save time and avoid unhealthy snacks.
Eating healthy doesn’t just keep your weight in check. It will also enhance your focus and keep you energized throughout the day. Feeding your skin and hair the right nutrients can also make a noticeable difference.
Don’t forget to complement your diet with a consistent exercise routine.
The internet is home to an endless list of resources detailing short exercises that you can easily incorporate into your busy week. Use your days off to participate in more involving activities such as swimming, cycling, yoga, and Pilates. Just like a healthy diet, frequent exercise goes a long way in helping you perform your best at work.
Don’t forget to stretch – a job where you’re constantly on the move can put a lasting strain on your joints, which might lead to more serious complications in the future. A simple stretching routine can help you maintain your flexibility and prevent injuries. It will also help you get more out of your workouts.
Good Hair Day
Just five minutes is all you need to prepare a professional and attractive hairstyle for the day ahead. The right style doesn’t just look good; it also demands minimal attention while you work. Here are five great options to consider:
- Slicked-back high ponytail: A classic no-fuss look that remains popular to this day.
- Bohemian braids: Even the messiest mane can be turned into a crown of tidy braids in minutes.
- French bun: Gently pull down a few loose strands from your bun for an equal parts neat and sexy look.
- Updo: Create a ponytail before winding it into a bun for a timeless and sophisticated style.
- Bobs: Perfect for medium-length hair, a bob is attractive and easy to maintain.
Looking Ahead
Let’s assume that you killed it at school, obtained your master’s and are currently working as a registered nurse. That alone is a major achievement and you have every right to be proud of how far you’ve come. But it’s not the end of the road. There’s still much to achieve, and having something to work towards can help you stay motivated.
Take a moment to consider the next step in your career. Where can you take it from here? Perhaps you want to leverage your leadership skills and study to obtain a DNP nurse executive degree. Maybe you want to travel and help patients around the world. Once you’ve identified your goal, you can put together a plan of action and start moving forward.
Getting Some Rest
As a nurse, it’s not uncommon to witness something in the emergency room that makes it difficult to fall asleep. At the same time, your work environment demands a focused and active mind that can stay engaged throughout the day. Without sufficient sleep, this is impossible. You need at least seven hours of shuteye to perform at optimal levels.
It’s also true that getting enough rest every night can improve the appearance of your skin, preventing blemishes and giving it a firmer, more even tone.
- Focus on following a consistent sleep schedule. Eventually, your body will wake up naturally at the right time.
- Avoid distractions such as television and social media before bed. Try to read a book or meditate instead.
- Ensure that your room is cool, dark and quiet.
- Try exercising in the morning or early afternoon, as a late evening workout can keep you awake.
- Invest in a comfortable pillow and mattress that supports your body.
Conclusion
As a bonus tip, one should never underestimate the power of gratitude and loving what you do.
A reliable salary, paid vacations, advancement opportunities, job security and a work environment that’s interesting, challenging and dynamic are just some of the benefits of being a nurse. Remember this and your job will serve as an endless source of joy and inspiration.
