Every profession requires a special type of person to perform the job. For example, not everyone is cut out to be a firefighter. That job requires you to function well under severe stress and be able to change strategies at a moment's notice. The same thing applies to people in the medical field. Not everyone can tolerate dealing with and helping people who are very ill or in a great deal of pain. Many ordinary people would be unable to cope with the emotional ramifications that go along with spending a lot of time around those in trying physical and emotional situations.

Of all of the worthwhile occupations in the medical field, nursing is probably the most demanding and rewarding job there is. If you are thinking about becoming a nurse, in the process of going to school to earn your nursing degree, or looking to further your existing nursing career, determining the right path for your future is something you’ve probably thought about. There are three things to keep in mind as you weigh the pros and cons of the various opportunities in the nursing field.

1. Consider your lifestyle wishes. One of the first things you should think about before making a decision about your nursing career are your lifestyle choices. For example, if you are close to your local family and friends, the idea of working in another area of the country may be more upsetting than exciting to you. On the other hand, if you enjoy experiencing new places and people, becoming a traveling nurse could be the right decision for you. Other factors to consider in terms of which location you want to work in include whether or not you have or want to have children, your spouse (if applicable), and your future career goals.

2. Decide on the type of environment you want to work in. As you well know, there are all kinds of possible positions and functions for a nurse. You can work in a hospital, medical clinic, long term health care center, nursing home or any variety of specialty doctors' offices. Your personal interests and any specialized training you have play a huge role in determining the best fit for you.

3. Keep your future in mind. Every job has the potential to turn into something more. It all depends on if you are interested in more money, more prestige, or just looking for the most rewarding career you can possibly imagine. Once you have decided on the best place for you to advance your career, remember the reasons you became a nurse in the first place and the quality of care that is necessary to continue to help patients and meet your nursing career goals.

The best way to determine how to proceed with your nursing career is up to you. It will require you to look at not just your career goals, but also the things you want from life overall. In order to be the best nurse you can be, you have to make the choice that will allow you to be in control of your quality of care and performing your job functions, along with allowing you to live the kind of personal life that inspires you to always be the best patient care giver possible. These two aspects of your life have a huge bearing on how you feel in your position and how effective you are as a nurse.

Take the time to carefully consider all aspects of your career and its impact on your life. After considering all of the factors, it's up to you to make your nursing career potential a reality