One way to accomplish this is to have a multitude of skills, thus building skill security. Skill security earns advancement because you will be helping to achieve your organization’s goals.

Some of the most valuable skills are IV certification, venipuncture, CPR instructor, ACLS certification, leadership, and management skills. Accept every opportunity to learn how to use equipment such as different kinds of IV pumps, peritoneal dialysis machines, and cardiac and oximetry monitors.

Other skills worth developing are technical and business writing, public speaking, teaching, and computer competence. Many nurses consistently turn down education opportunities because they are more comfortable doing the same job every day. They don’t want to change unless they’re forced. It is better to be pro-active, anticipate change, and create the opportunities that you want.

Choosing skills security is challenging and involves hard work. Have the right attitude - be willing to learn and get out of your comfort zone. Spend some of your your free time attending education programs. Read about other specialties.

Cross-training improves your competence. For example, experience in both managed care and physician’s office nursing creates understanding of the other’s perspective. Cross-training in acute care and home care helps you plan better discharges while cross-training in med/surg and psychiatry makes you more effective in both specialties.

If you are a new graduate or have been in the same job for some time, consider asking for a temporary transfer or change jobs every few years to learn a new specialty. Find opportunities to learn something new every week. Volunteer for organization-wide committees or teach a class to staff or patients. Join a public speaking club or a community writer’s group or take courses at local colleges. You might consider joining a civic, theatre, or professional organization. Network with people in other specialties and listen to what they have to say. Get involved and change some of your activities every year for more diverse experiences.

Many free education opportunities are available where you work, but you must invest some of your own money to attend others. Take responsibility for your actions and be sure that your work is done with quality and competence. Honestly assess your abilities, understand your limitations, and be smart and brave enough to ask all the necessary questions.

Put yourself in control. Create the personal and professional life that you want. Practice within your code of ethics, give yourself skill security, and you will have more personal and professional choices.