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# Donna Cardillo, RN

Keynote Speaker, Humorist, Master Motivator

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://donnacardillo.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://donnacardillo.com/blog/)
- [5 Tips to Enhance Your Happiness and Improve Your Health](https://donnacardillo.com/5-tips-to-enhance-your-happiness-and-improve-your-health/) - Some say happiness is learned, while others believe happiness is innate. I venture to think happiness is a fundamental part of who we are.
- [7 Tips for Eating Healthy On a Budget](https://donnacardillo.com/7-tips-for-eating-healthy-on-a-budget/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I recently heard someone say that they can’t afford to eat healthy, a statement I have heard from others as well. When I asked this person to explain why she felt that way she gave me as an example the fact that a burger in a certain
- [Before You Grab That Sleeping Pill…](https://donnacardillo.com/before-you-grab-that-sleeping-pill/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Barely a week goes by that I don’t hear of someone else I know taking a sleep aid, either over the counter or by prescription. And while getting a good night’s sleep is vital to our health, happiness, and clear thinking, relying on medication without addressing some
- [Sun 101: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe This Summer](https://donnacardillo.com/sun-101-what-you-need-to-know-to-stay-safe-this-summer/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently came out with new guidelines for the labeling and use of sunscreen products. This is based on the latest research and was done to minimize confusion and increase awareness and accuracy about ultraviolet ray protection from the sun. It is
- [Meditation Not Your Thing? Debunking the Myths](https://donnacardillo.com/meditation-not-your-thing-debunking-the-myths/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN A regular meditation practice has been shown to calm the body and mind, increase mental clarity and focus, increase vitality, assist in becoming more attuned to your own inner wisdom, and allow you to tap into universal energy – all very desirable outcomes! And as if
- [When Dining Out, Is Ignorance Bliss … or Bad For Your Health?](https://donnacardillo.com/when-dining-out-is-ignorance-bliss-or-bad-for-your-health/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I had lunch this week in a well-known restaurant chain where I hadn’t dined in some time. I noticed that they now list the calorie content of every item on their menu. I was shocked to learn that what would have likely been my first selection had
- [Summer Injury Cheat Sheet](https://donnacardillo.com/summer-injury-cheat-sheet/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and get more active. But the seasonal fun sometimes comes with a price. Don’t let common injuries keep you from making the most of sunshine. Here are quick fixes for those summertime mishaps – print this post out
- [Gluten-Free for Health: Fad or Fact?](https://donnacardillo.com/gluten-free-for-health-fad-or-fact/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN One of my local grocery stores, part of a large chain, recently redid part of their frozen food and grocery sections to accommodate all gluten-free products. So, what’s all the fuss about? Is it just another dietary craze or are there potential health benefits to be gained?
- [Is Your Diet Soda the Reason You're Not Feeling Well?](https://donnacardillo.com/is-your-diet-soda-the-reason-youre-not-feeling-well/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Several years ago, a friend of mine was having a series of troubling symptoms including frequent headaches, dizziness and nausea. She finally visited her physician who ran a series of medical tests. Everything came back negative, so the doctor further questioned my friend about her lifestyle including
- [Helping Kids Cope With a Hospital Stay](https://donnacardillo.com/helping-kids-cope-with-a-hospital-stay/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN There isn’t much that’s scarier than having to admit your child to the hospital. For the child, the process can be traumatic and overwhelming. But there are some steps you can take to make the process a little less stressful for the child, and the whole family
- [7 Ways to Advocate for a Hospitalized Loved One](https://donnacardillo.com/7-ways-to-advocate-for-a-hospitalized-loved-one/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN When someone you care about is in the hospital, it can be stressful, confusing, even overwhelming for you as well as the patient. But by becoming proactive in the process and learning to advocate for that person, you – and they – can feel more calm, confident
- [How to Support Someone With a Serious Illness](https://donnacardillo.com/how-to-support-someone-with-a-serious-illness/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN When someone receives a diagnosis of cancer or other serious illness, some friends and extended family members sometimes distance themselves from that person and his/her immediate family. The reasons may vary but some folks simply don’t know what to do or say, so they avoid contact altogether.
- [Avoiding Caregiver Burnout](https://donnacardillo.com/avoiding-caregiver-burnout/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN According the National Alliance on Caregiving, almost 44 million Americans care for sick, disabled and elderly family members and friends, saving the healthcare system $375 billion dollars annually. But the caregiver or care partner is often overlooked in the process as the focus is on the person
- [Easy Ways to Cultivate Good Health in the Garden](https://donnacardillo.com/easy-ways-to-cultivate-good-health-in-the-garden/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN There are many more ways to stay healthy and fit than simply just going to the gym. In fact, some options are right in our own backyard. While gardening may not be considered exercise by some, it can actually build or maintain strength, stamina, and flexibility. Some studies have
- [Why You Should Add a Dose of Gratitude to Your Day](https://donnacardillo.com/why-you-should-add-a-dose-of-gratitude-to-your-day/) - Practicing gratitude has been clinically proven to have a profound and positive impact on a person’s health and quality of life — and it’s free!
- [Aromatherapy: The Hidden Gem of Health Care?](https://donnacardillo.com/aromatherapy-the-hidden-gem-of-health-care/) - Essential oils seem to be all the rage these days due to the belief that they can enhance physical and psychological well-being.
- [Nature Calls: 5 Health Benefits That Will Do Your Body Good](https://donnacardillo.com/nature-calls-5-health-benefits-that-will-do-your-body-good/) - The mere thought of watching a majestic sunset, tranquil river, or tree-lined forest may bring about a sense of joy. But do you actually make time to spend in nature?
- [Celebrating Nurses Week 2017: 5 Nurses You Should Know About](https://donnacardillo.com/celebrating-nurses-week-2017-5-nurses-you-should-know-about/) - Physicians are often thrust into the spotlight for the work they do, and often the notoriety is well deserved.
- [Celebrate Nursing – All Year Long!](https://donnacardillo.com/celebrate-nursing-all-year-long/) - National Nurses Week is the “official” time to shine a spotlight on nurses. But the truth is, we should be celebrating nurses and nursing every day throughout the year. So how can you get the ball rolling and start the party? Here are five ways:
- [Celebrate National Nurses Week…and Nurses!](https://donnacardillo.com/celebrate-national-nurses-weekand-nurses/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN As we celebrate National Nurses Week (May 6-12), it’s a good time to talk about the expanding role that nurses play and will play in the future as health care evolves to meet the changing demographics and health-care needs of the population. While many people think of
- [5 Truths About Nursing Everyone Needs to Know](https://donnacardillo.com/5-truths-about-nursing-everyone-needs-to-know/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN National Nurses Week is celebrated each year starting on May 6 and ending on May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday. This year’s theme is Ethical Practice, Quality Care. The week is set aside to honor and recognize all nurses around the world for their contributions to promoting the
- [National Nurses Week 2018: 6 Nurses You Should Know About](https://donnacardillo.com/national-nurses-week-2018-6-nurses-you-should-know-about/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN As we celebrate National Nurses Week – May 6th through May 12th (Florence Nightingale’s birthday) – it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the nation’s almost four million registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. These men and women step up to the plate every day and do
- [What Nurses Do](https://donnacardillo.com/what-nurses-do/) - This week, as we celebrate Nurses Week 2016 around the world, it’s a good time to reflect on the vital, yet often hidden, role that nurses play in our world.
- [9 Ways Nurses Work for You](https://donnacardillo.com/9-ways-nurses-work-for-you/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN A few years back I was a guest on The Dr. Oz Show for a segment titled “Nurses’ Secrets That Can Save Your Life.” Click here to watch the video. During my brief time on camera, I gave a quick overview of the role nurses play in
- [Acknowledge, Appreciate, and Be Grateful](https://donnacardillo.com/acknowledge-appreciate-and-be-grateful/) - Notice and appreciate how others do their jobs. Acknowledge and appreciate them for it every day.
- [Why Nurses Need an Elevator Speech](https://donnacardillo.com/why-nurses-need-an-elevator-speech/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN How many times have you been out in public when someone asks you what you do and you respond, “I’m a nurse.” Bland. Generic. Nondescript. That type of response promotes the false notion that all nurses are alike, do the same thing, and are basically interchangeable. But
- [You Are Not Alone: A Nod to Caregivers](https://donnacardillo.com/notalone/) - Caregiving is not just physically caring for someone with bathing, dressing, or eating. It's also medication management, spending time on the phone with insurance companies and medical offices, and providing emotional support for the person for whom you take care. Family members, neighbors, and friends very often don't want to ask the person who's ill or disabled how they're doing and get a real answer. Instead, they turn to the caregiver for all of those responses. March is National Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month. Twenty-six years ago, my husband was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Twenty-six years ago, I became a family caregiver; and, more specifically (in my case), a spousal caregiver. I didn’t even realize that I was a family caregiver at that time because I always envisioned family caregivers
- [Re-Open Your Life](https://donnacardillo.com/re-open-your-life/) - Here we find ourselves in March of 2021. The World Health Organization has just marked one year since the entire pandemic shut down and stay-at-home orders were issued last year. That's quite an incredible landmark! What's happened in that last year with all the challenges that we've had, is many of us who are not
- [Embrace Your Transitions: Part 1](https://donnacardillo.com/embrace-your-transitions-part-1/) - Let’s talk about the importance and the value of transitions in your life. A transition is that time when you're going from one thing to another—from one place to another. It's that in-between time, that gray area. Many of us always feel like we have to go from one relationship to another immediately, or we
- [Embrace Your Transitions: Part 2](https://donnacardillo.com/embrace-your-transitions-part-2/) - I often talk about the value and the need for transitions in our life—those in-between times when we go from one thing to another—whether it's a job, relationship, or other major life event. I want to share with you one of my own experiences of a big transition that was so pivotal in my life.
- [Letting In The Light](https://donnacardillo.com/letting-in-the-light/) - Some years back, my husband became very ill with an initially unknown ailment. He was almost completely incapacitated, in pain, and we weren't even sure if he would live. Everything seemed out of control and spiraling downward. Even though I visited him daily in the hospital, and later in rehab during his six-month absence from home during treatment and
- [Donna Cardillo and Dr. Randolph Rasch Announced as Keynote and Endnote Speakers for NSNA 73rd Annual Convention](https://donnacardillo.com/donna-cardillo-and-dr-randolph-rasch-announced-as-keynote-and-endnote-speakers-for-nsna-73rd-annual-convention/) - I’m honored to be the Keynote Speaker at the 73rd Annual NSNA Convention! 🎤✨ Check out the official press release to learn more about this incredible event and my fellow speaker, Dr. Randolph Rasch: Read here Can’t wait to connect and inspire future nurse leaders! 💙 #NSNA2025 #NurseLeaders #KeynoteSpeaker
- [I Am a Baby Nurse . . . Not!](https://donnacardillo.com/i-am-a-baby-nurse-not/) - I often see/hear new nurses referring to themselves as “newbie nurses” or “baby nurses,” inferring that they are just starting out in the profession. Imagine if a new attorney said, “I’m a baby lawyer,” or a new physician said, “I’m a newbie doctor.” It sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it? That’s because this language is demeaning, unprofessional,
- [On Crying](https://donnacardillo.com/on-crying/) - I'm feeling like I want to cry, need a good cry—release, tears of joy, tears of anguish—the yin and the yang of life. It’s OK to cry for both sides, embrace the dark and the light; one supports the other. You are beloved and whole because of it. You feel, you fall, you pick yourself
- [The Daughter-in-Law](https://donnacardillo.com/the-daughter-in-law/) - By Donna Cardillo The inevitable had happened. My mother-in-law, three months shy of her 100th birthday, passed away. I knew it would be my responsibility to empty her apartment and pack up or dispose of her belongings. Why me, the daughter-in-law? Because I was her primary caregiver. Both of her sons were ill or disabled
- [Jan's Story](https://donnacardillo.com/jans-story/) - Jan came from a highly dysfunctional family. One day at age 14, after a physical altercation with her drug-addicted mother and years of abuse and neglect, she decided to take her own life by swallowing downers she had accumulated from her mother's stash and a bottle of gin. She was found unconscious in the girls'
- [Acknowledging Family Caregivers](https://donnacardillo.com/acknowledging-family-caregivers/) - Please acknowledge the 'family' caregivers. Look them in the eye, greet them, address them by name when possible, solicit their input, and ask them how they are coping at an appropriate time.
- [A Nurse's Story](https://donnacardillo.com/a-nurses-story/) - The summer before my senior year of RN nursing school, I worked as an LPN (we were allowed to take LPN boards then after 2 years of RN education) in a county-run long-term chronic psychiatric facility. Most of the patients had been there for years and years long ago abandoned by their families. It was
- [The Crucial Role of Nurses: A Brief Education](https://donnacardillo.com/crucial-role-of-nurses-a-brief-education/) - I continue to be amazed at the level of misunderstanding many have about the nursing profession and will continue to educate and enlighten people about who we are.
- [Donna Cardillo Announces Newly Revised & Updated Version of Her Book, YOUR FIRST YEAR AS A NURSE](https://donnacardillo.com/donna-cardillo-announces-newly-revised-updated-version-of-her-book-your-first-year-as-a-nurse/) - This classic primer takes nurses inside the hospital, the exam room, and the locker room to help you survive and thrive on the job—now updated for the post-pandemic world.
- [Witnessing Homelessness: A Story of Compassion and Gratitude.](https://donnacardillo.com/witnessing-homelessness/) - At a speaking event our author details witnessing homelessness, offers help through a small gesture, and reminds readers about compassion and gratefulness.
- [Donna Cardillo, RN, MA, CSP FAAN announced as Endnote Speaker for the 2022 Annual AHNA Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico](https://donnacardillo.com/donna-cardillo-rn-ma-csp-faan-announced-as-endnote-speaker-for-the-2022-annual-ahna-conference-in-albuquerque-new-mexico/) - Sea Girt, NJ (January 2022) – The American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) announces that Donna Cardillo, RN, MA, CSP, FAAN will be the Endnote speaker at their 2022 Annual Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Endnote presentation The Power of Transformation! Holistic Nurses Leading the Way will be on Saturday, June 11, 2022. The conference will take place
- [Thank You For Saying Thank You](https://donnacardillo.com/thank-you-for-saying-thank-you/) - Recently while traveling, I enjoyed breakfast at a chain restaurant. Several tables were occupied, and I noticed only one server doing all the front-end work: taking orders and processing payments. Other customers slowly trickled in, and she seemed to keep up with it all with grace, style, and even humor. When she brought my food,
- [Try Stepping Forward Boldly](https://donnacardillo.com/try-stepping-forward-boldly/) - The older we get, the more risk-averse we become. Our fears magnify and we have a tendency to pull back from life. But pulling back and avoiding things we’re afraid of only magnifies our fears and makes our world smaller. Instead, try stepping forward boldly. Take a risk, even a small one. Try something new
- [A Little Generosity Goes a Long Way](https://donnacardillo.com/a-little-generosity-goes-a-long-way/) - I arrived home late yesterday afternoon from a business trip. So I decided to order takeout dinner for the family and have it delivered. The bill came to $48.45. I handed the delivery person $60 and told him to keep the change. He stood there stunned for a moment and then in the most sincere
- [Those Small Moments of Connection and Support](https://donnacardillo.com/those-small-moments-of-connection-and-support-2/) - A few years back during a loss of power after a storm, I went to a convenience store that had electricity to get coffee and ice... essentials during a power failure! A customer (a man in his 40s) saw me trying to juggle several bags of ice and picked one up to help me out
- [No More "Problems"](https://donnacardillo.com/no-more-problems/) - Every minute spent worrying is a minute lost. Start living in the present - the NOW. “You cannot be both unhappy and fully present in the Now” –Eckhart Tolle.
- [A Season of Watching, Waiting, and Preparing for the Light](https://donnacardillo.com/a-season-of-watching-waiting-and-preparing-for-the-light-2/) - Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or winter solstice, it is a season of watching, waiting and preparing for the light. The symbolism is perfect for our lives as we often find ourselves in personal and spiritual darkness unable to find our way. As the old adage goes: It is better to light a candle
- [RN Isn't Qualified to Provide Expert Health Education? Wait! WHAT?](https://donnacardillo.com/rn-isnt-qualified-to-provide-expert-health-education-wait-what/) - Sandra Lee MD recently posted a message on twitter (see image) in response to a health blog written by an RN on WebMD about sunburn...
- [Why Gratitude is the Key to Being Rich](https://donnacardillo.com/why-gratitude-is-the-key-to-being-rich/) - "Absence makes the heart grow fonder." "You don't know what you've got till it's gone." "Sometimes, we have to witness what others have lost in order to truly appreciate all that we have." Despite all that we currently have to do without, most of us are surrounded by abundance. You only have to look for
- [Why It’s Absolutely Okay To Embrace the Ups and Downs of Your Life](https://donnacardillo.com/why-its-absolutely-okay-to-embrace-the-ups-and-downs-of-your-life/) - Life is a series of ebbs and flows. There will always be periods of challenge and hardship as well as times of peace and plenty. Scarcity alternates with abundance.
- [The Worst Advice I Ever Received](https://donnacardillo.com/the-worst-advice-i-ever-received/) - Many years ago I attended a women's business retreat in the hopes of propelling my business forward. One of my challenges at the time was being stuck on...
- [Nurses are Always on Duty](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-are-always-on-duty-2/) - I had to do a nursing intervention in the parking lot of my gym last year. I noticed an adult daughter with her elderly dad who was unstable on his feet and down on one knee. She was struggling to get him up and panicking. I went to their assistance and helped get him into
- [The Lessons of Scarcity](https://donnacardillo.com/the-lessons-of-scarcity/) - Because of a shortage of paper table napkins in the stores, my husband and I started cutting ours in half at the fold to conserve. That leaves us with a 2-ply napkin instead of a 4-ply one which works quite well. We realized that we don't really need a whole napkin at every meal. I
- [Are You Addicted to Self-Help?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-addicted-to-self-help-2/) - Be careful not to get "addicted to" self-help books, workshops, and so on. It's great to use them; I do myself. But many people get trapped into believing that they must first "overcome" their fears, "conquer" self-doubt, and "breakthrough" obstacles before moving forward in their lives. There is no substitute for planning, doing research, setting
- [It's Never Too Late to Follow Your Dreams](https://donnacardillo.com/its-never-too-late-to-follow-your-dreams/) - I recently presented to a group of women and spoke about how important it is not to lose oneself in caregiving (whether a parent or taking care of an ill, elderly or disabled loved one) and that it is vital to maintain something for/of themselves.
- [The Golden Rule of Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/the-golden-rule-of-nursing-2/) - Treat others as you wish to be treated. Be courteous to everyone whether or not they reciprocate.
- [Lights, Camera, Action!](https://donnacardillo.com/lights-camera-action-2/) - By Donna Cardillo, RN, MA, CSP, FAAN I always get excited when I see or hear a nurse on television or radio. It’s probably because we’re hardly ever there! But it’s also because TV and radio appearances offer nurses the opportunity to show the world how bright, articulate, and knowledgeable we are. And while it’s
- [Harness the Power of the Media](https://donnacardillo.com/harness-the-power-of-the-media-2/) - Numerous studies have shown that Americans get much of their information about health care from the media. Likewise, what they see and hear in the media, whether a TV drama or a print news story, influences how they perceive nurses and the work we do. And yet, nurses have historically shied away from the media.
- [Observe and Elevate Those Around You](https://donnacardillo.com/observe-and-elevate-those-around-you-2/) - During recent air travel, I had a very short window of time to catch my connection. Plus, my connecting gate was a reasonable distance away in a large airport. So I asked one of those airport transport vehicles for a lift.
- [Unlock Your Music](https://donnacardillo.com/unlock-your-music/) - Each of us is capable of doing much more than we ever realized. I’m not talking about getting more things done in a day. I’m talking about developing aspects of ourselves that we never knew existed.
- [High-Quality CPR Saves Lives](https://donnacardillo.com/high-quality-cpr-saves-lives/) - “It’s a beautiful day to save lives.” That popular phrase, attributed to the TV show Grey’s Anatomy, brings to mind what we work to do in healthcare every day. In that vein, I have recently learned of a new program designed to save more lives that I wanted to share with you.
- [Is it OK to ask about salary information before a job interview?](https://donnacardillo.com/is-it-ok-to-ask-about-salary-information-before-a-job-interview/) - Dear Donna, I received an email asking me to come in for a job interview. I’d like to know what the salary is before I go in. Is it OK to ask? If so, should I call or email?
- [How can LPNs make themselves more attractive candidates to potential employers?](https://donnacardillo.com/how-can-lpns-make-themselves-more-attractive-candidates-to-potential-employers/) - I am a LPN student with a bleak view of the job market. I’m graduating soon. What can an LPN expect when looking for jobs? What can we do to make ourselves more attractive to potential employers?
- [Connect With Your Heart](https://donnacardillo.com/connect-with-your-heart/) - Last evening I made a quick run to Walmart for a few essentials. I went down one aisle and noticed an employee, a woman in her fifties or sixties, straightening up a shelf.
- [What is the Proper Amount of Notice to Give When Resigning?](https://donnacardillo.com/what-is-the-proper-amount-of-notice-to-give-when-resigning/) - Dear Donna, How much notice do I need to give if I am leaving my job?
- [How much volunteer work should a nurse list on a resume?](https://donnacardillo.com/how-much-volunteer-work-should-a-nurse-list-on-a-resume/) - Dear Donna, Should I list volunteer work on my resume, and if so, how and where? I have been volunteering since I was in high school. How far back should I go?
- ["How can a nurse keep her skills sharp and license active as a stay-at-home mom?"](https://donnacardillo.com/how-can-a-nurse-keep-her-skills-sharp-and-license-active-as-a-stay-at-home-mom/) - I want to be a stay-at-home mom. My daughter is 1, and we are planning to have two more babies. I don’t want to abandon the workforce forever, but I don’t know how to go about doing that. What should I be doing to keep my skills and license?
- [Age Is a State of Mind: Four Ways to Stay Young at Heart](https://donnacardillo.com/age-is-a-state-of-mind-four-ways-to-stay-young-at-heart/) - Recently, while in a stationery store, I saw a card that read, “What age would you be if you didn’t know what age you were?” What a great question to contemplate.
- [6 Nurses You Should Know About](https://donnacardillo.com/6-nurses-you-should-know-about/) - It’s always a perfect time to shine a spotlight on the nation’s almost four million registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. These men and women step up to the plate every day and do the hard work that needs to be done, and they do it with compassion, intelligence, great skill, and finesse. Here are six individuals that are changing the face of health and healthcare through nursing.
- [The Inspiration Nurse, Donna Cardillo, Accepted Into the American Academy of Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/the-inspiration-nurse-donna-cardillo-accepted-into-the-american-academy-of-nursing/) - Donna Cardillo, RN, CSP, best known as the Inspiration Nurse, is proud to announce acceptance as a fellow into the American Academy of Nursing.
- [What I Learned From Being Cheated On By My Ex-Husband](https://donnacardillo.com/what-i-learned-from-being-cheated-on-by-my-ex-husband/) - My first husband and I were going through some challenging times in our marriage after two and half years together and trying to work things out (or so I thought).
- [What Goes Around Comes Around](https://donnacardillo.com/what-goes-around-comes-around-2/) - When you choose to be positive, giving, loving, and kind to others, it will come back to you in spades. If you look for the good in others, you will find it.
- [Stick With It](https://donnacardillo.com/stick-with-it/) - There are a great joy and personal satisfaction in mastering a skill that once seemed almost impossible to master. And while there is a temptation to give up when things feel very challenging...
- [Creating a Legacy in Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/creating-a-legacy-in-nursing/) - Message for New Nurses: Nursing is the most amazing profession. It will change you for the better as much as it will positively impact the lives of those you care for. It is challenging and rewarding...
- [A Great Nurse From Day One](https://donnacardillo.com/a-great-nurse-from-day-one/) - All nurses start out thinking that they'll never learn everything they need to know to be a great nurse. The exhilaration comes when you finally realize that you can be a great nurse at every stage of the learning curve.
- [Staying Mindful in Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/staying-mindful-in-nursing/) - Be mindful of everything you do. When you are with a patient (anyone), focus only on that patient for that time and be more aware of every aspect of him or her.
- [Ask...and stop talking](https://donnacardillo.com/ask-and-stop-talking/) - I frequently receive phone calls from individuals seeking guidance and information. And while I am always happy to speak to people for a few moments and share some wisdom or encouragement, some callers don't even allow me to do what they called for in the first place.
- [The Yin and Yang of Life](https://donnacardillo.com/the-yin-and-yang-of-life/) - In Chinese philosophy, yin and yang describe how seemingly opposite forces, one dark and one light, are interdependent and necessary for harmony in the natural world and in life. I immediately had a sense of holding something very heavy in both hands.
- [Staying Positive in Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/staying-positive-in-nursing/) - Use positive self-talk every day to combat the negative chatter in your head. Remind yourself that you’ve already come a long way, have accomplished a great deal, and are a strong and resilient individual capable of great things.
- [To New Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/to-new-nurses/) - When I was a student and new nurse, I used to look at experienced nurses with such awe and reverence. They were so smart, so cool and in control. I couldn’t imagine that I would ever be like them. But here I am decades later mentoring and giving advice to students, new and experienced nurses. And some day...
- [In Nursing, Words Have Power](https://donnacardillo.com/in-nursing-words-have-power/) - I recently saw a new nurse post on SM that she is a "baby nurse." I often here that phrase, and similar phrases, used by new and experienced nurses alike. Imagine if someone referred to a new MD as a "baby doctor" (not a neonatologist) or new lawyer as a "baby attorney" or even a "baby physical therapist."
- [Nurses are Superheroes](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-are-superheroes/) - Nurses are emissaries of health, ambassadors of wellness, and messengers of hope. We are protectors of the species and defenders of human rights.
- [Nurses Light Up The World](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-light-up-the-world/) - My cap is off to every person - past, present and future - who had the courage, compassion, and conviction to choose nursing as a profession and light up the world in the process.
- [Making Your First Impression Count](https://donnacardillo.com/making-your-first-impression-count/) - Did you know that most employers decide within the first two minutes of an interview whether they might hire you?
- [Every Nurse is a Teacher](https://donnacardillo.com/every-nurse-is-a-teacher/) - As you move forward in your nursing career and gain knowledge and experience, always look for ways to help and support those who follow. Teaching is a good way to keep learning.
- [Negativity in Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/negativity-in-nursing/) - If you accept or ignore incivility or negativity in the workplace, you are complicit in the process. If you’re not part of the solution you’re part of the problem.
- [New Nurse: Create Your Own Path](https://donnacardillo.com/new-nurse-create-your-own-path/) - Never let anyone tell you what your nursing career should or shouldn’t be. Follow your heart. Carve out your own path in nursing. There is no one right way for all nurses to start their careers or to continue their careers. We all have differing backgrounds, interests, personalities, temperaments, goals, and dreams. Everyone told me I couldn’t work in psych right out of school because I would forget my skills. I don’t think I had any
- [Are You Proud of Being a Nurse?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-proud-of-being-a-nurse/) - How you feel about your profession has everything to do with the value you place on the work you do. If you understand the impact and importance of what all nurses do, you will never question your career choice. Make it your business to understand what nursing is all about. © Donna Cardillo (DonnaCardillo.com). All
- [On Being a Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/on-being-a-nurse/) - Nurses often have difficulty articulating the essence of what they do. It is difficult to put into words the often subtle yet profound way that nurses impact lives. It is something that must be experienced, mastered, and emblazoned upon the soul to be truly and deeply understood. © Donna Cardillo (DonnaCardillo.com). All rights reserved.
- [The Inspiration Nurse, Donna Cardillo, Receives Prestigious Vanguard Award From The NNBA](https://donnacardillo.com/the-inspiration-nurse-donna-cardillo-receives-prestigious-vanguard-award-from-the-nnba/) - Given in recognition for contributions to nurses and nurse entrepreneurs, the Vanguard Award is among many that Cardillo has received while continuing to help and inspire those in the nursing profession. Sea Girt, NJ – 19 December, 2017 – Donna Cardillo, RN, CSP, an award-winning business woman, respected keynote speaker, and best-selling author, has been
- [Medicine Cabinet Basics: Your Shopping List](https://donnacardillo.com/medicine-cabinet-basics/) - It pays to be well prepared at home when dealing with minor health issues. Here’s what a well-stocked medicine cabinet should contain to handle most maladies.
- [Prescription Safety: How To Store and Dispose of Your Medications](https://donnacardillo.com/prescription-safety/) - How and where you store your medication has an impact of its ability to help you get better. Follow these timeless tips to stay healthy and safe.
- [Top Warning Signs You Could Be Dehydrated (and Why It Matters)](https://donnacardillo.com/dehydration/) - Many of us walk around in a state of mild to moderate dehydration. Good hydration keeps you physically & mentally at your best, today & for years to come.
- [5 Myths About Ebola](https://donnacardillo.com/5-myths-about-ebola/) - Here are five of the most common myths about Ebola debunked to set the record straight.
- [Your First Line of Defense to Prevent the Spread of Viruses](https://donnacardillo.com/prevent-virus-spread/) - There are several important elements involved with proper technique to rid your hands of germs, viruses and other harmful organisms.
- [Why You Should Organize Your Health Records](https://donnacardillo.com/organize-health-records/) - Keeping your or your loved ones’ medical records organized and readily available can be overwhelming. But it is an important task for the following reasons:
- [Loving What You Do](https://donnacardillo.com/loving-what-you-do/) - I love being a nurse. I have loved it every single day of the 30+ years I have been in it. Not because the work was always easy or because I always felt appreciated or recognized for my efforts. But rather because I have always known, in a very deep and fundamental way, that
- [Heal the Past, Create the Future](https://donnacardillo.com/heal-the-past-create-the-future/) - Today is a day to honor the souls of those who are departed. But regardless of one’s beliefs, we can all take time to reflect on those who came before us.
- [What Holds You Up?](https://donnacardillo.com/what-holds-you-up/) - At twilight last evening, while out walking, I caught sight of this magnificent spider suspended between two branches.
- [I'm So Human!](https://donnacardillo.com/im-so-human/) - I often hear folks, when they've done something they weren't happy with, even by accident, proclaim, "I'm so stupid!"
- [The Inspiration Nurse, Donna Cardillo, Motivates Nurses & Nurse Entrepreneurs at Upcoming Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ Conference](https://donnacardillo.com/the-inspiration-nurse-donna-cardillo-motivates-nurses-nurse-entrepreneurs-at-upcoming-empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-conference/) - This transformative conference and retreat for nurses runs December 2-4, 2016 at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Stockbridge, MA Stockbridge, MA (November 2016). Whether one’s passion for nursing is fired up or has fizzled out, Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ is the opportunity for nurses and nurse entrepreneurs to get renewed, empowered, energized,
- [Hurricane Harvey: How Can Nurses Help?](https://donnacardillo.com/hurricane-harvey-how-can-nurses-help/) - I have received many emails and social media messages from nurses around the world asking how they can help in Texas in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.
- [Retirement. Now What?](https://donnacardillo.com/retirement-now-what/) - Here are my suggestions of things you may be able to do part-time, particularly if you are looking for some flexibility in your life.
- [Are You Asking the Right Questions?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-asking-the-right-questions/) - While recently speaking at a nursing conference, the speaker before me was trying to make the point that nurses don’t support each other.
- [Nurse Entrepreneurs Gather in Florida!](https://donnacardillo.com/nurse-entrepreneurs-gather-in-florida/) - I'm presenting a pre-conference workshop on September 8: Business Basics Bootcamp.
- [Have we lost our ability (and our sensitivity) to communicate in healthcare?](https://donnacardillo.com/have-we-lost-our-ability-and-our-sensitivity-to-communicate-in-healthcare/) - While recently accompanying a man who had just been admitted to the hospital, the nurse looked at his wife and asked, “Are you his P-O-A?” We all (including me) looked dumbfounded so she repeated the question a little louder. I finally spoke up and said, “You’ll have to tell us what “P-O-A” stands for. She
- [Happy Nurses Week 2016!](https://donnacardillo.com/happy-nurses-week-2016/) - This week, as we celebrate Nurses Week 2016 around the world, it’s a good time to reflect on the vital, yet often hidden, role that nurses play in our world...
- [Entrepreneurship -The Road Less Traveled](https://donnacardillo.com/entrepreneurship-the-road-less-traveled/) - When I started my education business 22 years ago, I had a dream and vision – to launch a public seminar for nurses and take it on the road.
- [Nursing Connections](https://donnacardillo.com/nursing-connections/) - I recently spoke at a small local event. After everyone had left, I remained, gathering my materials...
- [Ring, Ring…Your Life is Calling!](https://donnacardillo.com/ring-ringits-for-you/) - What one small step will you take today to move toward your goals? Your life is waiting.
- [Smile: It’s Good for You](https://donnacardillo.com/smile-its-good-for-you/) - Smiling is something most of us do without giving it much thought. But research has shown that when we smile, even if we force it, it sets off a chemical and emotional chain reaction that can improve our health, our mood, our outlook … and even our job prospects! When you smile and the related
- [Open Up to Life](https://donnacardillo.com/open-up-to-life/) - In order to grow, you have to be willing to be vulnerable. You don’t have to like it. You just have to allow it to happen. Vulnerability opens you up to life.
- [Do the Best You Can](https://donnacardillo.com/do-the-best-you-can/) - Life is a series of ups and downs. There will always be days, weeks, and years when things are particularly difficult. During those times...
- [Nursing: More Than a Gentle Touch](https://donnacardillo.com/nursing-more-than-a-gentle-touch/) - Much is often made of the caring nature of nurses with frequent references to a kind word, a gentle touch, or a reassuring smile.
- [Poetry Power](https://donnacardillo.com/poetry-power/) - Poetry helps us to see things in a unique way, understand difficult emotions, gain clarity on life issues, and just celebrate life.
- [What are you looking for?](https://donnacardillo.com/what-are-you-looking-for/) - We see the world not as it is but as we are. In other words, we tend to find what we are looking for, whether negative or positive.
- [New Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/new-nurse/) - Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither was anyone’s nursing career.
- [I Am, Therefore I Teach](https://donnacardillo.com/i-am-therefore-i-teach/) - It is often said that everyone who comes into our lives is sent to teach us something, even the most difficult people.
- [Donna Cardillo Appointed to Business Advisory Board for National Nurses in Business Association](https://donnacardillo.com/donna-cardillo-appointed-to-business-advisory-board-for-national-nurses-in-business-association/) - Sea Girt, NJ (June, 2015) The National Nurses in Business Association (NNBA), the recognized leading professional association dedicated to advancing and promoting nurses in business, recently announced its newly appointed Business Advisory Board. Donna Cardillo, RN, CSP, best known as The Inspiration Nurse, is proud to be among them. This announcement comes at the same
- [Conscious Talk Radio Interview](https://donnacardillo.com/conscious-talk/) - In this episode of Your Conscious Talk, Donna Cardillo is interviewed by Brenda Michaels and Rob Spears. Donna Cardillo, RN, CSP (Certified Speaking Professional) is The Inspiration Nurse. She travels the world helping women and healthcare professionals to be happy in their lives and careers and to reach their full potential. She does that as
- [5 Healthy Ways to Start Your Day in 5 Minutes or Less](https://donnacardillo.com/start-your-day-healthy/) - You don’t need a rigid schedule or even a lot of time to get each day off to an energetic & healthy start. Try these quick and easy tips to improve your life.
- [You Got to Have Friends to Be Healthy](https://donnacardillo.com/you-got-to-have-friends-to-be-healthy-2/) - There’s scientific evidence that having friends can also make your life, and your good health, last long too.
- [Motivation Café -  Ranks Best Nurse Inspiration Blog](https://donnacardillo.com/motivation-cafe-ranks-best-nurse-inspiration-blog/) - Wilkes University has a Top 10 Nursing Blog guide on some of the best nursing blogs out there! My Motivation Café blog was recognized on that list.
- [Climb, Reach, Fly, Soar](https://donnacardillo.com/climb-reach-fly-soar/) - “She went out on a limb, had it break off behind her, and discovered she could fly.” Kobi Yamada
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #11](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-11/) - Welcome new staff. Whether it’s a new graduate or an experienced staffer, extend your hand to shake, introduce yourself, & offer to show them the ropes.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #10](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-10/) - Take time to get to know your coworkers. Contrary to what you might have heard, familiarity breeds respect.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #9](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-9/) - Treat others as you wish to be treated. Be courteous to everyone whether or not they reciprocate.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #8](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-8/) - f you’re a manager or supervisor, implement and/or enforce a no-tolerance policy for abuse, nastiness, and harassment.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #7](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-7/) - Stand up for yourself when attacked or treated unfairly. Learn to use assertive language and body posture. You don’t have to feel assertive to act assertive.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #6](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-6/) - When you have a conflict with someone, talk it out face to face whenever possible. Be prepared to apologize when necessary & to meet the other person 1/2 way.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #5](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-5/) - Master conflict management skills. Whenever there are two or more people in the same place, conflict is bound to happen.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #4](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-4/) - Make self-care a priority. It’s hard to be a decent human being when you’re stressed, sleep deprived, and abusing food, alcohol, or other substances.
- [Get in the Game](https://donnacardillo.com/get-in-the-game/) - I had made a conscious choice early on to be a participant rather than a spectator in my own life.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #3](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-3/) - Don’t criticize, complain, or gossip lest you will be the recipient of same.
- [Fostering Horizontal Respect ------- Tip #2](https://donnacardillo.com/respect-tip-2/) - Step back and take a look at your life and work. What steps do you need to take to get out of your rut or to feel more confident and happy?
- [Foster Horizontal Respect](https://donnacardillo.com/foster-horizontal-respect/) - If you’ve been in nursing a while, you may have heard the expression “horizontal hostility.” It’s time to take a fresh approach to an old problem.
- [Best Nurse Inspiration Blog](https://donnacardillo.com/best-nurse-inspiration-blog/) - Wilkes University School of Nursing put together a Top 10 Nursing Blog guide & my Motivation Café blog was recognized the BEST NURSE INSPIRATION BLOG.
- [Huddle - Up! Your Life Unlimited Podcast](https://donnacardillo.com/huddle-up-your-life-unlimited-podcast/) - Donna Cardillo guest starred in the amazing podcast, Your Life Unlimited hosted by Stephanie Staples.
- [Nurses Can Do Anything](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-can-do-anything/) - When I first got out of nursing school, I envisioned myself always working in a hospital emergency room.
- [Keep Singing](https://donnacardillo.com/keep-singing/) - One event or issue (be it loss, illness, failure) does not define you unless you let it. It is simply one verse in the total composition that is your life. Don’t let it drown out the totality of your song. Keep singing.
- [Falling Together - Press Release](https://donnacardillo.com/falling-together-press-release/) - Get full version "Falling Together" Press Release here
- [5 Healthy Ways to Start Your Day in 5 Minutes or Less](https://donnacardillo.com/startyourday/) - You don’t need a rigid schedule or even a lot of time to get each day off to an energetic and healthy start. Try a few of these quick and easy tips to improve your vitality, your mood, and your well-being. These tips are also great to try any time of the day for
- [The Write Stuff](https://donnacardillo.com/the-write-stuff/) - Recently, while having lunch with several women, one of them said, “I’d love to write, but I have no writing ability.” I chuckled to myself remembering that there was a time in my life when I was absolutely convinced I had no capacity to write. Then I learned that almost anyone can learn how to
- [How to Get Rich](https://donnacardillo.com/how-to-get-rich/) - Whenever things get very difficult or challenging in my life, those times when I don’t know how I’ll get through another day or week, I try to step back and ask myself: What are the lessons I need to learn here? Perhaps it’s to be more patient or compassionate, or to remind me of the suffering
- [Tossing Pebbles](https://donnacardillo.com/tossing-pebbles/) - Someone in my family recently needed home care services so we had a registered nurse, who happens to own the home care company, at our house to gather information and do an in-home assessment. As we spoke, she suddenly realized who I am and that years back she attended my "How to Start Your Own
- [Listen to your heart](https://donnacardillo.com/listen-to-your-heart/) - Success guru and famed author Napoleon Hill said, "The No. 1 reason people fail in life is because they listen to their friends, family, and neighbors." It’s so easy to get caught up in others’ expectations and opinions, especially when they are contrary to your own ideas and feed into your fears. But no one
- [Nursing Nirvana](https://donnacardillo.com/nursing-nirvana/) - Have you ever dreamt of spending time with current and aspiring nurse entrepreneurs, authors, coaches, leaders, and visionaries? Perhaps you have fantasized about spending three or four days with nurses who are nothing but positive and enthusiastic about the profession. And who hasn’t wished they could get away for a long weekend of pampering, relaxation,
- [Moving Beyond Hospital Walls](https://donnacardillo.com/moving-beyond-hospital-walls/) - Have you ever wondered how far you could move from the bedside in your career pursuits and still call yourself a nurse? Have you ever questioned whether your colleagues who work in nontraditional areas, such as quality assurance, are still working as nurses? Is your identity as a nurse tied up in the traditional realm
- [Don't Worry. Be Happy.](https://donnacardillo.com/dont-worry-be-happy/) - It is reported that the Aztecs worried every night about whether or not the sun would rise again the next morning. I’m sure that if it didn’t they would have found a way to work around it. But imagine all the unnecessary fear and stress they caused themselves, not to mention loss of sleep, worrying
- [Go Back to School and Change Your Life](https://donnacardillo.com/go-back-to-school-and-change-your-life/) - This post is sponsored by Capella University. There is plenty of compelling evidence these days to encourage nurses to further their education. And while many employers are either encouraging or requiring nurses to get a BSN, I have an even more compelling reason for you to go back to school: It will change your life
- [Ignore the Nay-Sayers](https://donnacardillo.com/ignore-the-nay-sayers/) - 20 years ago this month I launched my speaking/education business with a full day seminar titled Career Alternatives for Nurses. Fortunately 25 nurses showed up and I am grateful to every one of them (plus the thousands that have followed) to this day. But beforehand, I had quite a few people tell me why
- [Why Me?](https://donnacardillo.com/why-me/) - When we go through difficult times, it is easy to feel sorry for ourselves and ask, “Why me?” This type of thinking creates resistance and only causes more pain and anguish. Instead, try to ask yourself, “What are the lessons I need to learn here?” or “How can I grow from this experience?” Buddhism teaches
- [Tell Your Nursing Stories](https://donnacardillo.com/tell-your-nursing-stories/) - Stories, however short, are a powerful way to define and delineate the real value of what nurses do. This piece by Lynn Visser, RN beautifully illustrates how nurses make an impact. “I held her hand, looked her in the eye, and told her the procedure was all over. Then I said, ‘I was there the
- [Create a Nursing Tapestry](https://donnacardillo.com/create-a-nursing-tapestry/) - When I think about all the patients and their loved ones that I have worked with over the years, I know most of them don’t remember me nor I them. But I do know that I gave a little piece of myself to each of them and they to me and those threads make up
- [Don't Minimize Your Value](https://donnacardillo.com/dont-minimize-your-value/) - I was speaking to an 81 year old physician who had been recently hospitalized after a bad fall. He told me that in all his years in medicine, he never truly understood, until he was a patient himself, the vital role that nurses play in the healing process. I told him that what he “saw”
- [Message for New Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/message-for-new-nurses/) - Nursing is the most amazing profession. It will change you for the better as much as it will positively impact the lives of those you care for. It is challenging and rewarding, exhilarating, and at times exhausting. Saving lives and keeping the planet healthy are hard work! You’ll need all the support, encouragement, and determination
- [Don’t Compromise, Revitalize Your Nursing Career](https://donnacardillo.com/dont-compromise-revitalize-your-nursing-career/) - Have you ever wanted to go into law enforcement, heard that people in the computer industry are making good money, or wondered what it would be like to be part of the legal team in a courtroom? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, there is no need to leave your current profession
- [Humble Yourself to Learning](https://donnacardillo.com/humble-yourself-to-learning/) - Some people want to quit as soon as something seems hard or they can’t do it perfectly right away. But there is arrogance in that thought process—to think that you could become really good at something with minimal effort, time, or experience. Humble yourself to learning and you’ll eventually become an expert. ©Donna Cardillo.
- [Create Your Own Positive Reality in Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/create-your-own-positive-reality-in-nursing/) - Don’t buy into anyone’s negative stereotypes or opinions about nurses. Some people thrive on negativism. Create your own positive reality. You’ll be happier and more successful, and you’ll positively influence those around you. ~Donna Cardillo ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Don’t Wait for Perfect](https://donnacardillo.com/dont-wait-for-perfect-2/) - Don’t wait for circumstances to be perfect before moving forward in your life; they never will be. And so much can happen while you’re waiting. Live your life while you have the chance. No one’s path is smooth or without obstacles. ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Build a Bridge](https://donnacardillo.com/build-a-bridge/) - Many of us hit low points in our life/career. I believe it is meant to shock us into action to build a bridge to a better life. ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Keep the Door Open](https://donnacardillo.com/keep-the-door-open/) - There were many times in my career (still are) when I had to say to someone more experienced than I, ‘I haven’t done this before. You’ll have to show me what to do.’ It was never easy to say but always opened up the door to learning. ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Keep the Connection](https://donnacardillo.com/keep-the-connection/) - One of the most important things you can do as a professional nurse is to be “present” in your work by staying focused on and fully aware that you are charged with caring for a fellow human being. That individual has a life and existence outside of the healthcare setting. And yet it is so
- [It Takes a Village](https://donnacardillo.com/it-takes-a-village/) - It takes a village to “raise” a new nurse. Let’s all commit to “raising” the type of nurse we want to work side by side with. Are you with me? ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Celebrate Your Life](https://donnacardillo.com/celebrate-your-life/) - Today I choose to celebrate my life. I may face obstacles, challenges, fear, self-doubt and even disappointment. But I will take it as it comes, grateful to be alive and immersed in the experience of living. ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Develop Your Spiritual Life](https://donnacardillo.com/develop-your-spiritual-life/) - Pema Chodrin says it is through spiritual practice that we are learning to make friends with ourselves and our lives. Work to develop a rich spiritual life through meditation, yoga, prayer, spending time in nature and so on. Read spiritual books, take courses, go on retreats. Get in touch with your true nature. This is
- [Say Your Prayers](https://donnacardillo.com/say-your-prayers/) - Prayer is communication with the Divine. It can be whispered or chanted or written or expressed in the work you do. However it is expressed, it is never in vain. ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [You’ll Reap What You Sow in Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/youll-reap-what-you-sow-in-nursing/) - Consider how it feels to be the new kid on the block. Knowing this, go out of your way to welcome and help new employees and students who come to your unit or workplace. What you reap, so shall you sow. ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Change Your Energy](https://donnacardillo.com/change-your-energy/) - Negative words, thoughts and actions create negative energy for you and those you direct them towards (including yourself). Think twice before you do any of them. Substitute something positive (actions, thoughts, words) even if you have to force yourself to do it. Your energy will change. ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Find respite in your day](https://donnacardillo.com/find-respite-in-your-day/) - To be effective and efficient, “disengage” from work, even for short periods of time. That’s the recommendation from Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz, the authors of The Power of Full Engagement, for people in fast-paced, high-stress situations. They claim that when you work nonstop for extended periods, you start to become less effective and more
- [Break out of prison](https://donnacardillo.com/break-out-of-prison/) - “Before you can break out of prison, you must realize you are locked up.” This is a sentiment that is popular in the substance abuse and recovery world. But it has broad applications for many of us. We often fall into a rut with our life and work and don’t have the clear vision to
- [Make Mistakes](https://donnacardillo.com/make-mistakes/) - Many of us don’t do things because we’re afraid we’ll make a mistake. But Vince Lombardi, legendary football player and coach, said: “If you’re not making mistakes, you’re not trying hard enough.” The point is that making mistakes is part of life and learning. ©Donna Cardillo. All rights reserved.
- [Learning Self-reliance](https://donnacardillo.com/learning-self-reliance/) - In the book “Lucky,” author Alice Sebold, who was brutally raped as a young woman, says, “You have to save yourself or you remain unsaved.” That’s a powerful testament to self-reliance and the need to be proactive in our own personal growth and development. We often look to outside sources such as other people, entities
- [Celebrate Your Own Journey](https://donnacardillo.com/celebrate-your-own-journey/) - I am often asked who my mentor was. I usually chuckle and say, “I didn't have a mentor. If I had, I probably would have gone farther, sooner.” But I’m not complaining. For some of us, the slow steady climb is the only way we can learn the lessons we need to learn and even
- [Adjust the view](https://donnacardillo.com/adjust-the-view/) - We don’t see the world as it is; we see it as we are. We choose to look through our own lens. That means that we put a spotlight on the things we choose to look at and block out those things we choose not to see. Change the lens and the picture changes.
- [Reconnect with yourself](https://donnacardillo.com/reconnect-with-yourself/) - Many of us have gotten so caught up in a cycle of “doing” — working at a constantly frantic pace in everyday life – that we’ve lost our sense of self. I often ask women what they enjoy doing. Some cannot answer the question because it’s been so long since they did anything for fun.
- [Take Action](https://donnacardillo.com/take-action/) - The immortal Dale Carnegie said, “Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” His point is well taken. The only way to move past fear and apprehension is to actually move through it and
- [Fill the Well](https://donnacardillo.com/fill-the-well/) - Self-care for nurses is not pampering, a luxury, or an extravagance. Plain and simple, it is routine maintenance for the body, mind, and spirit. If you’re not actively engaging in it, you are not working to your highest potential. Even worse, you are on a fast track to burnout and worse. When you neglect yourself,
- [Ask Questions](https://donnacardillo.com/ask-questions/) - When I was younger, I was afraid to ask questions. I feared it would show my ignorance, and I thought people would look down on me for “not knowing.” The problem with that was then I stayed in a perpetual state of “not knowing.” Experience alone is not always the best teacher. I eventually learned
- [Zen and the Art of Nursing - Seven ways to make the most of each workday](https://donnacardillo.com/zen-and-the-art-of-nursing-seven-ways-to-make-the-most-of-each-workday/) - The word “Zen” is often bandied about. Although many definitions of Zen exist, it’s simply the art of being present in everything you do, giving full attention to each action, each interaction, each task. Unfortunately, we often are mentally on to the next thing before we have finished what we’re currently doing, thus shortchanging the
- [Is Nursing Boring - Or Is It You?](https://donnacardillo.com/is-nursing-boring-or-is-it-you/) - I once heard someone say, "Life is not boring; people are boring." The implication is that if someone feels bored, it is his or her own fault because there is always something interesting to do, see, and learn in life. The same could be said for nursing. Yet I often hear nurses say, "I'm in a
- [Is "I'm Just a Nurse" a Cop-Out Phrase or a Simple Put-Down?](https://donnacardillo.com/is-im-just-a-nurse-a-cop-out-phrase-or-a-simple-put-down/) - I always advise nurses not to use phrases such as “I’m just a nurse” or “I’m only an RN.” My reasoning is that it demeans the nurse who says it and the entire profession. But interestingly I recently heard from a nurse who had read that advice in one of my articles and expressed an
- [What Lies Ahead](https://donnacardillo.com/what-lies-ahead/) - Most of us have experienced life events (illness, divorce, loss, change) that altered the future we had originally envisioned for ourselves. Some of us spend much of our time and energy in regret pining for what was. Yet philosopher Joseph Campbell says, “We must be willing to get rid of the life we planned, so
- [To Create Nursing’s Future, Today’s RNs Must Look To Great Leaders Of The Past](https://donnacardillo.com/to-create-nursings-future-todays-rns-must-look-to-great-leaders-of-the-past/) - On May 12, the final day of National Nurses Week, we once again will commemorate Florence Nightingale’s birthday. It’s a good time to reflect on her attributes and attitudes and the actions she used to ignite the evolution of nursing more than 150 years ago. Nightingale was tough and outspoken. She was an excellent communicator,
- [The Inspiration Nurse, Donna Cardillo, Hosts Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ Retreat to Combat Compassion Fatigue](https://donnacardillo.com/the-inspiration-nurse-donna-cardillo-hosts-empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-retreat-to-combat-compassion-fatigue/) - Tucson, AZ (February, 2015) Nurses are healers, teachers, nurturers and more often than not, tend to the health and well-being of others more than their own. On duty 24-7, and often dealing with emotionally-charged events such as the death of their patients, these dedicated professionals often neglect their own well-being for the sake of others
- [Commit random acts of kindness](https://donnacardillo.com/commit-random-acts-of-kindness/) - In case you didn’t read Pay It Forward by Catherine Ryan Hyde or see the movie of the same name, the concept is simple: Commit random acts of kindness for others without wanting or expecting anything in exchange — and ask that person to do the same for another. In other words, rather than expect
- [Steer as best you can](https://donnacardillo.com/steer-as-best-you-can/) - I grew up watching the Little Rascal’s TV series – a classic show about a bunch of kids having all types of adventures and life experiences. In one episode, the gang is racing down a steep hill on a home-made fire truck long enough to hold about 12 kids one behind the other. At some
- [Excuses, Excuses – Stop the cop-out cycle and take control of your life](https://donnacardillo.com/excuses-excuses-stop-the-cop-out-cycle-and-take-control-of-your-life/) - Instead of making commitments, many of us make excuses — excuses for why we supposedly can’t do the things we want to do in our lives and careers. In all the years I have been speaking and coaching, I have heard just about every imaginable excuse. But excuses are nothing more than self-created obstacles crafted
- [To Act or Not – It’s Your Decision](https://donnacardillo.com/to-act-or-not-its-your-decision/) - Anthony Robbins, the self-help guru, said, “I believe it’s our decisions, not the conditions of our lives, that determine our destiny.” That powerful statement implies that we each are more in control of our current and future situation than we might believe. Decisions create action, and action creates results. Making decisions today will shape your
- [Create a system of regular energy renewal to balance energy expenditure.](https://donnacardillo.com/create-a-system-of-regular-energy-renewal-to-balance-energy-expenditure/) - The life force has a natural rhythm of intake and output. Just as the sun rises and sets, the ocean ebbs and flows, we breathe in and out, we sleep and wake-up--so too must you create a system of regular energy renewal to balance energy expenditure. It must become the rhythm of your existence to
- [Why take risks at all?](https://donnacardillo.com/why-take-risks-at-all/) - Whether or not you consider yourself a risk taker, you take risks every day in the course of your life and work. There are risks associated with everything you do. You can’t avoid risks; you can only minimize them. How? By getting as much information as you can, talking to experienced, knowledgeable people, doing some
- [Without goals, you’re just floundering](https://donnacardillo.com/without-goals-youre-just-floundering/) - Thoughts, ideas, and dreams are great, but they don’t create action — and action is what gets things done. There’s no better way to create positive action in your life than by writing down your goals. Think of this: Most of us spend more time planning our vacations than we do planning our lives. Scary?
- [Take steps to shift your focus from the negative to the positive.](https://donnacardillo.com/take-steps-to-shift-your-focus-from-the-negative-to-the-positive/) - There’s no question that how you view yourself, other people, and the world around you has a major impact on your ability to be happy and successful. Unfortunately, it’s human nature to dwell on the negative. We often have negative “tapes” playing in our heads, telling us that we’re not good enough, not smart
- [Energy, confidence, and enthusiasm can often be found in unexpected ways](https://donnacardillo.com/energy-confidence-and-enthusiasm-can-often-be-found-in-unexpected-ways/) - I finally bought myself some new workout clothes to wear to my circuit training classes. They are well-fitting, stylish, colorful and attractive. I feel like a million bucks in them even though I don’t have what one would call an “athlete’s body” by any stretch of the imagination. They replace the baggy, worn-out, over-sized, out-dated
- [The secret to accomplishing anything is to get started](https://donnacardillo.com/the-secret-to-accomplishing-anything-is-to-get-started/) - When considering going back to school for my master’s degree, I learned that the college allowed 5 years to complete the degree. I said to myself, five years is going to pass whether I’m in school or not. So at the end of that five years I could either have a degree or still be
- [One of My Nursing Heroes](https://donnacardillo.com/one-of-my-nursing-heroes-2/) - Each of us has our heroes in nursing; someone we admire for their clinical skills, compassionate caring nature, level-headedness, what they’ve done with their careers. One of my nursing heroes is a gal named Rosemary. We worked together years ago and stayed in touch over the years. She has always been one of the most
- [Open your eyes, your ears, and your mind to the bigger picture.](https://donnacardillo.com/open-your-eyes-your-ears-and-your-mind-to-the-bigger-picture/) - There is an old parable about 6 blind men going to see an elephant so each can determine for themselves what the animal is. Each one happens upon a different part of the beast: the tail, the ear, the leg, the trunk and so on. Because they cannot see the entire elephant, each draws specific
- [It’s all a matter of perspective.](https://donnacardillo.com/its-all-a-matter-of-perspective/) - I recently participated in a fund raiser for an organization that provides respite care for women going through cancer treatment. People from all walks of life attended for many reasons. I met women who are currently undergoing cancer treatment and others who were survivors. There were also family and friend groups walking in memory of
- [Time away from your daily routine gives you perspective](https://donnacardillo.com/time-away-from-your-daily-routine-gives-you-perspective/) - “Exfoliate” your spirit. When you get rid of the dead top layers, you facilitate growth and renewal. Take some time off from work if you have it coming – whether you have a traditional job or work from home. Others will somehow survive without you (make arrangements for children or other dependents if necessary). Time
- [Honor your inner child](https://donnacardillo.com/honor-your-inner-child/) - Honor your inner child: connect with your playful, creative, inquisitive, and curious self. If you’ve lost sight of this part of you, look for opportunities to express yourself again. If you never had a chance to be a child when you were young, you can do it now in appropriate ways and places. Play games,
- [Because if Momma ain’t well](https://donnacardillo.com/because-if-momma-aint-well/) - In her book "50 is the New Fifty" Suzanne Braun Levine has a chapter titled "Do Unto Yourself as You Have Been Doing Unto Others." Love it! That says it all. Because--to modify a popular saying--If Momma ain’t happy and energized, ain’t nobody gonna be happy and energized. ‘Momma’ in this case can be any
- [You can adapt](https://donnacardillo.com/you-can-adapt/) - Tip for those aged 40 and beyond: If you don’t want to be seen as, regarded as, or treated as “old,” stop making constant jokes in public about your poor vision and hearing, your ‘bad’ knees, hips, and feet, having ‘senior moments’ and outright referring to yourself as ‘old.’ And whatever you do, don’t say
- [When you give of yourself, life has meaning.](https://donnacardillo.com/when-you-give-of-yourself-life-has-meaning/) - Eleanor Roosevelt said, “When you cease to make a contribution you begin to die.” That’s probably why so many men from previous generations died within a year of retiring. When we no longer feel useful, we begin to wither away. This highlights why it is important to always stay engaged in life in a meaningful
- [Are you just a service provider?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-just-a-service-provider/) - A home care nurse recently said to me, “I didn’t realize how important it was to say a formal good-bye to my patients when they were leaving service until one of them contacted me and told me how upset she was that I didn’t.” The nurse added, “I really didn’t think we (meaning nurses) mean
- [Soar to your  highest potential.](https://donnacardillo.com/soar-to-your-highest-potential/) - Don’t buy into other people’s negative ‘labels.’ Some people like to refer to those who are organized and detail-oriented as “obsessive-compulsive” or to risk-takers and ‘doers’ as “over-achievers” or women who rise through the ranks of business and politics as “power-hungry” or “ruthless.” Know that these 'labels' do not represent you but come from the
- [Stop apologizing all the time.](https://donnacardillo.com/stop-apologizing-all-the-time/) - Many of us have a bad conversational habit of saying "I'm sorry" on a regular basis without even thinking about it. We say, 'I'm sorry, I didn't hear you," or "I'm sorry, are you busy right now?" Although we say it in an effort to be polite, it sounds like we're apologizing. I remember a
- [Be yourself, live fully, and dance to your own music.](https://donnacardillo.com/be-yourself-live-fully-and-dance-to-your-own-music/) - The legendary modern dancer and choreographer Martha Graham said, “There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other
- [I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up!](https://donnacardillo.com/i-dont-know-what-i-want-to-be-when-i-grow-up/) - Regina* had decided to give up on nursing. After 25 years in the profession, she had a “been there, done that” mentality and felt bored to tears. Her experience included multiple traditional and non-traditional specialties and multiple employers from hospitals to insurance companies. “I felt that I had exhausted my options in this profession and
- [Clap your hands and cheer for your efforts](https://donnacardillo.com/clap-your-hands-and-cheer-for-your-efforts/) - When a baby takes its first steps it usually falls. But we cheer and the baby is happy – why? Because she took those steps and we know the rest will work itself out in time. When we become adults and do something for the first time or have something to learn, we tend to
- [It’s always about the journey](https://donnacardillo.com/its-always-about-the-journey/) - I love to record and watch TV shows like America’s Got Talent and So You Think You Can Dance. Yes, there is some real talent there and the shows are certainly entertaining. But what I enjoy most, and find most inspiring, is that every single person who takes that stage, is living their dream, taking
- [Savor the present moment](https://donnacardillo.com/savor-the-present-moment/) - On August 1st an acquaintance said to me, with distress in her voice and on her face, “I can’t believe summer is almost over!” She said this on a magnificent day that was sunny, warm, and bright. I said to her, “If you’re focused on summer ending you will miss out on all the summer
- [Sometimes all it takes is a kind word](https://donnacardillo.com/sometimes-all-it-takes-is-a-kind-word/) - Years ago at one of my first public seminars, an attendee came up to me and shared her story. She’d been out of the workforce for some time taking care of a disabled daughter. She now needed to get back to work but had lost her confidence and sense of self. During our brief encounter,
- [Develop the Writer in You](https://donnacardillo.com/develop-the-writer-in-you/) - by Donna Cardillo, RN, MA Recently, while having lunch with several nurses, one of them said, “I’d love to write, but I have no writing ability.” I chuckled to myself remembering that there was a time in my life when I was absolutely convinced I had no capacity to write. Then I learned that almost
- [Write Your Way to Well-Being](https://donnacardillo.com/write-your-way-to-well-being/) - When most folks think about writing, they usually think about creative writing, correspondence or blogging – something for public consumption. But the simple act of putting pen to paper to express your thoughts and feelings “for your eyes only” can be both healing and transformative. It can lead to greater self-awareness, stress relief, increased happiness
- [Can a College Degree Make You Healthier and Happier?](https://donnacardillo.com/can-a-college-degree-make-you-healthier-and-happier/) - Most of us equate college education with career opportunities. And while more education does typically lead to higher earnings and more job opportunities, there are many other more personal benefits. For example, a recent study shows that those who have a bachelor’s degree or higher live about 9 years longer than those who don’t graduate
- [Failure = Growth](https://donnacardillo.com/failure-growth/) - Years ago, when I was still smoking, I, like many others, had tried numerous times to quit the habit only to fall off the wagon and pick up the deadly habit again. I always felt defeated and discouraged and often hopeless after each failed attempt. Then one day I heard the then-President of Smokers Anonymous
- [Dispell the Dark Clouds](https://donnacardillo.com/dispell-the-dark-clouds/) - A friend once recommended that I connect with a colleague of hers who she believed had much in common with me—similar career background etc. Always looking to make new personal and professional connections, I eagerly got in touch with the gal and we arranged to meet for breakfast. As soon as we sat down and
- [Keep Your Family Healthy This Fall](https://donnacardillo.com/keep-your-family-healthy-this-fall/) - Now that the kids are all back in school, they’ve hopefully settled into a new routine and are making friends and learning new things. But they are also being exposed to all kinds of germs and bacteria. So it’s important to teach and reinforce good health habits throughout the year to keep them safe, healthy
- [Out and About](https://donnacardillo.com/out-and-about/) - I’ve known a few people who are virtually house-bound because of illness or disability. Their greatest longing is often just to spend some time outdoors and engage in activities beyond the confines of their home. Yet many of us able-bodied individuals sentence ourselves to self-imposed house arrest, especially as we get older, and spend less
- [It's OK to Relax!](https://donnacardillo.com/its-ok-to-relax/) - Sometimes you just have to put your to-do list aside, scrap your plans for the day, and break your usual routine. You might decide to spend time with a friend or family member, do something for yourself, or just go out and have some solo fun. Work and chores will always wait, but life will
- [11 Ways to Avert the Flu](https://donnacardillo.com/11-ways-to-avert-the-flu/) - Cold and flu season is upon us. And while it may be impossible to avoid exposure, it is possible to minimize your chances of letting those nasty bugs take hold in your body. Here are 11 ways to fend off influenza. Wash your hands often and thoroughly. Flu and cold bugs are transmitted by droplets
- [Cold and Flu Home Remedies](https://donnacardillo.com/cold-and-flu-home-remedies/) - Boost your immune system, stay healthy, fight the pesky flu bug (and others), and treat the symptoms if you do come down with something with these home remedies. Click here for my blog on the 11 Ways to Avert the Flu. Green tea is known to have many properties that can help keep you in
- [Value Yourself](https://donnacardillo.com/value-yourself/) - There's been much in the news about domestic abuse after several well publicized cases of late. In a recent edition of "The Week" magazine, a piece on the subject quotes a women who waited 4 years to leave her abusive relationship (her husband was a wall street trader), "I confused pity for love and thought
- [In Sickness and in Health, Animals Really Are Man’s Best Friend](https://donnacardillo.com/in-sickness-and-in-health-animals-really-are-mans-best-friend/) - Pets have long been part of the American household. We’ve valued their companionship and their protection. But numerous studies have shown that animals help to keep us physically and emotionally healthy, help us heal, and provide life-enhancing and life-saving assistance. Pets have also been shown to foster independence, decrease loneliness and stress, and improve our
- [Caregivers Need to Remember Self-Care](https://donnacardillo.com/caregivers-need-to-remember-self-care/) - While facilitating a self-help group for caregivers years ago, one group member whom I’ll call Gladys, was an elderly mother of an adult son who had Multiple Sclerosis. She cooked for him, did his laundry and almost everything else. Gladys told us that she rarely left the house for more than an hour or two
- [Donna Cardillo, The Inspiration Nurse, Marks Nat’l Family Caregivers Month With Advice and a Retreat](https://donnacardillo.com/donna-cardillo-the-inspiration-nurse-marks-natl-family-caregivers-month-with-advice-and-a-retreat/) - Sea Girt, NJ (October, 2014) November is National Family Caregivers Month and a welcome sign to many. In fact, according to the National Alliance on Caregiving, over 65 million Americans care for sick, disabled and elderly family members and friends, saving the healthcare system $375 billion dollars annually. And while the focus remains on the
- [Don’t Sweat the Clinical Stuff](https://donnacardillo.com/dont-sweat-the-clinical-stuff/) - Many new nurses are in a panic because they have had very little if any opportunity to perform various procedures such as bladder catheterization, NG tube insertion, tracheostomy care, etc. They also fear that experienced nurses will turn their nose’s up at them for not having that proficiency or even exposure. But the truth is
- [Nurse Entrepreneurs A Growing Trend Lead by Inspiration Nurse Donna Cardillo](https://donnacardillo.com/nurse-entrepreneurs-a-growing-trend-lead-by-inspiration-nurse-donna-cardillo/) - Sea Girt, NJ (September, 2014) As healthcare evolves to meet the changing demographics and health needs of the population, so too does the role of the nurse. While once regarded as “assistants” to physicians, nurses are taking on a more active role in all areas of healthcare including as entrepreneurs and savvy business owners with
- [Can Too Much Sitting Make You Sick … or Worse?](https://donnacardillo.com/can-too-much-sitting-make-you-sick-or-worse/) - I’m standing up while writing this. Why? Because I’ve just been reading research from the last few years about the serious health risks of spending too much time in the day/week sitting down. And the scary part is that even though I exercise regularly, that may not be enough to counteract the damage done by
- [Lifestyle Changes, Long-term Benefits](https://donnacardillo.com/lifestyle-changes-long-term-benefits/) - We live in a quick-fix society. We want instant results with minimal pain, effort and sacrifice. When it comes to our health and appearance, we’re accustomed to looking for a pill or procedure, and many doctors are quick to prescribe them. But if the root cause of the problem or challenge is not addressed, drugs,
- [5 “Bad” Foods That Can Be Good for You](https://donnacardillo.com/5-bad-foods-that-can-be-good-for-you/) - A recent dinner guest of mine, while salting her food at the table, asserted defensively, “I’m sorry. I know no one uses salt anymore because it’s unhealthy but I enjoy salt on my food.” I was startled by her declaration and blanket statements about table salt. It got me thinking about how much confusing and
- [Be True To Yourself](https://donnacardillo.com/be-true-to-yourself/) - I was recently in conversation with a fellow business woman, probably about 60 years old. She is an optometrist (non-physician). Always interested in how and why people choose their career path, I asked her how she came to this profession. She cast her eyes downward and replied with an obvious sense of disappointment that what
- [Just Do Your Best](https://donnacardillo.com/just-do-your-best/) - I recently re-watched the movie 'Julie & Julia'. In one scene, Meryl Streep playing Julia Child says about cooking and baking, “Even if it doesn’t come out perfectly, never apologize; no excuses.” This is a wonderful analogy for almost anything we do. In cooking, as in life, do the best you can and be proud
- [Open the Door](https://donnacardillo.com/open-the-door/) - Joan Rivers said that she attributed her success to going through every door that was opened to her. That is a powerful insight. We all have doors open to us all the time but often we don’t see them because we become fixated on a closed door. Or perhaps we’re afraid of what lies ahead
- [Learn to Ride the Waves in Life](https://donnacardillo.com/waves-in-life/) - Bethany Hamilton is a young woman who, while surfing, lost her left arm during a shark attack in 2003. Her case was highly publicized, not only because of the incident but because three weeks later she got back on her surf board and hit the waves again. She made numerous TV appearances at that time.
- [When You're Served Disappointment, Find Positives for Your Plate](https://donnacardillo.com/served-disappointment/) - I was recently watching an episode of the Food Network’s popular competitive cooking show “Chopped.” One contestant is eliminated each round and the last chef standing goes home with a big prize. It was down to the final two contestants and the runner-up was announced, the last chef to get “chopped.” He was clearly deflated,
- [New Year’s Eve Safety Tips](https://donnacardillo.com/new-years-eve-safety-tips/) - Whatever your plans are for New Year’s Eve, here are some important tips to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy as you ring in the New Year. On New Year’s Eve: Stay off the roads if possible – even if you’re sober. To some folks, New Year’s Eve – day and night
- [Are you a Pollyanna?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-a-pollyanna/) - When someone calls another person a “Pollyanna” it is usually meant in a derogatory way. It implies that the person only sees the positives, and ignores the negatives, in any situation -- which some interpret as being naïve or denying reality. Yet the fictional Pollyanna, to whom the term refers, was an optimist who simply
- [Defend Your Family Against Cold & Flu](https://donnacardillo.com/defend-your-family-against-cold-flu/) - Cold and flu season are upon us. And while eating balanced meals, getting enough sleep, staying properly hydrated and minimizing stress are important ways to keep germs at bay, proper and frequent hand washing may be your best defense against infecting yourself and others. In fact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest
- [Help Yourself, Help Others](https://donnacardillo.com/help-yourself-help-others-2/) - My yoga instructor usually imparts some ‘yogic’ wisdom at the end of each class. This week he said, “We have two hands. One is to help others, and the other is to help ourselves.” Such a powerful message in so few words. It beautifully underscores not only the importance of tending to self, but conveys
- [Nurses Are Always “On Call”](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-are-always-on-call-2/) - Had to do a nursing intervention in the parking lot of my gym earlier in the year. I saw a woman with her elderly dad, unstable on his feet and down on one knee. She was struggling to get him up and panicking. I went to their assistance and helped her to get him into
- [12 Things You May Not Know About Registered Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/12-things-you-may-not-know-about-registered-nurses/) - National Nurses Week is celebrated from May 6 through May 12, the latter date falling on pioneering nurse Florence Nightingale’s birthday. And since misconceptions, misinformation and misunderstandings abound about the profession, here are a few points to set the record straight. 1. There are 3.1 million RNs in the US. We are the largest group
- [Top Warning Signs You Could Be Dehydrated (and Why It Matters)](https://donnacardillo.com/top-warning-signs-you-could-be-dehydrated-and-why-it-matters/) - Many of us walk around in a state of mild to moderate dehydration because we often don’t consume enough liquids to supply our bodies with the hydration it needs to function at its best. Chronic dehydration stresses our organs and can interfere with bodily functions leading in some cases to illness, irritability, fatigue, difficulty focusing
- [Even Nurses Make Mistakes](https://donnacardillo.com/even-nurses-make-mistakes/) - “When something bad happens, you have three choices. You can either let it define you, let it destroy you, or you can let it strengthen you." ~Unknown All of us make mistakes from time to time in our nursing careers and our lives. We’re only human. It can be a patient care issue or personal
- [Nurses Are Not Machines](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-are-not-machines/) - Know your limits. Many nurses are working 12-hour shifts these days which research tells us is detrimental to the body, mind and spirit. It pushes us to our limits and beyond, especially when working on consecutive days. And because this allows nurses to work only 3 days per week to accrue full time hours, some
- [We Don't Have To Make Perfect Decisions](https://donnacardillo.com/we-dont-have-to-make-perfect-decisions/) - Many of us sit on the fence about important decisions in our lives because we’re afraid of living with the consequences of making a wrong choice. We won’t make perfect decisions all the time, and we don’t have to. It’s been said that there are no wrong decisions, only different lessons to learn and different
- [Keep Up Rather Then Trying To Catch Up ](https://donnacardillo.com/keep-up-rather-then-trying-to-catch-up/) - The world around us is changing so rapidly, it can be overwhelming to say the least. But make an effort to stay on top of information, technology, styles and trends. Keep up rather then trying to catch up or worse...get left behind. Find a friend, family member, co-worker or even a consultant to help you.
- [Follow Your Heart, the Rest Will Work Itself Out](https://donnacardillo.com/follow-your-heart-the-rest-will-work-itself-out/) - Many people have quoted Steve Jobs over the last few years: "Your time is limited so don't waste it living someone else's life. " But here's the rest of the quote: "Don't be trapped by dogma which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out
- [Jump Start Your Life and Live Fully.](https://donnacardillo.com/jump-start-your-life-and-live-fully/) - Personal growth/change is hard and even painful at times...at least at first. On the surface it seems easier to stay put in whatever comfortable or uncomfortable rut you might be in. But "staying put" dulls your senses, slows your life force, and zaps your confidence. So learn something new, take a risk, make a big
- [Don’t Let Fear Hold You Back](https://donnacardillo.com/dont-let-fear-hold-you-back/) - Fear is always part of the equation when you’re stretching yourself, growing. And the bigger the goal, the bigger the fear. Think of it as growing pains. Knowing this, acknowledge it, face it, and embrace it. Then move through it, around it, or with it. Just don’t let fear hold you back and stop you
- [Learning Keeps You Young.](https://donnacardillo.com/learning-keeps-you-young/) - I often hear adults use excuses not to further their formal education such as, “It won’t help my career.” or “I plan to retire soon.” or “I’m out of the job market so why bother?” In truth, higher education may or may not directly impact your career. But there’s an even more important reason to
- [Step Out on That Stage...](https://donnacardillo.com/step-out-on-that-stage/) - One of the most inspirational videos I have ever seen is Susan Boyle’s audition on Britain’s Got Talent. She had a dream and takes an enormous risk, at the age of 48, by stepping out on that stage. Everyone clearly doubts her ability and is making fun of her before she even starts. But once
- [Focus on Living Fully](https://donnacardillo.com/focus-on-living-fully/) - I encounter many people, especially those over 50, who are fixated on the end of their life. They start to hold back, slow down, resist and reject life experiences because they think, “How much more time do I have?” or “I‘m too old.” That approach to life is a terrible waste of the precious time
- [Give Light and Be Uplifted in the Process](https://donnacardillo.com/give-light-and-be-uplifted-in-the-process/) - When my husband was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis years ago, needless to say we were both devastated. It felt like a dark cloud had descended on us and blocked out all the light. We began attending support groups and educational meetings to learn more about the disease along with coping mechanisms. We eventually began to
- [National Nurse Act of 2013](https://donnacardillo.com/national-nurse-act-of-2013/) - I support this bill and encourage you to do the same. It is a powerful opportunity to promote and facilitate what nurses do best: health education and promotion, wellness coaching, and chronic disease management and prevention. Contact your politicians and encourage them to support the bill. Let your voice be heard. National Nurse Act of
- [The Last Week of The Year Is a Good Time to Clean Out & Clean Up ](https://donnacardillo.com/the-last-week-of-the-year-is-a-good-time-to-clean-out-clean-up/) - The last week of the year is a good time to clean out & clean up your living space, desk, and so on. It's also a good time to clean up any emotional issues that are lingering - old hurts, resentments, and regrets. Journal about it, talk it over with a trusted friend, or write
- [When You Give of Yourself, You Give a Truly Priceless Gift.](https://donnacardillo.com/when-you-give-of-yourself-you-give-a-truly-priceless-gift/) - Many of us are busy buying gifts for others during the holiday season. But remember that the greatest gift you can give anyone is your time and attention. Spending time with those you love or those who need some human kindness/contact--listening to them, helping them with something, having a meal with them, doing fun things
- [Don't Forget How Far You've Come Already](https://donnacardillo.com/dont-forget-how-far-youve-come-already/) - We often think in terms of where we are now in life/career and where we still want to go. But we forget about how far we’ve already come. Take time to write down past accomplishments, successes, triumphs, and obstacles overcome. This might include getting through school, surviving a serious illness, getting a promotion at work,
- [Create a "vision board" for your future. ](https://donnacardillo.com/create-a-vision-board-for-your-future/) - Get a big piece of poster paper and cut out (from magazines/catalogs) images, pictures, and words that represent what you want to achieve, your goals, your dreams, what you'd like to have, where you'd like to be living, and so on. Hang it/keep it where you will see it often. This is a powerful exercise
- [Is Retirement Bad for Your Health?](https://donnacardillo.com/is-retirement-bad-for-your-health/) - Some of us may have heard stories of people who die within a year of retirement. In the modern world, the word “retirement” is being redefined and can mean a new beginning for many rather than the beginning of the end. There is an expression that says the day you stop living is the day
- [Prescription Safety: How To Store and Dispose of Your Medications](https://donnacardillo.com/prescription-safety-how-to-store-and-dispose-of-your-medications/) - How and where you store your medication has an impact of its ability to help you get better. Follow these timeless tips to stay healthy and safe. Most medication, whether prescription or over the counter, should be stored in a cool, dry place. Heat and moisture can impact its effectiveness and safety. Though convenient, the
- [You Got to Have Friends to Be Healthy](https://donnacardillo.com/you-got-to-have-friends-to-be-healthy/) - The 1973 Bette Midler hit song proclaims that you have to have friends to make the day last long. There is something to the song: There’s scientific evidence that having friends can also make your life, and your good health, last long too. The Nurses’ Health Studies launched by Harvard University in 1976 (and others),
- [Medicine Cabinet Basics: Your Shopping List](https://donnacardillo.com/medicine-cabinet-basics-your-shopping-list/) - It pays to be well prepared at home to deal with minor health issues as soon as they arise. Dr. Oz has shared his five surprising essentials for your home, but do you have the basics? Here’s what a well-stocked medicine cabinet should contain to handle most maladies. Antihistamines come in handy to reduce congestion
- [Sometimes The Giving Is In The Receiving](https://donnacardillo.com/sometimes-the-giving-is-in-the-receiving-2/) - Many years ago, after conducting a seminar out of state, I went to the hotel dining room for dinner. I noticed one of the seminar attendees sitting alone and I asked if I could join her. She appeared delighted and excited and we went on to have a lovely dinner. At the end of the
- [Nurse Power](https://donnacardillo.com/nurse-power/) - While watching TV recently, I saw an infomercial for a fitness program created by an RN. I was very excited for a variety of reasons. For starters, it is always thrilling to see or hear about a nurse who has found an innovative way to improve the health and wellness of the masses. I was
- [Doctor Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/doctor-nurses/) - The media seems to have suddenly glommed on to the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree and the fact that it will allow advanced practice nurses to use the title 'doctor.' I spoke with a reporter about this last week (who decided she wanted a 'hands-on' nurse to comment and not me - maybe she didn't like
- [Medicare for all](https://donnacardillo.com/medicare-for-all/) - There is a fascinating study and proposal out by the California Nurses Association http://www.calnurses.org/ about the benefits of expanding Medicare for all Americans. This is a must read for all nurses to begin to understand the direction that this country will likely go in to provide healthcare coverage for all citizens, what the financial impact would
- [What Nurses Wear](https://donnacardillo.com/what-nurses-wear/) - What nurses wear in patient care settings is a long and hotly debated subject. Years ago we all wore white uniforms and shoes and the females - caps. We stood out and were easily identifiable as nurses. Then the trend became to wear scrubs and nurses faded into a generic sea of healthcare workers, indistinguishable in many
- [Nursing Manifesto](https://donnacardillo.com/nursing-manifesto/) - I recently rediscovered an interesting and empowering movement known as the Nurse Manifest Project which was created by a group of nursing scholars. The web site www.nursemanifest.com describes the movement as "A Call to Conscience and Action...To raise awareness, To inspire action, and To open discussion of issues that are vital to nursing and healthcare around the globe." This
- [Are You Focused on 'Abundance'?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-focused-on-abundance/) - Adopt an attitude of gratitude. Be grateful for your current level of health, even if it isn’t perfect. Celebrate your 5 senses, to whatever degree they work for you. Appreciate the food you eat, the clothes you wear, and the roof over your head. You can choose to focus on what you perceive you
- [Don’t Wait For “Perfect” to Take Action](https://donnacardillo.com/you-dont-have-to-be-perfect-to-take-action/) - Don't wait for circumstances to be 'perfect' before moving forward in your life; they never will be. And so much can happen while you're "waiting." Live your life while you have the chance. No one's path is smooth or without obstacles. But we become strong and more alive by acting rather than hesitating. ©DonnaCardillo.
- [Who You Become Along Your Journey Is What Really Counts](https://donnacardillo.com/who-you-become-along-your-journey-is-what-really-counts/) - When considering taking action, setting a big goal, or taking a risk, we tend to think in terms of success or failure. But, rather than focusing on the outcome, try thinking about it in terms of “What can I learn? How can I grow?” You can only see so far down the road. The only
- [Isn't It Time to Do the Things You Want to Do?](https://donnacardillo.com/isnt-it-time-to-do-the-things-you-want-to-do/) - Stop waiting until you win the lottery (especially if you don’t buy tickets) to do the things you want to do or get. Instead, ask yourself, "How can I do that/get that?" Will you need to further your education to better your career prospects? Will you need to pump up the volume on your business?
- [Are You Ready to Jump In When You Have Something Scary to Do?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-ready-to-jump-in-when-you-have-something-scary-to-do/) - Often the fear of doing something is much worse than actually doing it. Keep in mind that it’s only once that you have to do something for the first time. After that, it begins to become old hat. When I was a kid taking swimming lessons, I had a great fear of jumping off
- [Learning to listen ](https://donnacardillo.com/learning-to-listen/) - Once, when I was a non-clinical department manager, I received a call from administration advising me that the adult son of one of our patients was irate about the fact that his mother was scheduled to be discharged. The man believed his mother was too sick to go home and was making accusations about the care
- [Are You Resisting or Accepting?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-resisting-or-accepting/) - Buddhism teaches us that pain is part of life but that suffering is optional. In other words, we all experience physical and emotional pain at some time but our reaction to that pain is what determines how much we suffer or if we suffer at all. It’s all about resistance vs. acceptance. I had a
- [Set Your Cosmic Alarm Clock ](https://donnacardillo.com/set-your-cosmic-alarm-clock/) - I recently attended religious services in a town I was visiting. Upon entering the facility I was handed a pamphlet that had the program in it and upcoming events. On the back was a lovely welcoming message that went, “To all who are lonely and need friendship; to all who are discouraged and need good
- [Breaking Free from Cosmic Cement](https://donnacardillo.com/breaking-free-from-cosmic-cement/) - There is a medical condition known as “locked-in syndrome” where muscles of the body are paralyzed. But some of us have self-inflicted “locked-in syndrome” of the mind. We get set in our ways and stuck in our thought process. When someone says of another “They’re set in their ways” it is never said in a
- [Conquering the Spiritual Zombie](https://donnacardillo.com/conquering-the-spiritual-zombie/) - Just because you are breathing and your heart is beating doesn’t mean you are fully alive. Many of us walk around like spiritual zombies – the half-dead. We go through the motions of life but are not truly living. And while it is challenging and even scary to break that cycle, it is so worth
- [Baby Steps, Baby Steps...](https://donnacardillo.com/baby-steps-baby-steps/) - In Bill Murray’s 1991 movie ‘What About Bob?’ Bill plays a loveable neurotic named Bob to Richard Dreyfuss’s uptight psychiatrist character who wrote a book titled Baby Steps. Whenever Bob would get nervous or scared, he’d repeat to himself ‘Baby steps, baby steps” to remind himself to just put one foot in front of the
- [Donna Cardillo Will Be Featured Speaker at NJ Governor’s Conference for Women](https://donnacardillo.com/donna-cardillo-will-be-featured-speaker-at-nj-governors-conference-for-women/) - Wall, NJ: Donna Cardillo, RN, a Wall Township resident, will be a featured speaker at the 2013 NJ Governor’s Conference for Women being held on June 3 at The War Memorial in Trenton. Governor Christie will be the keynote speaker at the event. Ms. Cardillo’s presentation, Success is a Journey, Not a Destination: Becoming Fearless
- [Don't Wait for Perfect](https://donnacardillo.com/dont-wait-for-perfect/) - Don't wait for circumstances to be 'perfect' before moving forward in your life; they never will be. And so much can happen while you're "waiting." Live your life while you have the chance. No one's path is smooth or without obstacles. But we become strong and more alive by acting rather than hesitating. So the
- [Hire a "Burnt Out" Nurse?](https://donnacardillo.com/hire-a-burnt-out-nurse/) - I recently came across an online article where an MD with a dermatology office practice is quoted advising his physician colleagues to hire a nurse who is “burnt out” and “no longer passionate about saving lives.” I was so shocked and appalled by this and other statements in the piece (and that this web site/writer
- [Knowing When It’s Time to Move On](https://donnacardillo.com/knowing-when-its-time-to-move-on/) - Do you wake up each workday with a headache or a knot in your stomach? Would you rather do anything than go to work? Do you feel disdain for your coworkers, supervisors and employer? Are you focused on the injustices and inequities of your work environment? Do you no longer get satisfaction from your job?
- [Nurses too sometimes need healing](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-too-sometimes-need-healing/) - I was blessed to have Richard Bolles, author of the classic and iconic career book, "What Color is Your Parachute?" write the foreword for my book "The ULTIMATE Career Guide for Nurses." I want to share what he wrote here because his message is powerful. Of course he makes reference to my book (I didn't edit
- [Never be afraid to share your heart with your patients](https://donnacardillo.com/never-be-afraid-to-share-your-heart-with-your-patients/) - "The patient was trembling as she told me she was 20 weeks pregnant and her water had broken while flying across the country. She was 3,000 miles from home, scared, and alone. I assured her she was at one of the best obstetric and neonatal facilities in the country. She lost the baby that day
- [Age Is a State of Mind](https://donnacardillo.com/age-is-a-state-of-mind/) - I always marvel at how hung up on age so many of us are — even when we’re still relatively young! I often receive Dear Donna questions such as: “I’m 28 years old. Am I too old to become a nurse?” or “I’m 48 years old and just got out of nursing school. Will anyone
- [Are we jeopardizing healthcare’s future by not hiring our new grads today?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-we-jeopardizing-healthcares-future-by-not-hiring-our-new-grads-today-2/) - You’re probably aware that many hospitals (and other healthcare facilities) across the country are not hiring new graduate nurses or are hiring very few. This has resulted in the newest members of our profession being forced to work in non-clinical settings right out of school, not finding any employment in health care for over a
- [Desperately Seeking Professionalism](https://donnacardillo.com/desperately-seeking-professionalism/) - I've been writing an online advice column as 'Dear Donna' at nurse.com for over 10 years. Nurses (and others) write in their career related questions and I answer them. Here's one such Q&A. Tell me what you think about the questioner's observations and my response to her. Dear Donna, I work for an insurance
- [Can this career be saved?](https://donnacardillo.com/can-this-career-be-saved/) - Regina* had decided to give up on nursing. After 25 years in the profession, she had a "been there, done that" mentality and felt bored to tears. Her experience included multiple traditional and non-traditional specialties and multiple employers from hospitals to insurance companies. "I felt that I had exhausted my options in this profession and
- [Could What Happened to Amanda Trujillo Happen To You??](https://donnacardillo.com/could-what-happened-to-amanda-trujillo-happen-to-you/) - In case you don’t frequent twitter, the nursing blogosphere, Facebook or other online nursing communities, Amanda Trujillo is a nurse in Arizona who is under investigation by the State Board of Nursing there. In short (you can read her account here) Amanda relates that when she became aware that a patient awaiting a liver transplant
- [Ode to My Nursing Cap](https://donnacardillo.com/ode-to-my-nursing-cap/) - While rummaging through the attic recently, I came upon my nurse’s cap. Now more than 40 years old, it had become a bit yellow and misshapen. As I held it in my hands, I felt a nostalgic smile cross my lips and was flooded with memories of what that cap had meant to me over
- [Nurses Being Called "Doctor"](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-being-called-doctor/) - The NY Times has run yet another article on the "outrage" that some physicians feel related to nurses with doctoral degrees using the title "Doctor." Am I the only one getting tired on reading about this? Back in January of 2009, there was another article titled Health Controversy: Is Your "Doctor" Really a Nurse? that
- [A Nurse's Passion](https://donnacardillo.com/a-nurses-passion/) - Guest post by M.J. Butler, RN A good friend of mine once asked me: “How do you unwind after something like that?” My friend Kelly is a nurse, just like me, and what she was talking about was one particular day at work which affected her very deeply. She wasn’t talking about the average hectic
- [Are we jeopardizing healthcare’s future by not hiring our new grads today?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-we-jeopardizing-healthcares-future-by-not-hiring-our-new-grads-today/) - You’re probably aware that many hospitals (and other healthcare facilities) across the country are not hiring new graduate nurses or are hiring very few. This has resulted in the newest members of our profession being forced to work in non-clinical settings right out of school, not finding any employment in health care for over a
- [Resume versus CV - what’s the difference?](https://donnacardillo.com/resume-versus-cv-whats-the-difference/) - Although many people use the terms “resume” and “CV” (curriculum vitae) interchangeably, they’re actually two different types of documents, each with its own distinct focus. Knowing the right format and use for each will save time and trouble (not to mention worry) with your future job pursuits. A resume is the 1-2 page career summary
- [Your Friendly Neighborhood Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/your-friendly-neighborhood-nurse/) - Guest post by Jennifer Payan RN, BSN, CCRN When many of us decided to become nurses, we viewed ourselves using our hard-earned skills within the walls of our workplace. We envisioned inserting IVs and foleys, changing dressings, hanging IV medications, and diligently educating at the bedside. What we did not foresee was the “off the
- [I Am A Nurse, I Am An Advocate](https://donnacardillo.com/i-am-a-nurse-i-am-an-advocate/) - Guest Post by Lynn Visser RN, BSN, CEN As I think back to nursing school, I clearly remember being told “Be a patient advocate!” I always held that message close to my heart, though found as a New Graduate Nurse being a patient advocate was something that was easier said than done. I started working
- [Sometimes the Giving Is In the Receiving](https://donnacardillo.com/sometimes-the-giving-is-in-the-receiving/) - Many years ago, after conducting a seminar out of state, I went to the hotel dining room for dinner. I noticed one of the seminar attendees sitting alone and I asked if I could join her. She appeared delighted and excited and we went on to have a lovely dinner. At the end of the
- [What Would Florence do? (WWFD) ](https://donnacardillo.com/what-would-florence-do-wwfd/) - Guest post by Kat, Student Nurse That is: What would Florence Nightingale do? I’m a fourth semester nursing student now. It’s hard to believe it…. the time is flying by now, and I can see the end of the tunnel. I can practically taste graduation! There are times now where I feel like a nurse.
- [Advice for New Nurses Seeking Work Part 3](https://donnacardillo.com/advice-for-new-nurses-seeking-work-part-3/) - New nurses, it's time to look in new directions for employment and to utilize new ways to find and get those jobs. The nursing job market is tight in most parts of the country and hospital jobs are particularly scarse for nurses - especially new nurses. If you haven't already, please read parts 1 and 2 of
- [Nursing's Future: The door has opened but are we prepared to enter?](https://donnacardillo.com/nursings-future-the-door-has-opened-but-are-we-prepared-to-enter/) - My latest guest blog post at American Nurse Today online: As the world around us changes, the demographics and health care needs of the population are evolving and costs continue to escalate out of control. As a result, the healthcare system in the US is reinventing itself in significant ways to meet the needs of current
- [Your First Year as a Nurse - 2nd edition!](https://donnacardillo.com/your-first-year-as-a-nurse-2nd-edition/) - I am excited to announce that the long-awaited second edition of my first book, Your First Year as a Nurse - Making the Transition from Total Novice to Successful Professional is finally in print. Today is the official launch date. You can get an autographed copy from my web site at www.dcardillo.com or find it
- [Politics is Nursing With Power](https://donnacardillo.com/politics-is-nursing-with-power/) - When she first ran for office, now?U.S. Senator Barbara Mikulski explained her transition from social worker to officeholder by claiming that, “Politics is social work with power.” A nurse could just as easily declare that “Politics is nursing with power.” After all, nurses have a huge stake in issues like availability of immunization and preventive
- [Are 12-hour Shifts Safe for Nurses and Patients?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-12-hour-shifts-safe-for-nurses-and-patients/) - They're popular with staff nurses but the research shows that they are adversely affecting nurses and patients alike. Read my recent guest blog post at American Nurse Today online and weigh in on this important issue. http://ow.ly/2YkQv
- [Advice for New Nurses Seeking Work Part 2](https://donnacardillo.com/advice-for-new-nurses-seeking-work-part-2/) - OK new grads, fill out those online applications if you want and send in your resumes and cover letters to the human resource department of area hospitals if you must. But understand that this is the least effective way to land a job, especially in today’s tight job market. So what should you be doing?
- [Self-Care: Follow-up from one year ago](https://donnacardillo.com/self-care-follow-up-from-one-year-ago/) - It has been one year to the day that I wrote my last self-care blog post (See Self-Care: Walking the Walk October 3, 2009). At that time I vowed not to take on any new volunteer projects for one year and I am happy to report that I kept that vow. I never realized how many
- [Advice for New Nurses Seeking Work Part 1](https://donnacardillo.com/tips-for-new-nurses-seeking-work-part-1/) - In case you’re not already aware of this, the job market for ALL nurses across the country is very tight right now with a few exceptions such as Texas, New Mexico, Phoenix area and a few others. Some new nurses think this challenge exists only in their home state. And some seasoned nurses think new
- [When Talking, Patient Privacy an Issue and a Right](https://donnacardillo.com/when-talking-patient-privacy-an-issue-and-a-right/) - A growing number of nurses and other healthcare workers have been fired from their jobs for postings on social media sites deemed to violate patient privacy. This is a real concern and will be the subject of another post. But here's another scenario that needs to be addressed - private conversations held in public places in
- [Florence Nightingale pledge - out of date?](https://donnacardillo.com/florence-nightingale-pledge-out-of-date/) - I recently came across the Florence Nightingale pledge, the one I took 35 years ago when I graduated from a hospital-based diploma nursing program. When reading it on the eve of the year 2010, it occurs to me that it needs to be updated to better reflect where nursing practice is today. Here's the original composed by Lystra
- [Donna's Top Ten Book Picks for Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/donnas-top-ten-book-picks-for-nurses/) - We in the nursing profession spend a lot of time reading clinical journals and books. But an equal amount of time needs to be devoted to personal and spiritual growth and development for balance and harmony. So here are my top ten must reads for nurses (and others, too). Each has been transformational for me in some way and
- [Has anyone ever been mean to you?](https://donnacardillo.com/has-anyone-ever-been-mean-to-you/) - While recently speaking at a nursing conference, the speaker before me was trying to make the point that nurses don't support each other. One more sweeping generalization to put a negative thought in everyone's head and start off the conference on the right note! She asked for a show of hands asking, "Who has ever had
- [Self-Care: Walking the Walk](https://donnacardillo.com/self-care-walking-the-walk/) - My life has been spinning out of control. The entire last year has been particularly "full" with business activities, new products and projects (I worked on 3 book projects this past year!!), volunteer work (I was president of the National Speakers Association - NJ Chapter) and lots of personal challenges. My husband has MS and has
- [New TV Show: Mercy](https://donnacardillo.com/new-tv-show-mercy/) - I just watched the premier of the newest medical drama "Mercy" on NBC which seems to focus on the lives of several key nursing characters. OK so it's TV and it's a drama so I shouldn't expect much reality, right? Both the characters and the medical situations were way over the top - lots of exaggeration, some of
- [Twittering away](https://donnacardillo.com/twittering-away/) - I'm finally on Twitter www.twitter.com/donnacardillorn and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/donna.wilkcardillo. Have been on LinkedIn but am now actually using it. Twitter is interesting and amazing and I'm enjoying using it. It can also be overwhelming but that is the power of it - the ability to reach so many people, many of who would never otherwise know
- [New Nursing Book](https://donnacardillo.com/new-nursing-book/) - My latest book, A Daybook for Beginning Nurses is hot off the presses. It was written for new graduates to inspire, motivate, and inform. There are 365 daily quotes, tips, and lessons to carry you through your first year in practice. Each "chapter" includes a career-related essay to support you along the way. Journal space accompanies
- [Nursing Jobs - Where are they?](https://donnacardillo.com/nursing-jobs-where-are-they/) - There seems to be a shortage of nursing jobs, as opposed to a shortage of nurses, for the time being. I am receiving many, many e-mails from both new graduates and experienced nurses who want to reenter the nursing work force but are finding traditional hospital nursing jobs in short supply. And while I cannot answer everyone's
- [The (TV) Year of the Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/the-tv-year-of-the-nurse/) - There is an interesting article on lemondrop.com by Laura Gilbert about the recent "run" of TV dramas featuring a nurse as the main character. She begs the question "Why are we suddenly so obsessed with nurses?" and hypothesizes about the answer. Read the post and my response here How would you answer the above question?
- [Expanding Your View of Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/expanding-your-view-of-nursing/) - While speaking at an association meeting (non-nursing) someone came up to me and said, "Do you help nurses who want to get out of nursing??" I said "Yes. I help them find another path in nursing if that's what it takes." This same person told me that her sister worked in a hospital, was totally
- [Nurse Jackie](https://donnacardillo.com/nurse-jackie/) - I've just had the opportunity to view the first episode of Nurse Jackie - a new drama premiering on June 8 on the Showtime Channel. You can preview the episode at http://www.sho.com/ by entering the password "shift happens." Although Jackie is a very flawed character, the episode portrays some strong, positive, and interesting realities of nursing as opposed to the
- [Nurse Practitioners Fill a Void](https://donnacardillo.com/nurse-practitioners-fill-a-void/) - With a nationwide shortage of primary care physicians and a need for more cost effective, accessible, and high quality health care, nurse practitioners continue to take the lead in preventive and primary care, especially with underserved populations. Read a related article and watch the accompanying video clip here. The NP quoted in the article and on the video
- [Exceptional Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/exceptional-nurses/) - Some of you may be familiar with Donna Maheady's work with disabled nurses and nursing students. If you aren't, be sure to visit the online community/resource center she created at www.exceptionalnurse.com. She also developed a wonderful calendar and related youtube video to showcase/celebrate nurses with disAbilities. Check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EJkQVhgwq0. And be sure to read/recomend her
- [TVs Impact on Nursing Profession](https://donnacardillo.com/tvs-impact-on-nursing-profession/) - An op-ed piece by Sandy Summers, RN appeared in today's Boston Sun. Check it out at http://tinyurl.com/qjkl82 Summer's assertion, the subject of her book Saving Lives, is that TV portrayals of nurses harm the public image of the profession and perpetuate incorrect and damaging stereotypes that nurses are minor players in the world of healthcare. Learn
- [2nd Career Nurses - yeah!](https://donnacardillo.com/2nd-career-nurses-yeah/) - An interesting study has come out of the University of Buffalo about how second career nurses are changing the face of nursing — for the better. The study indicated that second career nurses, those who had a previous degree in another major before pursuing a degree in nursing, are usually older, more motivated, and more
- [Weigh in on healthcare](https://donnacardillo.com/weigh-in-on-healthcare/) - President Obama's transition team has launched a web site www.change.gov. Here you can read about the incoming administration's healthcare agenda (scroll to the bottom of the page and click on 'Healthcare'). Once there you can submit your ideas and let your voice be heard. Be sure to include your nursing credentials after your name when submitting the form. It
- [Job crisis in nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/job-crisis-in-nursing/) - These are very interesting times in the world and in the nursing profession. We continue to read about the severe nursing shortage and how it will get even worse. And yet last week I spoke at an open house event for a NJ hospital and the majority of nurses in the audience, both new graduates
- [In need of some disturbance?](https://donnacardillo.com/in-need-of-some-disrturbance/) - I recently attended religious services in a town I was visiting. Upon entering the facility I was handed a pamphlet that had the program in it and upcoming events. On the back was a lovely welcoming message that went, "To all who are lonely and need friendship; to all who are discouraged and need good
- [Advocating for Patients...and Nurses!](https://donnacardillo.com/advocating-for-patientsand-nurses/) - As the president of the NJ Chapter of the National Speakers Association (www.nsaspeaker.org), I was recently asked to speak at a local Kiwanis International club meeting. I suggested speaking on the popular topic of public speaking but the event host said the members didn't do any public speaking and asked if I would speak about
- [No ''former" nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/no-former-nurses/) - I was recently speaking with a meeting planner (someone who orchestrates conferences and conventions for a client) and she said she wanted me to speak to a group of hospital managers, all 'former' nurses. "Former nurses?" I echoed. "Yes," she said. "They no longer do bedside nursing." I swallowed hard and gave her my spiel
- [Stepping out of my comfort zone](https://donnacardillo.com/stepping-out-of-my-comfort-zone/) - Last week I was installed as president of the National Speakers Association - NJ Chapter (I officially start in that role on July 1). I was once president of another association chapter but never a state-wide chapter. Also, the last association was all women; this one is men and women. So the experience will be
- [Ailing Economy Easing Nursing Shortage?](https://donnacardillo.com/ailing-economy-easing-nursing-shortage/) - There was an interesting story in the May 7 NY Times about how the sluggish economy and the rising cost of living is easing the nursing shortage. To summarize the main points, many actively working nurses are picking up extra shifts, nurses who have been out of the workforce are looking to return, and older nurses are delaying retirement -
- [Nursing a "Best Career"](https://donnacardillo.com/nursing-a-best-career/) - The March 24 issue of U.S. News & World Report magazine lists Registered Nurse as one of 31 of the best careers for the future. This list was compiled based on job satisfaction, training difficulty, prestige, job market outlook, and pay. Others on the list include dentist, pharmacist, occupational therapist, editor, ghost writer, and investment
- [Talk about what you do](https://donnacardillo.com/talk-about-what-you-do/) - I was recently named one of "50 Best Women in Business" by NJBIZ magazine. As such I was invited to attend a networking reception for all honorees. Everyone was very friendly and most of us were making an effort to meet and speak with as many of the awardees as possible. When people heard I
- [Expand your horizons](https://donnacardillo.com/expand-your-horizons/) - My blog has been quiet for the last few months as I put the finishing touches on my 2nd book The ULTIMATE Career Guide for Nurses. The guide will be in print in a few months and is being published by the Gannett Healthcare Group, the company that publishes Nursing Spectrum and NurseWeek magazines. Now I'm getting
- [Who wants to be a nurse?](https://donnacardillo.com/who-wants-to-be-a-nurse/) - I was recently interviewed for a cable television program where I was supposed to be discussing my business and the nursing profession in general. Out of the blue the host asks me, "Why doesn't anyone want to be a nurse?" The question threw me but as I composed myself, I realized that he must be
- [Nursing's future](https://donnacardillo.com/nursings-future/) - I'm writing from Kansas City, MO while getting ready to deliver the keynote address at the National Student Nurses Association MidYear Career Planning Conference. The hotel is filled with over 1000 student nurses from all over the country. They are of varying ages and backgrounds. Some are right out of high school and others have
- [Does credibility equal respect?](https://donnacardillo.com/does-credibility-equal-respect/) - Public polls frequently rank nurses as tops in credibility for all professions. Most nurses are proud of this fact and love to hear this. But the Center for Nursing Advocacy is not jumping for joy. Their assertion is that credibility does not equate respect. Read what their position is on this at http://www.nursingadvocacy.org/faq/most_trusted.html What do
- [Aren't nurses great?](https://donnacardillo.com/arent-nurses-great/) - I'm sitting in a hotel room in Las Vegas having just finished presenting 2 full day seminars back to back. I am always physically and mentally exhausted afterwards and often question why I do these seminars since it takes so much out of me. But then, I experience the outpouring of warmth, love and gratitude
- [Speaking in Public](https://donnacardillo.com/speaking-in-public/) - Why do nurses need to learn to speak in public? Because speaking is a great way to showcase your expertise, reach a broader audience with your message - be it health promotion, motivation, information - and make nursing more visible in all circles. Besides all that, nursing needs more articulate spokespeople to represent us in
- [Coaching](https://donnacardillo.com/coaching/) - I have been working with a life coach for the last several months. This is the second coach I have worked with, not counting my personal fitness coach who I work with only periodically, in the last several years and have gained benefit each time. A life coach - or any type of coach for
- [Write it down](https://donnacardillo.com/write-it-down/) - I just returned from a writing workshop presented by the best selling author SARK. The workshop was held at the Omega Center in Rhinebeck, NY. In addition to attending a wonderful workshop (I highly recommend anything by SARK) I had a chance to spend some quiet, reflective, alone time at a center for spirtual growth
- [Self-empowerment](https://donnacardillo.com/self-empowerment/) - I've just finished reading The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. It's a powerful little book about the laws of attraction. If you're not familiar with the concept, simply put, it means that your thoughts dictate your life situation - your health, career, wealth and so on. The information is not new. It has been out there
- [Nurse Entrepreneurship](https://donnacardillo.com/nurse-entrepreneurship/) - I've noticed a distinct increase in interest about entrepreneurship amongst nurses in the last 6 months. I'm receiving more related questions through my online Dear Donna column and have seen the attendance at my How to Start Your Own Business or Consulting Practice seminars increase. My last live online chat at www.nurse.com was about nurse
- [Nursing Networks = Power](https://donnacardillo.com/nursing-colleagueship/) - I have belonged to the National Speakers Association for over 10 years. I knew that many of the members were nurses and would ocassionally see some of my nursing colleagues at the convention. However, I knew there were many more nurses in the association whom I had never met and assumed the same held true
- [Nursing's History ](https://donnacardillo.com/nursings-history/) - I've always been interested in the history of nursing. I have a small collection of nursing memorabilia including some old text books and photos. I even have a nurse's cape, which used to be part of a nurse's uniform, to be worn when outdoors. I was bummed when I found out nurses were no longer
- [AMA Opposes Minit Clinics run by NPs](https://donnacardillo.com/ama-opposes-minit-clinics-run-by-nps/) - Not surprisingly the American Medical Association is speaking out against the so-called Minit Clinics - retail based clinics such as those run by Wal-Mart, CVS, and Walgreen and staffed primarily by advanced practice nurses (APNs) - claiming that they "disrupt the standard physician-patient relationship and might result in missed diagnosis." Read more. The role of
- [Upcoming Seminars](https://donnacardillo.com/upcoming-seminars-2/) - I'll be presenting my second set of Double Header seminars for the year this July in New York City, NY. Career Alternatives for Nurses® will be presented on July 16. This program is a celebration of the diversity of nursing guaranteed to empower you for future success. Read about my career journey here. How to
- [Self-healing for nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/self-healing-for-nurses/) - I just read a great article in my local newspaper about self-healing for nurses. The article mentions how stressful nursing can be, leading to burnout. It goes on to say that nurses must be present with themselves in order to be present for their patients. One local hospital brought in a consultant to teach the
- [Remembering Our Nursing Colleagues](https://donnacardillo.com/remembering-our-nursing-colleagues/) - Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember those who lost their lives in military service. If you've never been to the Nurses Section of Arlington National Cemetary in Arlington, VA, please take a look. Read about The Spirit of Nursing statue that watches over our departed colleagues in their final resting place. I
- [Lillian Kinkella Keil ](https://donnacardillo.com/lillian-kinkella-keil/) - Lillian Kinkella Keil, RN was the most decorated woman veteran in US military history, had a movie made based on her life, and now has a US Post Office in California named after her. Read more about her amazing life and career. She died in 2005 at the age of 88.
- [Nurse-run Clinics](https://donnacardillo.com/nurse-run-clinics/) - There was an interesting article in the Wall Street Journal recently about the retail health clinics staffed by nurse practitioners such as those popping up in CVS and Wal-Mart stores. Not only do these clinics offer accessible, affordable healthcare to the community, they are a great venue for nurses to become more visible and recognizable as
- [Are you a compliment squasher?](https://donnacardillo.com/are-you-a-compliment-squasher/) - When a patient or family member compliments you on the great care you gave, do you respond with "It's just my job" or "That's what I get paid for"? Learn to honor yourself, your profession, and the person who offers the praise at http://www.dcardillo.com/articles/acceptingcompliments.html
- [Pay it Forward in Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/pay-it-forward-in-nursing/) - My latest article encourages nurses to go out of their way to do something nice for other nurses during Nurses Week and beyond. If you haven't read the article, please do so at http://www.dcardillo.com/articles/nursepayforward.html. Then write and let me know what you did and how it went over. Information on the "Pay It Forward" movement
- [Traveling for Nurses Week](https://donnacardillo.com/traveling-for-nurses-week/) - I'm leaving for Detroit this morning to speak at a hospital there tomorrow. I have 5 speaking engagements in the next 2 weeks for Nurses Week in 5 different cities and 4 states. Although things will be a bit hectic for me, they will also be exhilarating and joyous. I'll be speaking to hundreds of
- [Higher education for nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/higher-education-for-nurses/) - Last evening I attended a meeting of my state nurses association to participate in a discussion about a new resolution the association is proposing. The resolution, referred to as "BSN in 10" would require that new graduates from diploma and associate degree programs who graduate after a certain year would be required to complete their
- [Nurses House](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-house/) - During National Nurses Week, it is customary for nurses to receive gifts and special treatment - all well deserved. But let's not forget about those nurses who are struggling to survive this year because of illness, injury, disability, natural disasters, and other challenges. In the spirit of giving, please consider making a donation to Nurses
- [What I love about nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/what-i-love-about-nursing/) - I could write a book on this topic - in fact I already have (Your 1st Year as a Nurse) and am writing a second, due out this year - The ULTIMATE Career Guide for Nurses. In both books, and in many of my articles, I lovingly write about my 30+ year career and all the
- [Talk about Nurse Power!](https://donnacardillo.com/talk-about-nurse-power/) - Here are some great Nurse Power! facts http://www.aacn.nche.edu/Media/FactSheets/nursfact.htm. It's a good reminder of what we already have going for us. Spread the word! Here's a related article to help you do just that: Talk About What You Do http://www.dcardillo.com/articles/talk.html
- [Promote Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/promote-nursing/) - With spring career fairs planned in many high schools and middle schools, it's a good time to get yourself out into your community to encourage young people to consider nursing. Contact local schools and offer to represent your profession. Men and minorities have a particular responsibility to present themselves as role models for future nurses.
- [Support New Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/support-new-nurses/) - With spring just around the corner, we will be seeing an influx of new graduate nurses amongst our ranks. So much has changed in healthcare that new grads are more challenged than ever - higher acuity, shorter stays, staffing shortages, more technology, paperwork, and regulations! New nurses - regardless of age or prior work experience
- [My Trip To Germany - Part 2](https://donnacardillo.com/my-trip-to-germany-part-2/) - I'm writing from Germany - the little town of Bad Kissingen, known for it's health benefits. People travel far and wide to drink their spring water and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. I'm here speaking at a conference for military healthcare professionals. On Saturday I visited the medical center (see previous post) where most of the
- [My Trip to Germany](https://donnacardillo.com/my-trip-to-germany/) - I leave tomorrow evening for Germany (see 2/20 post Support Our Military Nurses). I have a sense of both anticipation and trepidation about visiting the hospitalized troops. I do feel privileged to have this opportunity to meet both our wounded service men and women and the nurses caring for them. Quite a few nurses and
- [Nurse Entrepreneurs](https://donnacardillo.com/nurse-entrepreneurs/) - I presented 2 seminars this week in - Career Alternatives for Nurses® and How to Start Your Own Business and Consulting Practice. Although there is always a lot of energy at both seminars, the business ownership seminar always seems to be supercharged. The nurses in attendance this week were some of the most amazing, innovative,
- [Double Header seminars in Atlantic City, NJ](https://donnacardillo.com/double-header-seminars-in-atlantic-city-nj/) - Seminar season is starting again and my first run is right around the corner. On March 5 and 6 I'll be in Atlantic City, NJ presenting Career Alternatives for Nurses® and How to Start Your Own Business or Consulting Practice. These seminars have become quite popular over the years. Regardless of one's career plans, it
- [Accepting Compliments](https://donnacardillo.com/accepting-compliments/) - We're all guilty of it at one time or another: Someone thanks you for helping him or her, and you respond, "It was nothing." A patient or family member praises you for the excellent care you gave, and you reply, "It's just my job." Read more of my latest article Accepting Compliments at http://www.dcardillo.com/articles/acceptingcompliments.html
- [New Web Pages](https://donnacardillo.com/new-web-pages/) - I am very excited to announce the addition of three new pages to the Nurse Power!® web site: Nurse Entrepreneurs; Cool Nursing Web Sites; Books by Nurse Authors. All three pages will be added to each month so check back regularly to see what's new. Three new ways to shine a positive light on the
- [Support our military nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/support-our-military-nurses/) - On March 9 I leave for Germany to speak at a military healthcare conference. I will be addressing all of the healthcare professionals in a keynote address but will be working primarily with nurses in subsequent sessions. The conference is for personnel working at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center; this is the military facility that receives
- [Networking](https://donnacardillo.com/networking/) - A few years ago, I received a phone call from a nurse who asked me to suggest some "business" groups she could attend for networking. She said that she knew networking was very important and that because "we don't have cocktail parties and similar events in nursing," she was looking for other avenues. I informed
- [Office of the National Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/office-of-the-national-nurse/) - Have you heard about the grassroots movement to create an Office of the National Nurse? Learn more about it at www.nationalnurse.blogspot.com. Here's an article with an update on the movement http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/551527?src=mp. You can also access the article at the National Nurse website above. Find out what's it all about so you can enter into related
- [Self-care Part 3](https://donnacardillo.com/self-care-part-3/) - I'm writing this note while on vacation at a destination spa in Arizona. I visited this place with a girlfriend 3 years ago for the first time. After that first stay I realized that, for me, this was not a luxary, but a necessity. It is the only time and way that I can completely
- [Universal Healthcare](https://donnacardillo.com/universal-healthcare/) - The discussion about universal healthcare coverage is heating up. It will undoubtedly be a major issue for the next administration. Nurses should be well versed on the subject so that they can contribute to intelligent discussion and debate and answer questions from the public. You'll find a lot of great information on the site of
- [Self-Care Part 2](https://donnacardillo.com/self-care-part-2/) - About a year ago, I visited a gifted healer in NJ for Reiki and energy work. I was feeling quite overwhelmed with my family life and demands of my work. After the session, I felt physically and mentally lighter. The next morning I felt compelled to meditate - something I had only dabbled in over
- [Online Nursing Community](https://donnacardillo.com/online-nursing-community/) - Many years ago I attended an American Nurses Association convention and heard about an online nursing community called NurseNet http://www.graduateresearch.com/NurseNet/. I subscribed to this listserv when I returned home and have been an active member ever since - almost 10 years. It is an amazing mix of nurses from all over the world in every
- [My Upcoming Trip to Germany](https://donnacardillo.com/my-upcoming-trip-to-germany/) - In March I'll be speaking at a military healthcare conference in Bad Kissingen, Germany. The attendees will be healthcare professionals assigned to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (http://www.landstuhl.healthcare.hqusareur.army.mil/) in Landstuhl, Germany. This facility receives all the US military causalities from Iraq and Afghanistan. I am told that the staff is suffering from "compassion fatigue" and
- [Self-care for nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/self-care-for-nurses/) - I've become increasingly interested in the topic of self-care for nurses. This is partly because of my own personal journey to heal and find balance in my life and work. The interest also stems from my work with nurses over the past 11 years and hearing countless stories about personal and career challenges. Nurses are
- [Nurses as Media Hosts](https://donnacardillo.com/nurses-in-the-media/) - An increasing number of nurses are hosting radio and TV programs and working as newscasters for health-related topics. And why not? Nurses are healthcare experts and facilitators. Two programs in particular, both radio broadcasts, are Healthstyles produced by Diana Mason RN PhD FAAN and Barbara Glickstein, RN, MPH, MS and Health in 30 with Barbara
- [Business Cards](https://donnacardillo.com/business-cards/) - Every nurse should have business cards made for themselves. Don't let the word 'business' throw you here; it's a calling card to be used for professional networking. You never know whom you're going to meet that you'd like to stay in touch with - colleague, prospective employer, vendor, etc. Here's a related article Make the
- [Welcome!](https://donnacardillo.com/welcome/) - Welcome to my Nurse Power! blog. I plan to keep you updated on issues related to nursing empowerment and nursing career development. I also plan to use the blog to share some of my experiences, including my travels, as a nurse entrepreneur. For example, I have a very exciting trip to Germany planned in March

## Pages

- [Home](https://donnacardillo.com/) - Donna Cardillo's presentations and events elevate nurses to live and work at their highest potential. Book Donna as the keynote speaker for your next event.
- [Home](https://donnacardillo.com/) - Donna Cardillo's presentations and events elevate nurses to live and work at their highest potential. Book Donna as the keynote speaker for your next event.
- [Events](https://donnacardillo.com/events/) - Get the details about Donna’s latest retreats, keynotes, book signings and more.
- [Writing Retreat Schedule](https://donnacardillo.com/events/writing-retreat-schedule/) - Writing Retreat Schedule Writing Retreat Schedule Friday:2 pm – Check in at your leisure4 pm – How Writing Will Enhance Your Life, Health, and Practice5 pm – Dinner6:30-9 pm – What Makes Good Writing Saturday:8 am – Breakfast9 am – Meditation and chair yoga9:30 am – Finding Your Voice/Creating Agency12-2 pm – Lunch and free time2-5
- [Writing Retreat FAQs](https://donnacardillo.com/events/writing-retreat-faqs/) - Writing Retreat FAQs Writing Retreat FAQs What is a writing retreat? A dedicated, inspired time and place to write, away from the distractions of everyday life. Who should attend? Any nurse or student nurse (RN, LPN/LVN, APN) whether employed, retired, or in transition who is interested in writing, storytelling, journaling, self-expression, and self-discovery.This retreat is
- [Writing Retreat Rates](https://donnacardillo.com/events/writing-retreat-rates/) - Writing Retreat Rates Writing Retreat Rates Register Now All-Inclusive Rates: $1,495.00 Room with private bath $1,295.00 Room with hallway bath (All rooms have sink and mirror) Full refund (minus $250.00 service fee) will be granted if canceled prior to August 28, 2026. Rates Include: All facilitated retreat sessions Daily meditation and chair yoga Two-nights accommodation
- [Writing Retreat for Nurses September 18-20, 2026](https://donnacardillo.com/events/writing-retreat-for-nurses-september-18-20-2026/) - Spend a relaxing, fun, and inspiring weekend with fellow nurses in a historic mansion as we use the written word to unleash creativity, and restore your soul.
- [For Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/for-nurses/) - Special resources, links, and articles for current and future nurses
- [About Donna](https://donnacardillo.com/about-donna/) - Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP (Certified Speaking Professional), FAAN (Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing) is The Inspiration Nurse. She is a powerhouse of energy, wisdom, humor, and solid content and has been referred to as a positive force of nature who lights a path for others to follow.Donna travels the world helping individuals
- [Schedule](https://donnacardillo.com/schedule-enep-canyon-ranch-2026/) - Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™Canyon Ranch, Lenox, MAThursday, March 19, 20265:30 p.m. (Optional) Group dinner – Silverleaf7:00 p.m. – 7:15 p.m. Introductions and Overview: Sargent Brook Lounge (SBL)7:15 p.m. – 9:15 p.m. Discuss nursing’s current and future roleFriday, March 20, 20269:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Redefining Who You/We Are as a Nurse and as a Profession:
- [Registration and Rates](https://donnacardillo.com/registration-and-rates-enep-canyon-ranch-2026/) - Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™Canyon Ranch, Lenox, MA Step 1: Register for the conference portion only here Retreat Fee: $449Includes 10 continuing education credits(Full refund of retreat fee portion, minus $250 service fee, will be granted if canceled 7 days prior.) Step 2: Make your resort stay reservation directly with the Canyon Ranch Group Sales Office Call (800) 954-5005 Monday –
- [Retreat FAQs](https://donnacardillo.com/retreat-faqs-canyon-ranch-2026/) - When does the retreat start/end?Our opening session is on the evening of Thursday, March 19 at 7:00 p.m. Our closing circle will end Sunday, March 22 at 11:00 a.m.Who should attend?All nurses at every stage of their careers including RNs, LPN/LVNs, advanced practice nurses – whether employed, unemployed, self-employed, retired, or student.Do I have to
- [Keynotes](https://donnacardillo.com/keynotes/) - Book Donna to be the keynote speaker at your next conference or professional development event. View descriptions of her inspirational, humorous, high-impact speaking topics here.
- [Writing Retreat for Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/events/writing-retreat-for-nurses/) - Spend a relaxing, fun, and inspiring weekend with fellow nurses in a historic mansion as we use the written word to unleash creativity, and restore your soul.
- [Writing Retreat for Nurses OLD](https://donnacardillo.com/events/writing-retreat-for-nurses-2/) - Spend a relaxing, fun, and inspiring weekend with fellow nurses in a historic mansion as we use the written word to unleash creativity, and restore your soul.
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ March 19-22, 2026](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-canyon-ranch-2026/)
- [Nursing Websites](https://donnacardillo.com/websites/) - Allnurses.comwww.allnurses.comA nursing community for nurses, the website helps empower those considering nursing, mentors nursing students, and offers practical advice to nurses throughout the world. American Academy of Nursingwww.aannet.orgServes the public and nursing profession by advancing health policy and practice through the generation, synthesis and dissemination of nursing knowledge. American Association of Colleges of Nursingwww.aacnnursing.orgInformation, trends, and
- [Writing Retreat for Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/events/writing-retreat-for-nurses-3-sept-2025/) - Spend a relaxing, fun, and inspiring weekend with fellow nurses in a historic mansion as we use the written word to unleash creativity, and restore your soul.
- [Clients & Testimonials](https://donnacardillo.com/clients-testimonials/) - What Audiences and Clients Are Saying About Donna Cardillo and Her Presentations Testimonials “Donna captivated our audience from the moment she took the stage at the NAON 45th Annual Congress. Her dynamic speaking style, insightful content, and genuine connection with attendees created an atmosphere of inspiration and engagement that set the tone for the entire
- [For Meeting Planners](https://donnacardillo.com/about-donna/meeting-planners/) - Donna Cardillo, RN [pronounced Car-dill-oh] known as the Inspiration Nurse, travels the world helping organizations and individuals to maximize their potential and stay fully engaged in life and career. She is fiercely passionate about healthcare and life in general. 
- [See Donna in Action](https://donnacardillo.com/about-donna/see-donna-in-action/) - “Our community of nurses and nurse leaders were inspired by your talk and fortunate to have the opportunity to hear you speak at UCF. Your standing ovation will be hard to beat!”Mary Lou Sole, PhD, RN, CCNS, CNL, FAAN, FCCMDean and Professor, Orlando Health Endowed Chair in Nursing The Power of Transformation Asking for What
- [Nurse Entrepreneurs](https://donnacardillo.com/nurseentrepreneurs/) - If you are a nurse who owns a business, send a note including your website address to Donna@DonnaCardillo.com for possible inclusion on this list. Subscribe to my mailing list to be notified of upcoming events, new products, news and inspiration. Renee Baldo RN BS MBAUnlimited Potentialupskincare.comUnlimited Potential focuses on skin and body care with a holistic
- [Writing Retreat - Registration Payment](https://donnacardillo.com/events/writing-retreat-registration/payment/) - Writing Retreat Registration - Payment Writing Retreat Registration: Payment Please click the button below to pay for your preferred room option.A new browser window to our payment cart will open. Proceed to Payment (Private Bath Option) Room with Private Bath: $1,495.00 Proceed to Payment (Hall Bath Option) Room with Hallway Bath: $1,295.00 Event Page schedule
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™- FAQs](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-faqs/) - A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers. At Miraval Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ on January 25 - January 28, 2024.
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-2024/) - A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers. At Miraval Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ on January 25 - January 28, 2024.
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™- Schedule](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-schedule/) - A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers. At Miraval Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ on January 25 - January 28, 2024.
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™- Rates](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-rates/) - A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers. At Miraval Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ on January 25 - January 28, 2024.
- [Books by Nurse Authors](https://donnacardillo.com/books/)
- [Writing Retreat for Nurses - OLD](https://donnacardillo.com/writing-retreat-for-nurses-old/) - Writing Retreat for Nurses Join us for a writing retreat in the beautiful, inspiring space of Villa Pauline in Mendham, NJSeptember 22-24, 20234pm Friday to 1pm Sunday "I will write my way to wellness." Spend a relaxing, fun, and inspiring weekend with nursing colleagues in a historic mansion as we use the written word to:
- [10th Anniversary Reunion - Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™](https://donnacardillo.com/events/10th-anniversary-reunion-empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice/) - Whether your passion for nursing is fired up or has fizzled out, Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ is for you! It has been created to empower, energize, and enlighten you for future success.
- [Retreat Schedule](https://donnacardillo.com/2022-empowered-nurse-enlightened-practicetm-retreat-schedule/) - 10th Anniversary Reunion Event – Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™Miraval, AZ Thursday, March 23, 2023 4:30 p.m. (Optional) Hors d’oeuvres – Coyote Moon Lounge 5:30 p.m. (Optional) Group dinner – Main Dining Room 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Introductions and Overview – Hopi Room Friday, March 24, 2023 9 a.m. – 12 noon Redefining Who You/We
- [Retreat FAQs](https://donnacardillo.com/2022-empowered-nurse-enlightened-practicetm-faq/) - Miraval Wellness Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ March 23- March 26, 2023 When does the retreat start/end? Our opening workshop is on the evening of Thursday, March 23 at 7 p.m. (see the schedule for earlier optional networking/dinner). Our closing circle will be Sunday, March 26 at 11 a.m. That is a total of three
- [Retreat Rates](https://donnacardillo.com/events/retreat-rates-enep-2023/) - Miraval Wellness Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ March 23 – March 26, 2023 Step 1. Register for the conference 1-848-241-3166 or register online here Registration: $449.00 (A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Contact us for more details.) Full refund of workshop fee portion (minus $35 service fee) will be granted if canceled
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-himalayaninstitute2022/) - A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers *9.5 contact hours! Whether your passion for nursing is fired up or has fizzled out, Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ is for you! It has been created to empower, energize, and enlighten you for future success. Himalayan Institute, Honesdale, PAApril 22 – April
- [Retreat FAQs](https://donnacardillo.com/events/retreat-faqs-himalayaninstitute2022/) - When does the retreat start/end? Our opening workshop is on the evening of Friday, April 22nd at 7:15 p.m. Our closing session will end Sunday, April 24th at 11 a.m. That is a total of two nights. Who should attend? All nurses at every stage of their careers including RNs, LPN/LVNs, advanced practice nurses, student
- [Retreat Schedule (Subject to change)](https://donnacardillo.com/events/retreat-schedule-himalayaninstitute2022/) - Friday, April 22, 2022 4:00-6:00 p.m. Check-in5:30 p.m. (Optional) Hatha Yoga Class6:00- 7:00 p.m. Dinner (private dining room)7:15-9:15 p.m. Opening session (Horizon Room) Saturday, April 23, 2022 7:00 a.m. Hatha Yoga Class (optional)7:30-8:30 a.m. Breakfast (private dining room)8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Making the Connection: Mindfulness in Nursing Practice and Life12:30-1:30 p.m. Lunch (private dining
- [Rates](https://donnacardillo.com/events/rates-himalayaninstitute2022/) - Step 1. Register for the conference 1-848-241-3166 or register online Early bird rate until April 8: $449.00 Regular rate as of April 9: $499.00 (A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Contact us for more details.) Full refund of workshop fee portion (minus $35 service fee) will be granted if canceled prior to April 1, 2022.
- [Contact Donna](https://donnacardillo.com/contact/) - Book Donna to speak at your next conference, convention, or professional development event.
- [Get Donna's Updates by Email!](https://donnacardillo.com/email-updates/) - Get Donna's latest e-letters and updates on new events: First Name*Last NameEmail* CAPTCHA Sign me up! Δ
- [Thanks for Signing Up!](https://donnacardillo.com/thanks-for-signing-up/) - Please check your inbox now for a welcome message.
- [How to Create a Profitable Speaking and Retreat Business](https://donnacardillo.com/events/how-to-create-a-profitable-speaking-and-retreat-business-online-workshop/) - Do something you've always wanted to do and attend this info-packed virtual event and tap into the wisdom, experience, and enthusiasm of an international keynote speaker, trainer, retreat, and seminar leader.
- [How to Create a Profitable Speaking and Retreat Business](https://donnacardillo.com/events/how-to-create-a-profitable-speaking-and-retreat-business/) - Speaking in public can be enjoyable and profitable when you learn and master the art, science, and business of professional speaking. Attend this Full Day info-packed program and tap into the wisdom, experience, and enthusiasm of an international keynote speaker, trainer, retreat and seminar leader.
- [How to Welcome New Grads into the Fold](https://donnacardillo.com/events/how-to-welcome-new-grads-into-the-fold/) - It’s that time of year again — graduations, pinning ceremonies, and new graduate nurses appearing in patient care areas.
- [Empowered Woman, Enlightened Life:<sup>™</sup> Living and Working to Your Highest Potential](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-woman-enlightened-life-living-and-working-to-your-highest-potential_2020_canyonranch/) - August 13-16, 2020 at Canyon Ranch Resort & Spa, Lenox, MA An empowering program for women from all backgrounds and stages of life. (9.9 contact hours approved for Registered Nurses.)* Spend a life-changing weekend with other like-minded women and me. Fees, Accommodations, and To Register It’s time to reexamine your goals, your happiness quotient, and
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice](https://donnacardillo.com/events/2022-empowered-nurse-enlightened-practicetm/) - Whether your passion for nursing is fired up or has fizzled out, Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ is for you! It has been created to empower, energize, and enlighten you for future success.
- [Retreat Schedule (Subject to change)](https://donnacardillo.com/retreat_himalayaninstitute-schedule/) - Himalayan Institute September 2019 Retreat Schedule
- [Retreat FAQs](https://donnacardillo.com/retreat_himalayaninstitute-faqs/) - When does the retreat start/end?Our opening workshop is the evening of Friday, September 6th at 7:15 p.m. Our closing session will end Sunday, September 9th at 11 a.m. That is a total of two nights.
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice](https://donnacardillo.com/events/events-2021-enep-himalayan-institute/) - Whether your passion for nursing is fired up or has fizzled out, Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ is for you! It has been created to empower, energize, and enlighten you for future success.
- [Rates](https://donnacardillo.com/retreat-rates_himalayaninstitute/) - Step 1. Register for the conference with DonnaCardillo.com
- [Retreat Rates](https://donnacardillo.com/events/2021-empowered-nurse-enlightened-practicetm-retreat-rates/) - Miraval Wellness Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ Coming Soon 2021 Step 1. Register for the conference 1-848-241-3166 or register online here Early bird registration through (date to be determined): $399.00 Registration as of (date to be determined): $450.00 (A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Contact us for more details.) Full refund of workshop
- [Virtual Presentations](https://donnacardillo.com/virtual-presentations/)
- [Retreat Schedule](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice/schedule/) - Thursday, April 4, 2019 4:30 p.m. (Optional) Hors d'oeuvres - Buffalo Bill Lounge 5:30 p.m. (Optional) Group dinner - Main Dining Room 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Introductions and Overview - Hopi Room Friday, April 5, 2019 9 a.m. to 12 noon Redefining Who You/We Are as a Nurse and as a Profession - Hopi Room
- [Retreat FAQs](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-kripalu-2/faqs/) - When does the retreat start/end? Our opening workshop is the evening of Thursday, April 4th at 7 p.m. (see the schedule for earlier optional networking/dinner). Our closing circle will be Sunday, April 7th at 11 a.m. That is a total of three resort nights. Who should attend? All nurses at every stage of their careers
- [Empowered Woman, Enlightened Life:<sup>™</sup> Living and Working to Your Highest Potential](https://donnacardillo.com/empowered-woman-enlightened-life-living-and-working-to-your-highest-potential/) - February 1 - 3, 2019 at The Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Stockbridge, MA An empowering program for women from all backgrounds and stages of life. (9.9 contact hours approved for Registered Nurses. See Kripalu website for details.)* Spend a life-changing weekend with me and other like-minded women. Fees, Accommodations, and To Register It’s
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice<sup>TM</sup>](https://donnacardillo.com/events/2019-empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice/) - Whether your passion for nursing is fired up or has fizzled out, Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ is for you! A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers.
- [Speak with Style for Fun & Profit](https://donnacardillo.com/2018-national-nurses-in-business-association-national-conference/) - Friday, October 12, 2018, 8:00 - 11:45 a.m. Las Vegas, NV (Pre-NNBA Conference Workshop) Yes, speaking in public can be enjoyable and profitable on many levels when you learn and master the art, science, and business of professional speaking. Attend this energizing, fun, and info-packed program and tap into the wisdom, experience, and enthusiasm of
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice<sup>TM</sup>](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice/) - A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers *9.5 contact hours! Miraval Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ March 30-April 2, 2017 Whether your passion for nursing is fired up or has fizzled out, Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ is for you! It has been created to empower, energize, and enlighten you
- [Falling Together](https://donnacardillo.com/events/falling-together-retreat/) - How to Find Balance, Joy, and Renewal ** This retreat is for ALL women at every stage of life. ** Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Stockbridge, MA (8.5 Contact Hours Approved for Nurses) March 3 - 5, 2017 Discover how each life struggle offers a choice: you can fall apart or take the opportunity to become more
- [Retreat Schedule](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-kripalu-2/retreat-schedule/) - Final Schedule Friday, December 17, 2016 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Introductions, Overview, and Opening Circle Saturday, December 18, 2016 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Redefining Who You/We Are as a Nurse and as a Profession 1:45 p.m. - 3:34 p.m. Making the Connection—Mindfulness in Nursing Practice and Life Sunday, December 19, 2016 9 a.m. to
- [Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice<sup>™</sup>](https://donnacardillo.com/events/empowered-nurse-enlightened-practice-kripalu-2/) - A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers Save the Date! December 2 - 4, 2016 - Stockbridge, MA The Kripalu Center Whether your passion for nursing is fired up or has fizzled out, Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ is for you! It has been created to empower, energize, and enlighten
- [Career Alternatives for Nurses® Live Seminar](https://donnacardillo.com/events/career-alternatives-live-seminar/) - Seminar Description Dates, Details & Registration What Participants Are Saying... Seminar Description The nursing job market is shifting and evolving - permanently! There has never been a better or more vital time to explore alternative career options in nursing. Learn about legal nurse consulting, medical aesthetics, life care planning, clinical documentation specialist, fitness nursing, medical coding
- [Life Transitions: Where do I go from here?](https://donnacardillo.com/events/life-transitions-retreat/) - For Women Only! Spend a relaxing, fun-filled day in a tranquil water-front setting creating a life plan that will keep you energized, engaged, and excited…possibly in a whole new way! If you’re a member of the human race, you’ve experienced more than one obstacle, set-back, or otherwise dark time in your life. Perhaps you’ve had
- [Nurse Entrepreneur Weekend Workshop & Getaway](https://donnacardillo.com/events/nurse-entrepreneur-weekend-workshop-getaway/) - At the Jersey Shore! For the established/experienced nurse entrepreneur Limited attendance – only 7 slots available November 7-9, 2014 Sea Spray Inn Bed & Breakfast Ocean Grove, NJ If you are a nurse who already has an operational business and wants to: Take your business to the next level Learn about/brainstorm innovative solutions and ideas
- [Reconnect, Refresh, Refocus: A Retreat for Caregivers](https://donnacardillo.com/events/reconnect-refresh-refocus-a-retreat-for-caregivers/) - Spend a relaxing, rejuvenating day in a tranquil ocean-front setting at the beautiful Jersey Shore. Pull back from your everyday responsibilities to connect with yourself and others who have walked in your shoes. Take time to share (by talking or listening) in a confidential, non-judgmental, and supportive environment. We’re all in this together. Those of
- [Test Download Cart](https://donnacardillo.com/test-download-cart/) - This is a test... Start Your Own Business Career Alternatives for Nurses
- [Workshops & Seminars](https://donnacardillo.com/workshops-seminars/) - Following are Donna's upcoming events and workshops: Retreats: Empowered Nurse, Enlightened Practice™ A transformative conference and retreat for nurses at every stage of their careers Miraval Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ Thursday, March 21 through Sunday March 24, 2013 Click here for details & registration. [divider top="0"] Webinars: Interviewing Successfully: How to Advance Your Career
- [Fans of Career Alternatives](https://donnacardillo.com/fans/) - [testimonial group="2"]

## Products

- [The ULTIMATE Career Guide for Nurses:  Practical Advice for Thriving at Every Stage of Your Career,  2nd ed.](https://donnacardillo.com/shop/the-ultimate-career-guide-for-nurses-2nd-edition-2/) - You are entering a profession that offers great rewards and endless opportunities. But you must prepare for the challenges ahead and do everything you can to ensure that you experience the best that nursing has to offer.
- [Donna’s 4-Book Special](https://donnacardillo.com/shop/save-20-on-donnas-4-book-special/) - Get all of Donna's books for one special price!
- [Falling Together: How to Find Balance, Joy, and Meaningful Change When Your Life Seems to be Falling Apart](https://donnacardillo.com/shop/falling-together-how-to-find-balance-joy-and-meaningful-change-when-your-life-seems-to-be-falling-apart/) - Falling Together shows how to turn the challenges that threaten to knock us to the ground into the building blocks we need to become more successful, more joyful, and ultimately, more alive.
- [Your First Year as a Nurse: Making the Transition From Total Novice to Successful Professional, 3rd ed.](https://donnacardillo.com/shop/your-first-year-as-a-nurse-3rd-edition/) - You are entering a profession that offers great rewards and endless opportunities. But you must prepare for the challenges ahead and do everything you can to ensure that you experience the best that nursing has to offer.
- [Nurse Power!™ Inspirational Art Posters](https://donnacardillo.com/shop/nurse-power-inspirational-art-posters/) - What happens when you combine uplifting words by The Inspiration Nurse with an inspired and artistic background? You get an explosion of inspiration, positivity, and aesthetics.
- [A Daybook for Beginning Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/shop/a-daybook-for-beginning-nurses/) - 365 days of inspiration, tips, and advice plus monthly thought-provoking essays. Journal space encourages readers to record their reflections, allowing them to document their life-changing journey into nursing.
- [Falling Together Inspirational Card Deck](https://donnacardillo.com/shop/falling-together-inspirational-card-deck/) - Each card in this 50-card set has been individually designed with a positive, empowering message and beautiful image to support the affirmation. Add some joy, positivity, and happiness to someone’s life including your own!

## Books

- [101 Global Leadership Lessons for Nurses: Shared Legacies From Leaders and Their Mentors](https://donnacardillo.com/books/101-global-leadership-lessons-for-nurses-shared-legacies-from-leaders-and-their-mentors/)
- [Do No Harm Applies To Nurses Too!](https://donnacardillo.com/books/do-no-harm-applies-to-nurses-too/)
- [Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job: The ultimate guide to landing your first nursing job…and your next](https://donnacardillo.com/books/your-last-nursing-class-how-to-land-your-first-nursing-job-the-ultimate-guide-to-landing-your-first-nursing-joband-your-next/)
- [Your 1st Year as a Nurse, Second Edition](https://donnacardillo.com/books/your-1st-year-as-a-nurse-second-edition/)
- [We Band of Angels: The Untold Story of Nurses Trapped on Bataan by the Japanese](https://donnacardillo.com/books/we-band-of-angels-the-untold-story-of-nurses-trapped-on-bataan-by-the-japanese/)
- [Womankind: Connection & Wisdom Around the World](https://donnacardillo.com/books/womankind-connection-wisdom-around-the-world/)
- [UNconventional Nurse: Going from Burnout to Bliss!](https://donnacardillo.com/books/unconventional-nurse-going-from-burnout-to-bliss/)
- [The ULTIMATE Career for Nurses: Practical Advice for Thriving at Every Stage of Your Career (2nd edition)](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-ultimate-career-for-nurses-practical-advice-for-thriving-at-every-stage-of-your-career-2nd-edition/)
- [Treasures of a Nurse’s Heart: My Mother’s Memoirs of Love and Wisdom for Everyday Life](https://donnacardillo.com/books/treasures-of-a-nurses-heart-my-mothers-memoirs-of-love-and-wisdom-for-everyday-life/)
- [Transforming Nurses’ Stress and Anger — Steps Toward Healing](https://donnacardillo.com/books/transforming-nurses-stress-and-anger-steps-toward-healing/)
- [Touched by Angels of Mercy](https://donnacardillo.com/books/touched-by-angels-of-mercy/)
- [Trauma Junkie: Memoirs of an Emergency Flight Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/books/trauma-junkie-memoirs-of-an-emergency-flight-nurse/)
- [Too Busy for Your Own Good: Get More Done in Less Time With Even More Energy](https://donnacardillo.com/books/too-busy-for-your-own-good-get-more-done-in-less-time-with-even-more-energy/)
- [This Won’t Hurt a Bit: A Lenny Moss Mystery](https://donnacardillo.com/books/this-wont-hurt-a-bit-a-lenny-moss-mystery/)
- [Tiny Sunbirds Far Away](https://donnacardillo.com/books/tiny-sunbirds-far-away/)
- [Tenderly Lift Me: Nurses Honored, Celebrated, and Remembered](https://donnacardillo.com/books/tenderly-lift-me-nurses-honored-celebrated-and-remembered/)
- [7 Summits: A Nurse’s Quest to Conquer Mountaineering and Life](https://donnacardillo.com/books/7-summits-a-nurses-quest-to-conquer-mountaineering-and-life/)
- [Self-Employed RN](https://donnacardillo.com/books/self-employed-rn/)
- [Savvy Networking for Nurses: Getting Connected and Staying connected in the 21st Century](https://donnacardillo.com/books/savvy-networking-for-nurses-getting-connected-and-staying-connected-in-the-21st-century/)
- [Saving Lives: Why the Media’s Portrayal of Nursing Puts Us All at Risk](https://donnacardillo.com/books/saving-lives-why-the-medias-portrayal-of-nursing-puts-us-all-at-risk/)
- [Save the First Dance for You: The Complete Nurse’s Guide to Serving Your Profession, Your Patient, and Yourself](https://donnacardillo.com/books/save-the-first-dance-for-you-the-complete-nurses-guide-to-serving-your-profession-your-patient-and-yourself/)
- [Safari for the Soul](https://donnacardillo.com/books/safari-for-the-soul/)
- [Rooted in the Mountains, Reaching to the World: Stories of Nursing and Midwifery at Kentucky’s Frontier School, 1939-1989](https://donnacardillo.com/books/rooted-in-the-mountains-reaching-to-the-world-stories-of-nursing-and-midwifery-at-kentuckys-frontier-school-1939-1989/)
- [The Richest Woman in Babylon and Manhattan: With Seven Timeless Remedies to Cure a Lean Purse](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-richest-woman-in-babylon-and-manhattan-with-seven-timeless-remedies-to-cure-a-lean-purse/)
- [The Real Healthcare Reform: How Embracing Civility Can Beat Back Burnout and Revive Your Healthcare Career](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-real-healthcare-reform-how-embracing-civility-can-beat-back-burnout-and-revive-your-healthcare-career/)
- [Rapid Access Guide for Triage and Emergency Nurses: Chief Complaints with High-Risk Presentations NEW!](https://donnacardillo.com/books/rapid-access-guide-for-triage-and-emergency-nurses-chief-complaints-with-high-risk-presentations-new/)
- [Ready, Set, Go Lead!](https://donnacardillo.com/books/ready-set-go-lead/)
- [The Path We Tread: Blacks in Nursing Worldwide 1854-1994](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-path-we-tread-blacks-in-nursing-worldwide-1854-1994/)
- [Pivotal Moments in Nursing: Leaders Who Changed the Profession, Volume II](https://donnacardillo.com/books/pivotal-moments-in-nursing-leaders-who-changed-the-profession-volume-ii/)
- [Phoenix Leadership: The Executive’s Strategy for Relevance and Resilience.](https://donnacardillo.com/books/phoenix-leadership-the-executives-strategy-for-relevance-and-resilience/)
- [Nursing School 101](https://donnacardillo.com/books/nursing-school-101/)
- [Nursing, The Finest Art: An Illustrated History](https://donnacardillo.com/books/nursing-the-finest-art-an-illustrated-history/)
- [Nurses Beyond Borders: True Stories of Heroism and Healing Around the World](https://donnacardillo.com/books/nurses-beyond-borders-true-stories-of-heroism-and-healing-around-the-world/)
- [Nurse: Past, Present and Future — The Making of Modern Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/books/nurse-past-present-and-future-the-making-of-modern-nursing/)
- [Nurses on the Run – Why They Come, Why They Stay](https://donnacardillo.com/books/nurses-on-the-run-why-they-come-why-they-stay/)
- [Nurses Making Policy: From Bedside to Boardroom](https://donnacardillo.com/books/nurses-making-policy-from-bedside-to-boardroom/)
- [The Nurse’s Etiquette Advantage: How Professional Etiquette Can Advance Your Nursing Career](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-nurses-etiquette-advantage-how-professional-etiquette-can-advance-your-nursing-career/)
- [Notes on Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/books/notes-on-nursing/)
- [No Gain! No Pain! A Mindful Approach to Weight Management](https://donnacardillo.com/books/no-gain-no-pain-a-mindful-approach-to-weight-management/)
- [Nightingale Tales: Stories from My Life as a Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/books/nightingale-tales-stories-from-my-life-as-a-nurse/)
- [The Nerdy Nurses Guide to Technology](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-nerdy-nurses-guide-to-technology/)
- [My Grandma Is A Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/books/my-grandma-is-a-nurse/)
- [Men in Nursing: History, Challenges, and Opportunities](https://donnacardillo.com/books/men-in-nursing-history-challenges-and-opportunities/)
- [The Making of a Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-making-of-a-nurse/)
- [Making a Difference: Stories from the Point of Care, Volume 1](https://donnacardillo.com/books/making-a-difference-stories-from-the-point-of-care-volume-1/)
- [Legal, Ethical and Political Issues in Nursing, 2nd edition](https://donnacardillo.com/books/legal-ethical-and-political-issues-in-nursing-2nd-edition/)
- [Leave No Nurse Behind: Nurses Working with Disabilities](https://donnacardillo.com/books/leave-no-nurse-behind-nurses-working-with-disabilities/)
- [Labor Pains: The Birth Stories of Nurse O’Neill!](https://donnacardillo.com/books/labor-pains-the-birth-stories-of-nurse-oneill/)
- [Kate: The Journal of a Confederate Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/books/kate-the-journal-of-a-confederate-nurse/)
- [The Journey Called You: A Roadmap to Self-Discovery and Acceptance](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-journey-called-you-a-roadmap-to-self-discovery-and-acceptance/)
- [The Joy of Nursing – Reclaiming Our Nobility](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-joy-of-nursing-reclaiming-our-nobility/)
- [I Wasn’t Strong Like This When I Started Out: True Stories of Becoming a Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/books/i-wasnt-strong-like-this-when-i-started-out-true-stories-of-becoming-a-nurse/)
- [Impaired: A Nurse’s Story of Addiction and Recovery](https://donnacardillo.com/books/impaired-a-nurses-story-of-addiction-and-recovery/)
- [The Imagine Project: Stories of Courage, Hope and Love](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-imagine-project-stories-of-courage-hope-and-love/)
- [Holistic Nursing, A Handbook for Practice – 7th Edition](https://donnacardillo.com/books/holistic-nursing-a-handbook-for-practice-7th-edition/)
- [Holistic Assertiveness Skills for Nurses: Empower Yourself (and Others!)](https://donnacardillo.com/books/holistic-assertiveness-skills-for-nurses-empower-yourself-and-others/)
- [Helping You Heal: A Book About Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/books/helping-you-heal-a-book-about-nurses/)
- [Healing Zen: Awakening to Life of Wholeness and Compassion While Caring for Yourself and Others](https://donnacardillo.com/books/healing-zen-awakening-to-life-of-wholeness-and-compassion-while-caring-for-yourself-and-others/)
- [Health Matters: A Pocket Guide for Working with Diverse Cultures and Underserved Populations](https://donnacardillo.com/books/health-matters-a-pocket-guide-for-working-with-diverse-cultures-and-underserved-populations/)
- [Health Literacy in Nursing: Providing Person-Centered Case](https://donnacardillo.com/books/health-literacy-in-nursing-providing-person-centered-case/)
- [Heartstrong: Living with a Dying Heart: A Memoir](https://donnacardillo.com/books/heartstrong-living-with-a-dying-heart-a-memoir/)
- [The Heart’s Truth: Essays on the Art of Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-hearts-truth-essays-on-the-art-of-nursing/)
- [The Good Nurse: A True Story of Medicine, Madness, and Murder](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-good-nurse-a-true-story-of-medicine-madness-and-murder/)
- [From Sun to Sun](https://donnacardillo.com/books/from-sun-to-sun/)
- [Florence Nightingale Today: Healing, Leadership, Global Action](https://donnacardillo.com/books/florence-nightingale-today-healing-leadership-global-action/)
- [Fast Facts for the Triage Nurse: An Orientation and Care Guide in a Nutshell](https://donnacardillo.com/books/fast-facts-for-the-triage-nurse-an-orientation-and-care-guide-in-a-nutshell/)
- [Falling Together – How To Find Balance, Joy and Meaningful Change When Your Life Seems to be Falling Apart](https://donnacardillo.com/books/falling-together-how-to-find-balance-joy-and-meaningful-change-when-your-life-seems-to-be-falling-apart/)
- [Entrepreneuring: A Nurse’s Guide to Starting a Business, 2nd Ed.](https://donnacardillo.com/books/entrepreneuring-a-nurses-guide-to-starting-a-business-2nd-ed/)
- [Encounters On The Front Line](https://donnacardillo.com/books/encounters-on-the-front-line/)
- [Eat THAT Cookie! Make Workplace Positivity Pay Off…For Individuals, Teams, and Organizations](https://donnacardillo.com/books/eat-that-cookie-make-workplace-positivity-pay-offfor-individuals-teams-and-organizations/)
- [Dressed to Keel](https://donnacardillo.com/books/dressed-to-keel/)
- [Does Change Have To Be So H.A.R.D.?](https://donnacardillo.com/books/does-change-have-to-be-so-h-a-r-d/)
- [The Death Class – A True Story About Life](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-death-class-a-true-story-about-life/)
- [Daily Miracles: Stories and Practices of Humanity and Excellence in Health Care](https://donnacardillo.com/books/daily-miracles-stories-and-practices-of-humanity-and-excellence-in-health-care/)
- [Critical Care: A New Nurse Faces Death, Life, and Everything in Between](https://donnacardillo.com/books/critical-care-a-new-nurse-faces-death-life-and-everything-in-between/)
- [Critical Care](https://donnacardillo.com/books/critical-care/)
- [Cooked: An Inner City Nursing Memoir](https://donnacardillo.com/books/cooked-an-inner-city-nursing-memoir/)
- [Conspiracies of Kindness: The Craft of Compassion at the Bedside of the Ill](https://donnacardillo.com/books/conspiracies-of-kindness-the-craft-of-compassion-at-the-bedside-of-the-ill/)
- [The Complexities of Care: Nursing Reconsidered](https://donnacardillo.com/books/the-complexities-of-care-nursing-reconsidered/)
- [Care of the Difficult Patient: A Nurse’s Guide](https://donnacardillo.com/books/care-of-the-difficult-patient-a-nurses-guide/)
- [Bellhaven](https://donnacardillo.com/books/bellhaven/)
- [Becoming Nursey: From Code Blues to Code Browns How to Care for Your Patients and Yourself](https://donnacardillo.com/books/becoming-nursey-from-code-blues-to-code-browns-how-to-care-for-your-patients-and-yourself/)
- [Becoming Influential: A Guide for Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/books/becoming-influential-a-guide-for-nurses/)
- [Beautiful Unbroken: One Nurse’s Life](https://donnacardillo.com/books/beautiful-unbroken-one-nurses-life/)
- [B Is For Balance](https://donnacardillo.com/books/b-is-for-balance/)
- [Assumed Dead](https://donnacardillo.com/books/assumed-dead/)
- [A Practical Guide to Finance and Budgeting: Skills for Nurse Managers](https://donnacardillo.com/books/a-practical-guide-to-finance-and-budgeting-skills-for-nurse-managers/)
- [And If I Perish: Frontline U.S. Army Nurses in World War II](https://donnacardillo.com/books/and-if-i-perish-frontline-u-s-army-nurses-in-world-war-ii/)
- [American Nightingale: The story of Frances Slanger, Forgotten Heroine of Normandy](https://donnacardillo.com/books/american-nightingale-the-story-of-frances-slanger-forgotten-heroine-of-normandy/)
- [African American and Cherokee Nurses in Appalachia: A History, 1900-1965 (Contributions to Southern Appalachian Studies)](https://donnacardillo.com/books/african-american-and-cherokee-nurses-in-appalachia-a-history-1900-1965-contributions-to-southern-appalachian-studies/)
- [Admit One: What You Must Know When Going to the Hospital-But No One Actually Tells You!](https://donnacardillo.com/books/admit-one-what-you-must-know-when-going-to-the-hospital-but-no-one-actually-tells-you/)
- [A Daybook for Nurses: Making a Difference Each Day](https://donnacardillo.com/books/a-daybook-for-nurses-making-a-difference-each-day/)
- [6 Shortcuts to Employee Engagement](https://donnacardillo.com/books/6-shortcuts-to-employee-engagement/)
- [A Daybook for Beginning Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/books/a-daybook-for-beginning-nurses/)

## Articles

- [Career Management Is a State of Mind](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/careermgmt/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Are you one of those people who think that career management is something you do only when you’re looking for a new job? If you are, you’ll be missing the boat as nurses “in the know” get a handle on managing their careers. Career management is actually
- [The Art of Civil Discourse: How to Argue and Disagree with Grace and Style](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/the-art-of-civil-discourse-how-to-argue-and-disagree-with-grace-and-style-article/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN During my years as a manager and director in healthcare settings, as well as sitting on multiple professional association boards over the years, I had to learn, often the hard way, the art of civil discourse. Simply stated, civil discourse is the ability of two or more people
- [Volunteering Is Good For Your Health… And Your Career](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/volunteering-is-good-for-your-health-and-your-career/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Volunteering has long been touted as a great way to “give back” and make a positive contribution to the world. And while all that is true, numerous studies have shown that people who do volunteer work for 2 or more hours per week have lower rates of
- [New Nurse, New Job Strategies](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/newnurse/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN The job market for nurses has shifted permanently. Not only is care, and the relevant jobs, moving out of hospitals and into alternative inpatient care settings, the home, and the community, but our health system is moving from an illness treatment model to a prevention and maintenance
- [From Student to Nurse: Six Tips for a Successful Transition](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/fromstudentto/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN You've dreamed and planned for your career as a nurse. You're working hard on that goal and the big day is rapidly approaching. But don't wait until you graduate to take steps toward making a smooth transition. Now is the time to start building a great foundation
- [Success Strategies for Student Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/success-students/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN If you're like most student nurses, you've planned and dreamed about the day when you'll begin your new career. But you don't have to wait until graduation to take steps to ensure your current and future success which includes giving yourself a competitive advantage.. By implementing the
- [Your First Year As a Nurse](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/yourfirstyear/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Your journey through nursing school has been long and arduous but an end is finally in sight. As you approach graduation you experience a strange mix of relief and panic. The realities that lie ahead as a professional nurse start to creep in making it hard to
- [Lean On Me](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/leanonme/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I'll let you in on a trade secret that took me some time to learn. One of the best ways to be successful in the nursing profession is to learn to rely on your fellow nurses for information, support, guidance and help. And contrary to what you
- [New Grads: You Can Do It!](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/new-grads/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN You made it! You survived nursing school, passed NCLEX, and landed your first job. All should be well, right? Maybe not. Like most new grads, you probably feel scared, overwhelmed, and unprepared for the challenges ahead. Once you're out of school and the reality of your chosen
- [New Credentials, New Role](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/newcredentials/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN You may think you put the hard work of becoming an advanced practice nurse (APN) behind you when you placed those new credentials after your name. But the real work - finding the job you want - has only begun. Congratulations! You've elevated your degree, your certifications,
- [FAQs About Student Nurse Résumés](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/faqnurseres/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Whether you graduate in December or May, it’s never too early to start crafting a résumé. Here are some commonly asked questions about student and new graduate nurse résumés. Should I include clinical rotations on my résumé? Emphasize your clinical experience by starting your résumé with a
- [Seven Myths About Resume Writing](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/seven/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Ask five people how to write a resume, and you’ll likely get five different opinions.While most people are well meaning, some dispense outdated or downright incorrect information. Let’s set the record straight about some of the common myths of resume writing. 1. Your resume must be on
- [Resume versus CV: Which Is Right for You?](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/resumes/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN If you’ve ever wondered whether there was really a difference between a resume and a curriculum vitae (CV), and if so which one you should be using, you’re not alone. Confusion reigns — and for good reason. Many people use the terms CV and resume interchangeably, even
- [What Not to Put on Your Resume](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/whatnot/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN When it comes to your resume, some things are best left unsaid. A resume that’s filled with outdated, unnecessary, and routine information can appear cluttered and cause the reader to lose interest. It can make you look less than professional and drown your accomplishments in a sea
- [Resume versus CV - what’s the difference?](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/resvscv/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Although many people use the terms “resume” and “CV” (curriculum vitae) interchangeably, they’re actually two different types of documents, each with its own distinct focus. Knowing the right format and use for each will save time and trouble (not to mention worry) with your future job pursuits.
- [Most Frequently Asked Questions About Resume Writing](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/freq/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Q: I’ve been told my resume should be only one page. Is that true? A: No, not for nurses. By the time you list your experience, your education, your licenses and certifications, you are already on two pages, even with limited experience. Two pages is perfectly acceptable.
- [Resume Writing Tips for Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/restrip/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Today's ideal job candidate must demonstrate a diversity of work-related experience in a resume easily understood by a general readership. The healthcare job market is continuously changing and nurses need to move from a strictly clinical, highly technical resume, to a more universal style that can be
- [Resume Writing Do’s and Don’ts](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/resumewriting/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Although a good resume can’t get you a job, a poor resume will keep you from getting one. A resume is a professional marketing tool, a written record of your accomplishments and professional credentials. Because it usually represents the first impression a prospective employer will have of
- [Seven Strategies for Sending Out Your Resume](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/seven-strategies/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN You know that the content and format of your resume is important, but don’t overlook the method by which you get it to the reader. Here are seven tips to follow when sending your next resume. 1. Always include a cover letter when you mail or fax
- [Keywords Are Key To Getting Your Online Resume Read](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/keywords/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN If you’ve ever posted you resume online, you were probably asked to fill out a section entitled “keywords.” Knowing the right keywords to use can make the difference in your resume being identified for further scrutiny or getting passed over in a sea of data. (See How
- [The Right Approach for the Right Interview](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/rightapproach/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN When most people talk about interviewing, they’re usually thinking about a traditional hiring interview. That’s the type in which you meet face to face with the person for whom you’ll likely be working directly. Much has been written about this type of interview, including an abundance of
- [Juggling Job Offers](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/juggling/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN It's bound to happen at some point. You're going on multiple job interviews, trying to find the right spot for your next career move. Things are going fairly well, and you've found several different positions that interest you. So far so good, right? But what if you
- [Follow-Up Is Good Form](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/followup/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Congratulations! You got through the interview. That's a feat in itself. But your work isn't done yet. Regardless of how the interview went, follow-up can help seal the deal and give you some additional leverage, especially in a tight job market. The right follow-up can even help
- [How to Negotiate the Salary You Want](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/negotiate/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Salary negotiation is an important part of many job interviews, yet it's something that makes most of us feel uncomfortable. Why? Because we were raised to be polite, not "pushy." However, learning to negotiate salary will give the impression that you have business savvy, lead to increased
- [Making Your First Impression Count](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/firstimpression/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Did you know that most employers decide within the first two minutes of an interview whether they might hire you? Research shows that that within those few brief moments, they get an impression about whether or not you’re a competent, credible person. But you might have less
- [Making the Most of Your References](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/references/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN More likely than not, you’ll be asked to provide professional references when you apply for a job. Choosing the right people for your references is important, but how you treat them can make the difference between getting the job and being knocked out of the running. The
- [Interview to “Knock Their Socks Off!”](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/knock/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN IN TODAY’S HIGHLY COMPETITIVE JOB MARKET, you’ve got to be one of the best, if not “The Best,” candidate for any job you go after. There’s no room for mediocrity here. So, how can you position yourself ahead of the competition on your next interview? Follow these
- [Corporate Makeover](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/makeover/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN You’re ready to make the transition from a traditional to a nontraditional area of nursing, for example, the pharmaceutical industry. But you wonder if you can survive the interview. The following tips will help you master the skills you need to succeed in a new setting. And
- [7 Deadly Sins of Job Hunting](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/sevensins/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Job hunting can be daunting, to say the least. But knowing what the major pitfalls are and how to avoid them can dramatically increase your chances of getting the job you want. Here are seven top blunders exhibited by job seekers and proactive solutions for success. If
- [Jump-start your job search](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/jumpstartjobsearch/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN A challenging economy is playing havoc with the job market—and nursing isn’t immune. Hospital closings and budget cuts abound. Older nurses are delaying retirement and others are increasing their hours. Whether you’re a new nurse seeking your first job, an experienced nurse looking to reenter the workforce,
- [How to Write an Effective Cover Letter](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/effectiveletter/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Every job you apply for is a little different, right? So should you be redoing your resume each time to match the particular job’s requirements? Hardly. In fact, your resume should remain relatively static during your job search unless you have new information or credentials to add.
- [Job-Hunting Challenges Take Some Troubleshooting](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/job-hunt/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN You finally get the courage to pound the pavement. You develop a resume, comb the classifieds, even snag a few interviews. But although you think you're doing everything right, you're not getting the results you want. What are you doing wrong? Here are some solutions for the
- [Ten Steps to a Successful Job Search](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/tensteps/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Let's face it, job security is a thing of the past. With downsizing, mergers, care and cost shifting, nurses are on the move more than ever before. All of us need to get ourselves professionally in shape to meet the future. This includes adopting a more business-like
- [6 Tips for Writing Effective Cover Letters](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/coverletters/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Having a well-written resume can go a long way toward getting you that job interview, but that’s only half the story. You also need a compelling cover letter. (See Resume Writing Do’s and Don’ts.) Always use a cover letter when sending a resume. If you’re faxing a
- [How To Use The Internet In Your Job Search](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/useinternet/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Using the Internet in your job search can help you reach more people, gain more information, and expand your horizons. Here are a few ways to put the World Wide Web to work for you as you manage your career in the 21st century. 1. Gather information
- [In Nursing, Pay It Forward](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/nursepayforward/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Nurses Week, which is just around the corner, is a time when we nurses receive special recognition and treatment for all the great work we do and for the difference we make 365 days a year. And while we’re accustomed to having others do nice things for
- [Don’t Compromise, Revitalize Your Nursing Career](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/compromise/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Have you ever wanted to go into law enforcement, heard that people in the computer industry are making good money, or wondered what it would be like to be part of the legal team in a courtroom? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, there
- [Spreading Your Wings: Career Alternatives for Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/spreading/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN My 30+ year nursing career has been an incredible journey — a personal journey of discovering who I am and what I am capable of doing, and a professional journey through the healthcare system that revealed how many different ways and places there are to use my
- [Career Alternatives for Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/caralt/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Have you always believed that your options in the nursing profession were limited to acute care, home care or long term care? Have you ever worried about what you would do if you developed a physical disability and were no longer able to work at your current
- [Moving Beyond Hospital Walls](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/movingbeyond/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Have you ever wondered how far you could move from the bedside in your career pursuits and still call yourself a nurse? Have you ever questioned whether your colleagues who work in nontraditional areas, such as quality assurance, are still working as nurses? Is your identity as
- [Midlife Makeover](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/midlifemakeover/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN When Arlene* and I first met, she described herself as a 55-year-old nurse who was “washed up.” She’d been unemployed for a year, having been laid off because of budget cuts from her last job, where she had worked for many years. “In the past, I’ve always
- [Overcoming Obstacles](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/overcomeobstacles/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Jane* has been in nursing for 26 years. She’s been out of the workforce for eight years looking after her sick parents. She wanted to go back to the hospital setting, so she telephoned nurse recruiters and applied for jobs. But they told her, “No recent experience,
- [I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up!](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/saveregina/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Regina* had decided to give up on nursing. After 25 years in the profession, she had a "been there, done that" mentality and felt bored to tears. Her experience included multiple traditional and non-traditional specialties and multiple employers from hospitals to insurance companies. "I felt that I
- [Coming Back From the Brink](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/fromthebrink/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Arlene was let go from her job because she made a medication error. When it happened, she was exhausted from working overtime and rushing to finish up before going home. Her patient wasn’t harmed, but her employer had a rigid medication error policy, so she was let
- [Broadening His Horizons](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/hishorizons/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Jordan (not his real name) had been a nurse for five years when he contacted me. He felt disillusioned with the profession: He wasn't getting the respect and recognition he deserved, and he wanted greater autonomy and more time to spend with patients. He had decided to
- [Is Retirement an Ending or New Beginning?](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/retirement/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN At age 68, Greta (not her real name) was preparing to retire from school nursing. She had spent 30 years at the same job and had an additional 15 years of prior nursing experience. "Honestly, I’m sad to leave nursing behind," she lamented. "It’s such a part
- [New Grad Nurse Woes](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/newgradwoes/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Ayesha* had been a newly licensed nurse for five months when she told me that she was leaving nursing. Before I could ask any questions, she started to cry and said, "My unit is short-staffed. I’m constantly told that I’m too slow, and my preceptor doesn’t seem
- [The Entrepreneurial Fire](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/entrepreneurialfire20/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Can this career be saved? This is an ongoing series about real nurses, real challenges, and real solutions. Corrine* had been in nursing for 24 years and had had enough. “I’m tired of managed care cutbacks, office politics with nasty people, paperwork, and regulations. I’m worn out
- [Reentering the Workforce](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/reenterwork/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Can this career be saved? This is an ongoing series about real nurses, real challenges, and real solutions. Jane* has been in nursing for 26 years. She's worked in med/surg, telemetry, intensive care, and home care. She's been out of the workforce for eight years looking after
- [Working with a Disability](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/savecareer106/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Karen* is a nurse who has something in common with countless other RNs — she has a disability. She is no longer able to lift, stand for long periods of time, or do repetitive work like typing. She is eligible to collect disability benefits, but she would
- [Career Transition](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/savecareer/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Over the years, I’ve worked with many nurses who were at a crossroads in their careers and needed a little help to move forward. Here’s one story: Janet is 42 years old and has been in nursing for more than 20 years. She’s worked as a med/surg
- [How to Handle Layoffs](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/howtohandlelayoffs/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN No matter what your profession or who your employer is, lay-offs have become part of the American landscape. In healthcare, we find ourselves in the midst of hospital and healthcare facility closings, downsizing, and reorganization. And while getting laid-off can be a shock to your system and
- [Six Strategies for Starting a New Job](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/strategiesfornewjob/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Congratulations! You’ve just landed a new job and are gearing up for your first day. You’re feeling a mixture of excitement and apprehension as you wonder how you will fit in, what your new coworkers will be like, and what new knowledge and skills you’ll need to
- [Make the Most of Your Employee Evaluation](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/employee-evaluation/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN For many people, their annual employee evaluation is a ritual in which their supervisor goes down a checklist of various characteristics and performance indicators. They remain passive through it all, believing they have no control over the content or the process. In reality, an evaluation is an
- [Gearing Up for Management](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/gearingupformanagement/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Are you a staff nurse who aspires to someday move into a supervisory role? Would you like to eventually work in nursing or health care administration? Are you considering a leadership role in a professional association or community group? Here are some steps to get you moving
- [Six Steps to Getting the Most from Your Job](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/sixstepstojob/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Every job you have holds opportunities for personal and professional development. You can go to work each day, put in your time and follow your job description to the letter, or you can look for ways to maximize your opportunities and experience. There are many ways to
- [Get the Scoop with Informational Interviewing](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/thescoop/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Informational interviewing is a highly effective, yet rarely used career management tool. It involves talking in a structured way to people who currently work in a particular area of practice in order to gather information and advice. It's an essential part of networking and job hunting, especially
- [Give Yourself a Career Makeover](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/giveyourselfmakeover/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN In case you haven’t noticed, there’s a national makeover craze going on. People are getting their homes redecorated, their wardrobes updated, or their noses fixed. In keeping with that theme, it may be time for a career makeover. Here are five areas in your professional life that
- [Picking Up the Pieces of Your Career](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/listing/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I'm often contacted by nurses who've had unique challenges in their professional life: a past history of substance abuse, serious illness or departure from a job under less-than-ideal circumstances. Maybe these situations have resulted in an erratic work history, a long absence from the workplace or diminished
- [How to Change Specialties](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/changespecial/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN While a small number of nurses retire from the same specialty in which they first started out, most are likely to change specialties once or more in their professional life. And why not? One of the great things about nursing is that there are so many different
- [How to Resign With Style](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/resign-style/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN You've decided it's time to move on. You've found another job, you've decided to pursue school on a full-time basis, or you want to spend more time with your family. Whatever the reason, you'll need to resign from your current position. Regardless of the circumstances under which
- [How to Find Your Forte](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/forte/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Often I hear, "I don't know what I want to be when I grow up." No, I don't hear it from young children, but rather from experienced nurses who are trying to figure out where they fit in healthcare. Are you like those nurses, searching for your
- [Is Your Career on Target?](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/target/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN NURSING IS MUCH MORE THAN A JOB. It is a career. And as such, it needs tending to and nurturing. Like your garden, it needs occasional weeding and fertilizing to get the results you want. While some nurses just keep plowing along, taking each day as it
- [Knowing When It’s Time to Move on](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/moveon/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Do you wake up each workday with a headache or a knot in your stomach? Would you rather do anything than go to work? Do you feel disdain for your coworkers, supervisors and employer? Are you focused on the injustices and inequities of your work environment? Do
- [The Value of Volunteering](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/volunteer/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Most people think of volunteering as charitable work, something you do to help others on your own time. However, volunteering is a valuable career resource that can enhance your career in numerous ways. Here are just a few of them. Volunteering in an area you’re trying to
- [How to Get the Most Out of Attending a Career Fair](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/fair/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Whether you are actively seeking employment or satisfied in your current position, career fairs are an important part of your ongoing career management plan. These events provide numerous benefits. In addition to keeping you abreast of industry changes, trends, and opportunities, they provide education and information on
- [Ten Tips to Help You Reboot Your Nursing Career](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/reboot-your-career/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Long before politicians debated passage of the Affordable Care Act, major healthcare changes were occurring. And just as the shifting of the earth’s tectonic plates reshapes continents, these changes are completely reshaping healthcare delivery in the United States. That shift translates to an evolving and expanded role
- [Nursing — A New Paradigm](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/nursing-a-new-paradigm/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Long before the Affordable Care Act became law, major changes were brewing in the U.S. healthcare system. The aging population, advances in technology and research, escalating healthcare costs and an epidemic of chronic illness have forced all of us in healthcare to step back and reevaluate virtually
- [Time to Refocus Your Career Lens!](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/time-to-refocus-your-career-lens/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN As healthcare evolves to meet the changing patient demographics and health needs of these patients and their families, so is the nursing job market changing and evolving. Here’s a snapshot of what’s developing: Hospital direct care vs. ambulatory and outpatient service 1. Hospital direct care jobs (bedside
- [To Create Nursing's Future, Today's RNs Must Look To Great Leaders Of The Past](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/createfuture/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN On May 12, the final day of National Nurses Week, we once again will commemorate Florence Nightingale's birthday. It's a good time to reflect on her attributes and attitudes and the actions she used to ignite the evolution of nursing more than 150 years ago. Nightingale was
- [Entrepreneurship -The Road Less Traveled](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/road-less-traveled/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Two roads diverged in a wood and I-I took the one less traveled by and that has made all the difference. — Robert Frost When I started my education business 22 years ago, I had a dream and a vision – to launch a public seminar for
- [How Nancy Nurse Got Her Groove Back](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/nursenancy/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Nancy became a nurse 15 years ago. Back then, she was altruistic and full of energy and enthusiasm. A decade and a half later, she found herself unhappy, disgruntled and disillusioned. She frequently proclaimed that nursing was a lousy career and discouraged prospective nurses from getting into
- [Zen and the Art of Nursing - Seven ways to make the most of each workday](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/zenandnursing/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN The word "Zen" is often bandied about. Although many definitions of Zen exist, it’s simply the art of being present in everything you do, giving full attention to each action, each interaction, each task. Unfortunately, we often are mentally on to the next thing before we have
- [Celebrate Nursing – All Year Long!](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/celebratenursing/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN National Nurses Week is the “official” time to shine a spotlight on nurses. But the truth is, we should be celebrating nurses and nursing every day throughout the year. So how can you get the ball rolling and start the party? Here are five ways: 1. Reflect
- [Make the Connection](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/maketheconnection/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN A woman who had written a book about her complete recovery from a devastating stroke was once a guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Some of her comments about the nurses she encountered startled and saddened me. But her remarks made me reflect on how I, and each
- [“I Save Lives. You?”](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/isavelives/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN While traveling on business, I noticed a billboard with a picture of a police officer on it. The caption read, "I save lives. What do you do?" What a powerful statement and a great way to illustrate the significant work police officers do. The same billboard could
- [Foster Horizontal Respect](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/horizonal/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN If you’ve been in nursing a while, you may have heard the expression “horizontal hostility.” This term is used to describe the workplace phenomenon of coworkers in high stress jobs taking out their frustrations on each other with abuse, nastiness, and indifference. The subject has been researched,
- [Get Ready to Relocate](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/relocate/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Moving and changing jobs have been documented as two of life's most stressful events. So it's not surprising that seeking employment in a new location can get you frazzled and on edge. The good news is that it's possible to minimize that stress, ease the transition, and
- [Nurses, Politics, Power](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/nursespoliticspower/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Years ago, I attended a legislative day sponsored by the New Jersey State Nurses Association held at the State House in Trenton, NJ. I sat in on a session of the house and met my local assemblyperson. I learned about state government and how bills are passed.
- [Show Support for Military Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/militarynurses/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Several years ago, I was contacted by a member of the nursing staff at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, the Army hospital that was receiving all wounded servicemembers transferred from Iraq and Afghanistan during that conflict, before being transferred to U.S. military facilities. I received an
- [This is Not Your Mom’s (or Dad’s) Profession](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/thisisnotyoumoms/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Things sure have changed in nursing and health care since I graduated from nursing school 30-plus years ago. And just as equipment, treatments, and procedures have changed, so too has the way we educate students, how we recruit and retain nurses, and how we support and manage
- [First Things First](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/firstthingsfirst/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN A lot has changed in nursing and health care over the last few decades. Resources are diminished, patient acuity is up, and everyone is expected to do more with less. Nursing has never been an easy profession, but it seems to be pushing our limits these days.
- [End Workplace Abuse](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/workplaceabuse/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Over the years, I've received quite a few questions through my Nurse.com Dear Donna advice column related to on-the-job abuse by physicians, coworkers, supervisors and patients. These incidents run the gamut from verbal abuse and name calling to prejudicial behavior and even hurled objects. Abuse of any
- [Lights, Camera, Action!](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/lightscamera/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I always get excited when I see or hear a nurse on television or radio. It’s probably because we’re hardly ever there! But it’s also because TV and radio appearances offer nurses the opportunity to show the world how bright, articulate, and knowledgeable we are. And while
- [Dear Editor: Writing Letters to the Media](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/letterstoeditor/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN There’s no question that the media have a big influence on how the public views nurses. So, providing regular input and feedback, both positive and negative, to editors, journalists, and producers is every nurse’s responsibility. Whether sending a note to the editor of a magazine or newspaper
- [Harness the Power of the Media](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/harness/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Numerous studies have shown that Americans get much of their information about health care from the media. Likewise, what they see and hear in the media, whether a TV drama or a print news story, influences how they perceive nurses and the work we do. And yet,
- [Celebrate the Diversity of Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/celebratediversity/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN If you’ve been in nursing a while, you’ve no doubt heard debates about who’s the better nurse, what constitutes a “real” nurse, and whether or not nurses working in a nontraditional position are burnt out bedside nurses. Here are some common debates and misconceptions that need to
- [Do Nurses Really Eat Their Young?](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/eatyoung/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I'm as mad as hell, and I'm not going to take this anymore. This famous line was spoken by Peter Finch in the 1976 movie classic Network. It also conveys how I feel about the fact that some of my colleagues love to perpetuate the notion that
- [Nursing and Entrepreneurship: Perfect Together](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/perfect-together/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Business ownership is part of the American dream. And why not? It provides the opportunity to be your own boss, make your own hours, and have creative freedom, flexibility of time, and unlimited earning potential. And while the concept of “business” is foreign to many nurses, we
- [How to Run an Effective Meeting](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/runameeting/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Every nurse will be responsible for running a meeting at some time, whether it’s on their unit, as part of a committee, or through a professional association. While many people dread meetings, they can be productive, and even invigorating, when well-run. There is an art and a
- [Closing the Generation Gap in Nursing](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/generationgap/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN The days of “one size fits all” are gone when it comes to recruiting, retaining, managing, and educating nurses. Besides ethnic diversity, the fact that Americans are working and living longer than ever before means that several different generations can be employed at the same workplace. And
- [Considering Consulting?](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/consulting/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Have you ever dreamed of being self-employed, working from home, or having a flexible work schedule? Would you like the creative freedom to do things your own way in your own style? Could you use supplemental income in addition to your regular job? Would you like to
- [With Office Politics, It’s Smart to Be Savvy](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/politics/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN The term “office politics” is often used in a negative way to refer to the backbiting and undercutting that occur in any workplace. In the broader sense, office politics refers to the many unwritten rules of the workplace that involve getting along with others, getting noticed and
- [Talk About What You Do](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/talk/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Too often, we RNs complain that the general public doesn’t understand what we do, that the press ignores us, and that other healthcare workers don’t respect us. Although there are many reasons for the above, at least part of the blame falls on us. We are notoriously
- [Promote – Don’t Pummel – Your Profession](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/promote/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Too often, I hear nurses say, “We don’t get the respect we deserve.” Most of us blame it on an uninformed media or insensitive administrators. But stop and think about it: The way you speak about yourself and your profession may be contributing to the problem. How
- [Just a Nurse? No Such Thing](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/justanurse/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN How many times have you said “I’m just a nurse” or “I’m only an RN / LPN.” When I hear someone say this I’m always tempted to say, “As opposed to what? Someone with a better job, better profession, better skills?” Nurses are multitalented individuals. We have
- [How to Welcome Newly Licensed Nurses into the Fold](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/welcomelicensed/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN It’s that time of year again — graduations, pinning ceremonies, and newly licensed nurses appearing in patient care areas. Although many new nurses/nurse residents are paired with preceptors or mentors, these people aren’t solely responsible for a new nurse’s growth and development. Just as it takes a
- [Age is a State of Mind](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/agestateofmind/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I always marvel at how hung up on age so many of us are — even when we're still relatively young! I often receive Dear Donna questions such as: "I'm 28 years old. Am I too old to become a nurse?" or "I'm 48 years old and
- [Develop the Writer in You](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/developwriter/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Recently, while having lunch with several nurses, one of them said, “I’d love to write, but I have no writing ability.” I chuckled to myself remembering that there was a time in my life when I was absolutely convinced I had no capacity to write. Then I
- [Set Goals and Change Your Life](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/setgoals/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN While January is the month we often associate with goal setting, any time of the year is the perfect time to reflect on where you are in your life and career and to think about what you'd like to accomplish in the future. Maybe you'd like to
- [The Write Way](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/thewriteway/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Whether you love to write or are as intimidated by the process as I used to be, journaling offers something of value for every nurse. And just as there are many ways to journal, there also are many misconceptions about the process. Journaling is a powerful tool.
- [Accepting Compliments](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/acceptingcompliments/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN We’re all guilty of it at one time or another: Someone thanks you for helping him or her, and you respond, "It was nothing." A patient or family member praises you for the excellent care you gave, and you reply, "It’s just my job." The above responses,
- [Seven Strategies for Managing Conflict](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/sevenstrategies/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Wherever there are people, there always will be conflict. It's a simple fact of life. Opinions vary, and miscommunications and misunderstandings occur. People have differing values and priorities, and most of us resist change. All of these things create conflict in our life and work. The problem
- [High-Tech Etiquette](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/hitechet/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Communication technology has made our lives a lot easier —and a lot more complicated at the same time. Although we can now reach virtually anyone in the world with relative ease 24 hours a day, we have also become a society of “communication junkies” who can’t be
- [In Praise of Public Libraries](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/library/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Where can you get free access to the Internet, have a personal research assistant, take classes, see an art exhibit, meet people, learn more about almost anything you want to know, or just spend some quiet time reading? Why, at your public library, of course! The public
- [Focus on the Positive](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/focus/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN There’s no question that how you view yourself, other people, and the world around you has a major impact on your ability to be happy and successful. Unfortunately, it’s human nature to dwell on the negative. We often have negative “tapes” playing in our heads, telling us
- [Excuses, Excuses - Stop the cop-out cycle and take control of your life](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/excuses/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Instead of making commitments, many of us make excuses — excuses for why we supposedly can’t do the things we want to do in our lives and careers. In all the years I have been speaking and coaching, I have heard just about every imaginable excuse. But
- [To Act or Not - It’s Your Decision](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/toactornot/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Anthony Robbins, the self-help guru, said, "I believe it's our decisions, not the conditions of our lives, that determine our destiny." That powerful statement implies that we each are more in control of our current and future situation than we might believe. Decisions create action, and action
- [Moving Past Fear](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/movingpastfear/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN You probably have dreams, hopes, and aspirations for your life. There are things you’d like to do and things you’d like to try. Maybe you imagine writing or teaching or moving into another specialty or applying for an interesting position at work. Maybe you’ve even contemplated moving
- [Master The Scholarship Game](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/scholargame/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I so often hear nurses say, “I can’t possibly go back to school. I simply don’t have the money and don't want to go into debt.” And yet there is more scholarship money available today than ever before. You just need to know where to look. Here
- [Listen Up!](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/listenup/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN When most of us think about effective communication, we think about how to best get our point across, right? Yet talking is only one aspect of communication, and some would say it’s the least important. Listening is key to the exchange of information and messages. There’s a
- [The Making of a Leader](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/makingleader/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN “A leader is someone who has a sense of what is right and has that at the heart of everything they do.” All you have to tell me is that you are a nurse, and I already know you have leadership skills. Every nurse has leadership skills.
- [Giving A Presentation](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/presentation/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Your hands are clammy. Your tongue is dry. You have a sudden urge to make a dash for the door. But first you have to speak. Now, step on that stage with confidence. It is a well-known fact that most people dread speaking in public. However, those
- [The Uncommon Handshake](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/handshake/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN The goal of this program is to teach nurses the significance of handshaking in their daily practice, to teach the acceptable method for shaking hands in a variety of situations, and to illustrate appropriate situations in which to shake hands. After you study the information presented here,
- [In Search of the Right Mentor](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/findmentor/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Much has been written about the benefits of mentoring and how to be a good mentor. But what if you're the one who needs to be mentored? How can you find the right person to guide you in your career? And how do you approach that person
- [Conversational Ice Breakers](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/ice/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN If you’ve read my articles or my online column or have ever attended one of my seminars, you know that I’m always touting networking as a must for nurses’ professional success. Hopefully, you’re convinced that networking is important. So you’ve dusted off your business suit, had business
- [Learn to Speak With Confidence](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/speak-confident/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Every nurse has to make a presentation of one type or another in her or his professional life. Whether presenting at grand rounds, conducting a department in-service, doing community education, teaching health related classes or speaking at orientation, good speaking skills are a necessity. The ability to
- [Haiku Writing For Holistic Nurses](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/haiku-writing-for-holistic-nurses/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN As holistic nurses, we often think of modalities such as Reiki, meditation, aromatherapy, and labyrinth walking to support wellness, balance, and inner peace for ourselves and those we serve. We also know that numerous forms of art, including writing and poetry, fall into the same category. Yet
- [How to Get Back to School](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/gobacktoschool/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Furthering your formal education is always a smart move, especially in today's competitive job market. But there's so much to think about when choosing a school, a major, method of finance and so on. So whether you've already decided to return to school or are at least
- [Go Back to School and Change Your Life](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/school2/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I have a confession to make: I never cared too much for school, and I was never a particularly good student. I always considered myself a "hands-on" person who wanted to dive right into things and learn as I went — in other words, on-the-job training. I
- [Myths about Networking](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/myths/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN If you’ve ever read my online column, spoken to a career coach, or read any best-selling books on career management, you’ll know that networking is one of the best things you can do for professional success. But misunderstandings and misconceptions about networking and what it can do
- [Getting the Most from Professional Associations](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/assoc/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN The benefits of joining professional associations are always being touted — and for good reason. Belonging is the best way to stay current on what's happening. You gain a competitive edge by being an active, informed member of your profession. You stay connected to your peers in
- [How to network successfully](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/networksuccess/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Build a team to help you reach your professional and personal goals. In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, you’ve got to be well-connected to keep up with the competition and stay current. Your best tool for success is a network - ongoing, mutually beneficial relationships with many people.
- [Put Your Best Foot Forward for Maximum Impact](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/putbestfoot/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Whether you’re networking at a career fair, introducing yourself to patients or their families, going on a job interview, or meeting colleagues for the first time at a professional association, the first few minutes of an encounter can shape the course and impact of your relationship. Starting
- [Why You Should Go Back to School](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/school/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN I have a confession to make: I never cared too much for school and never was a particularly good student. I always considered myself a hands-on person who wanted to dive right into things and learn as I went - in other words, on-the-job training. I never
- [How Networking Can Work For You](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/networkingwork4u/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN It doesn’t take a lot of effort, and it can pay off big. Networking may be an overworked buzzword, but it’s the most important thing you can do for personal and professional success. But what exactly is networking? Networking is, very simply, making personal contacts and connections
- [Steps for Successful Networking](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/networkingsteps/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Have you heard of the value of networking but don’t know how to get started? Do you consider yourself shy and uncomfortable striking up conversations? Then join the crowd. Most people feel exactly as you do and dread going out in public and meeting new people. However,
- [Winning Through Associations](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/associations/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Would you like to get a competitive edge in the workplace? Do you want to stay sharp with your knowledge and skills? Would you like to develop your leadership, speaking, and writing abilities? Do you want to have a voice in issues that affect nursing practice, licensure,
- [Make the Right Impression with Business Cards](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/buscard/) - By Donna Cardillo, MA, RN, CSP, FAAN Take a look the next time you see two professional people meet each other for the first time. Chances are, they’ll shake hands and exchange business cards. Each hands the other her card, looks it over, and gets on with the conversation or business at hand. If
- [Is nursing a profession or a job?](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/professionorjob/) - By Donna Cardillo, RN, MA I recently read an article on the web where the nurse author’s stated intent was to "enlighten" future and prospective nurses to the "harsh realities" of the profession. The piece listed things like the physicality of the job, the necessity of doing shift work, and a proclamation that nursing is
- [Reentering the Workforce](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/canthiscareer_reentering/) - By Donna Cardillo, RN, MA Can this career be saved? This is an ongoing series about real nurses, real challenges, and real solutions. Jane* has been in nursing for 26 years. She’s worked in med/surg, telemetry, intensive care, and home care. She’s been out of the workforce for eight years looking after her sick parents
- [Conversational Ice Breakers](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/ice-2/) - By Donna Cardillo, RN, MA If you’ve read my articles or my online column or have ever attended one of my seminars, you know that I’m always touting networking as a must for nurses’ professional success. Hopefully, you’re convinced that networking is important. So you’ve dusted off your business suit, had business cards printed, and
- [Beyond The Resume](https://donnacardillo.com/articles/beyondresume/) - By Donna Cardillo, RN, MA How to compile your nursing portfolio. These compilations of your competency may soon be required for relicensure. Here’s how to put all the pieces together. Once upon a time, you only had to show up at a hospital and say you were an RN, and you’d be hired on the

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