As a nurse,
being a social butterfly is a part of the job. If you are more on the
introverted side, this can be a hard pill to swallow. At the very least, you're
going to have try and fake it.
Nursing requires
an outgoing personality for the most part. There are ways to train yourself to
become a more social person. Some of these ways are especially useful in the
nursing field.
These ways will
not only help you become more sociable, but they will also contribute to your
career. The right mindset is important when doing most things. Listening and
body language are crucial to approaching people with confidence. It takes tons
of practice to become a social butterfly.
Related: Why do we have a Nursing Shortage?
1.
Mindset
If
you are going into this with a negative mindset, it is time to change it.
Figure out the reasoning for what you are doing. Why do you want to be a more
outgoing nurse?
Regardless
of what you are feeling, focus on positive thoughts and energy, and how you can
manipulate that in social interactions.. With some confidence and a little
push, you will be where you want to be in no time.
2.
Listening
By
taking the time to fully listen to what people have to say, you are taking a
step in the right direction. You should then use what you have learned to
continue the conversation. This can be through asking a question about
something they said or just making a comment about it.
3.
Body Language
It
is difficult to learn how to get your body’s language to reflect that of a
social butterfly. Holding yourself with confidence and making eye contact, not
letting yourself hold back in your emotions, and good posture are all elements
that a social butterfly will exhibit. These are the basics, at least. Figure
out how you want people to see you and do your best to exemplify that.
4.
Approach
One
of the best things that you can do is to approach people. Actually meet the
people you want to meet, instead of thinking about it. By using body language
and the right tone of voice, people will feel comfortable with you and will
listen to more of what you have to say. This goes for listening as well. Take
your time to actually get to know people on a personal level, and not just a
superficial one. People love to talk about themselves, so there will be a lot
to listen to.
5.
Practice
As
with all skills, practice makes perfect. Set goals for yourself in order to
track your progress and continue your improvement. One of these goals could be,
to approach one stranger each day, or listen consciously during a conversation
several times a day. Whatever works for you is best, of course. If you need to
talk to a mirror or have some friends help you out, there is nothing wrong with
that.
Overall,
becoming a social butterfly is not that hard. Unless of course, you are an
introvert through and through. But keep your career in mind and really consider
if it is worth staying in a bubble or to try bursting out of one. It is up to
you to make a change, and it is going to be a big one.
Related: International
Nurses Association
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