11 Practical Ways To Build Self-Confidence As A New Grad Nurse


Written By: Darby FaubionDarby Faubion RN, BSN, MBA

Darby Faubion is a nurse and allied health instructor with over 20 years of clinical experience. Darby lives in Louisiana and loves exploring the state’s rich culture and history. Darby has a passion for caring for veterans and a special interest in those affected by post-traumatic stress disorder. In her quest to make a difference for veterans, she founded a non-profit called “Operation Battle Buddy.” Read Full Bio »»
RN, BSN, MBA

Graduating from nursing school and becoming a licensed nurse is an exciting time! During this time of transition, new nurses experience a wide range of emotions. One thing I have seen in my 25+ years as a nurse is that many new nurses struggle to build self-confidence. As a nursing instructor, it was normal to have at least a few students in every class ask, "What are some practical ways for new grad nurses to build self-confidence?”

Every nurse is different, and building self-confidence may come easier for some than others. In this article, I will share what I believe are 11 practical ways to build self-confidence as a new grad nurse. By implementing these tips, you can step into your career as a new nurse with the confidence you need to succeed!



What Are Some Practical Ways For New Grad Nurses To Build Self-Confidence?

(The following are the 11 practical ways to build self-confidence as a new grad nurse.)


WAY #1: Seek Experienced Mentors

One of the most important things you can do to build self-confidence as a new grad nurse is to find experienced nurses willing to mentor you. Seasoned nurses can offer guidance, support, and insight from their personal experiences to help you navigate the complexities of your new role. Having worked in clinical roles, administrative roles, and healthcare education, I cannot stress the importance of having experienced mentors who will encourage and support you as a new grad nurse.

Good mentors will help you identify career development opportunities, develop essential skills, and expand your professional network. Having a qualified mentor to guide you can help reduce any feelings of stress or being overwhelmed, which are natural responses to being a new nurse. Their support can help make your adjustment to your new role easier.


WAY #2: Participate in Simulated Training Opportunities

I believe it is important to remember that just because you graduated nursing school and earned your license, you are not expected to know everything or get everything right. We all have things we need to learn or skills that need to be honed. Simulation training sessions offer opportunities for you to practice and refine your skills in a safe environment.

Many hospitals and healthcare facilities have simulation training available in-house, allowing staff time to participate in hands-on learning and skills development. Even if your employer does not have simulation training opportunities available within your facility, chances are that they have connections with outside facilities and educational institutions that facilitate training for new hires.


WAY #3: Develop Good Communication Skills

Effective communication is an essential skill for all nurses, regardless of their years of experience. As a new nurse, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to communicate with more experienced nurses and doctors. I understand that feeling all too well. However, now that I have more than 25 years of experience in clinical nursing and healthcare education, I can tell you that you'll get there!

The best way to develop good communication skills is to actively engage with your patients and healthcare team. Practice clear, concise speaking and active listening. Also, be empathetic towards patients and their loved ones, as this is a form of therapeutic communication that helps build rapport and trust, establish strong nurse-patient relationships, and enhance your self-confidence.


WAY #4: Learn to Manage Time Wisely

I don’t know about you, but I always seem to feel better when I get my work done on time. There is just something about that feeling of accomplishment that is so much better than worrying or stressing about tasks left undone. Because of that, I believe learning effective time management strategies is an excellent way to build self-confidence as a new grad nurse.

Managing time wisely and becoming comfortable in your new role go hand in hand. There are several ways you can manage time wisely. First, learn to prioritize tasks and delegate non-essential tasks to unlicensed assistive personnel or other qualified team members. When you have a little downtime, take advantage of it by restocking supplies or completing nursing notes. Also, good time management means knowing when to be flexible. After all, in healthcare, you never know when the unexpected may happen. If you are flexible, you can adapt to changes while still managing your time effectively.


WAY #5: Build a Network of Supportive Peers

Building good relationships with other nurses, supervisors, and team members is a great way to establish a strong support system. When you have a network of supportive peers, they can offer constructive feedback and encouragement, which helps boost your confidence.

One thing I love about finding a good support network is you learn not only how you want to be treated, but also how to treat others in your situation. As a nurse leader, I loved seeing how new nurses would grow and develop with the right support. When you have the right group of people supporting you, you will one day be able to return the favor to other new nurses.


WAY #6: Get Experience Through Volunteer Opportunities

Another excellent way to build self-confidence as a new grad nurse is to gain experience by volunteering. Volunteering in diverse healthcare settings gives you exposure to different patient populations and scenarios. As you volunteer, you will gain additional experience, develop a broader skill set, and experience an increase in your self-confidence.


WAY #7: Commit to Lifelong Learning

As a new grad nurse, it is easy to think that you are finished with studying and know what you need to get your job done. If you finished nursing school and passed the NCLEX-RN, you do have enough knowledge to start an entry-level position in nursing. However, that is only the tip of the iceberg!

Nursing is a field that is ever-evolving. New technologies, research, and practices are introduced daily at some level. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to commit to a mindset of lifelong learning. By embracing a mindset of continuous learning, you can stay up-to-date on important issues and trends in healthcare, which makes you feel more competent and builds self-confidence.


WAY #8: Practice Self-Care

As nurses, it is ingrained in our being to be caregivers. We give of ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Something I have learned through my many years as a nurse is that it is crucial for nurses to be diligent and practice self-care. After all, it is challenging to care for others if we are not well cared for.

Self-care involves several aspects, including physical, psychological, emotional, social, professional, environmental, spiritual, and financial wellness and care. Each of these areas of self-care contributes to your overall well-being and ability to care for others. Self-care can be as simple as eating a well-balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise and adequate rest, or as complex as knowing when to limit your interaction with others to protect your mental or emotional well-being. When you practice self-care interventions, it creates an overall sense of well-being, which contributes to improved levels of self-confidence.


WAY #9: Learn to Celebrate Your Accomplishments

When I first started out as a nurse, one of my mentors told me that no matter how big or small they seem, it is important to recognize and celebrate your achievements. I have never really been one to pat myself on the back, if you know what I mean. Still, I learned that it is okay to acknowledge personal accomplishments. When you reflect on your accomplishments, it can help build self-confidence as a new grad nurse and inspire you to continue improving.


WAY #10: Get Feedback from Experienced Nurses

Another way to build self-confidence as a new grad nurse is to seek feedback from experienced nurses. Constructive feedback from mentors and supervisors can provide insight into your strengths and any areas that need improvement. As you consider their feedback and act upon it, you will enhance your skills, which helps boost your confidence!


WAY #11: Have a Positive Attitude

I have heard so many people before say, “I am my own worst enemy.” Unfortunately, many of us do have a tendency to be harder on ourselves than we should be. When you are too hard on yourself, it can negatively impact your confidence. Instead, try cultivating a positive attitude. Surround yourself with people who look on the bright side of things and exude positivity. Practice positive self-talk, focus on your strengths, and set realistic, achievable goals. Most of all, when things do not go as planned, do not be so hard on yourself! Even nurses with years of experience have some days that are better than others. The key to success and building self-confidence is to take it all in stride and work to make each day better.



My Final Thoughts


If you are a new nurse struggling with confidence, you may wonder, “What are some practical ways for new grad nurses to build self-confidence?” Building self-confidence in nursing takes time and involves being self-aware. In this article, I answered that question by sharing 11 practical ways to build self-confidence as a new grad nurse. By embracing these tips, you can overcome the challenges of being a new nurse, enhance your skills and competence, and become a valuable member of the healthcare team. With dedication and hard work, you will experience increased confidence and feel prepared to positively impact your patients, team, and the healthcare field!



List Of Sources Used For This Article


1. “30 Top Therapeutic Communication Techniques in Nursing + How to Use Them” (nursingprocess.org)
2. “10 Time Management Tips for New Nurses” (healthecareers.com)
3. “Self-care for Nurses- 25 Proven Strategies to Take Better Care of Yourself” (nursingprocess.org)


Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and allied health instructor with over 20 years of clinical experience. Her work history includes clinical experience in pediatrics, mental health, addiction and behavioral disorders, geriatrics, wound management, and communicable disease. Darby has worked in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health and hospice agencies. Darby also has experience as a nursing and allied health educator at both community college and university levels. Her love for nursing and nursing education led to her becoming a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach.