How to Get Out of Your Comfort Zone in Travel Nursing

You might not understand at first, or you may have been trained another way, but the best way to learn is to stay open to how every hospital does things just a little differently. — Jamey Rains

Growth Begins Where Comfort Ends

You knew travel nursing would be an adventure, but what you may not have expected is just how much person growth would come along with it. With every new city, facility, and assignment, you're stretching, learning, and evolving. And the key to thriving on this journey? Staying open and embracing discomfort.

Take charting, for example (spoiler alert: not all hospitals do it the same way). You maybe asked to relearn a new system or workflow every time you start somewhere new. Instead of resisting, lean in - each variation is a chance to expand your skills and build flexibility.

Here are some practical ways to step out of your comfort zone and continue growing as a travel nurse:

Set a SMART Goal

Think beyond your day-to-day. Whether you want to float between departments, chase the California sun from your Michigan hometown, or explore five new cities in a year - make it specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Then break it down into steps and track your progress.

Break Your Complacency Patterns

Falling into routines like binge-watching or scrolling for hours? Let each assignment shake things up. Try cooking new meals, exploring your current city, or picking up a new weekend habit.

Ditch the Excuses

Notice when you're telling yourself why you can't - then challenge it. Often, these excuses are just fear in disguise. Book the contract in a totally new part of the country. Try it for 13 weeks. You might surprise yourself.

Surround Yourself with the Right People

You become like the people you spend time with. So if your current circle is full of negativity, seek out people who inspire you. There are plenty of online communities where travel nurses support and uplift one another. Find your tribe and some new nurse friends online.

Find a Mentor or Role Model

Look for someone doing what you want to be doing - and learn from them. Ask questions. Follow their path. If they made it work, so can you.

Try Something New in Every City

You didn't move across the country just to stay home! Use apps like Groupon, LivingSocial, or TodayTix to find local experiences. Whether it's a cooking class, an escape room, or a kayak tour, say YES to new adventures!

Pick Up a Physical Hobby

Want's something your city offers that you've never tried? Rock climbing? Aerial yoga? Salsa dancing? Engaging your body and brain together builds confidence, and it's fun!

Take a Creative or Communication Class

Try pottery, improv, woodworking, or even a foreign language. Hands-on activities help you unplug from work, while communication-based classes can improve your professional interactions.

Volunteer or Give Back

Volunteering helps you connect with your new community in a meaningful ways. It's also a great way to meet people who share your values and passion.

It's All in Your Head (Literally)

Your brain wants to keep you safe by sticking to what's familiar. But staying small won't lead to growth, and you didn't sign up for travel nursing to play it safe. As the saying goes, you have nothing to fear but fear itself.

Baby Steps Are Still Steps

New things feel awkward at first - that's normal. Celebrate the small wins and keep moving forward. The confidence and growth will follow.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Check out our Clinician Spotlights on our blog for more real-world tips and inspiration.

Your dream travel nursing assignment is waiting! Search jobs now and take the first step toward your next adventure!