It’s that time of year again. It’s time for everyone to remember the past year, to look at the ups, the downs, the highs, and the lows of 2006. What was your best memory? What was your worst moment? After a little (and sometimes a lot) of evaluation, most people sit down and make the all-important New Year’s Resolution. What will yours be this year?

Some people promise themselves that they’ll get in shape, while others will finally kick that smoking habit. Some vow to find love, while others will find a way to get out of that massive credit card debt. Aside from the personal resolution, why not toss in a nursing resolution for 2007? Once again, there are limitless options, but here’s our list of 10. Perhaps you’ll find one that will fit you perfectly.

1. Pass the NCLEX®. Study hard, get lots of sleep, and get it done. After you put this little obstacle behind you, the sky is the limit in the world of nursing.
2. Get a young person interested in nursing. With talk of the nursing shortage everywhere, do your part by getting someone interested in the profession. Plus, there’s nothing quite like being a role model to a child or student in your community.
3. Help out a classmate. Is there someone you know who is having a really tough time figuring out this whole nursing thing? Can you see the math and science running circles around his or her head? Well, help ‘em out. A lasting friendship may be the end result.
4. Make at least five coworkers feel special. This one is easy. Small gifts or little tokens of appreciation are all it takes to make someone feel great for a day. Put a smile on someone’s face.
5. Vow to ask questions. Many of you are new nurses and you’re entering new, scary worlds. One of the best ways to learn is to ask questions: Is this the best way to do this? Can you help me with this? The lessons you learn could last a lifetime.
6. Find the perfect job. Maybe you already have it or maybe you don’t. If not, find a place where you feel comfortable, where you are appreciated, and where you do great work. A nice combination of autonomy, competent coworkers, flexibility, and, of course, a little money, is tough to beat.
7. Be on time every time. Whether it’s a job interview, the start of your shift, or a staff meeting, being on time shows professionalism and is a sign of respect for those around you. Maybe you could even be early sometimes?
8. Continue your education. Perhaps you’re already working and school is in your rearview mirror. Well, put it back on the horizon. More knowledge can only help you in your future.
9. Join a committee or a club. Get involved. There’s nothing wrong with showing up every day and doing your job, but actively improving the atmosphere around you will produce enduring rewards.
10. Be a great nurse every day. Sit back, take a breath, and remember exactly why you got into this profession in the first place. Then, put everything together, get out there, and be the best you can be.