Don't be afraid of starting over: 3 benefits and 3 strategies for International Nurses

Don’t let the fear of starting over hold you back: embrace the opportunity to begin again. If you've ever felt intimidated by the prospect of a fresh start, this is for you!

Dear Friend,

The thought of starting over is something that many of us dread: moving to a new country, starting a new job, or enrolling in a new training program can be intimidating.?

The fear of starting over is real, and I understand it deeply because I have experienced it myself. Someone recently threatened to destroy my social media presence and business.?

This meant having to start over again!?

For a moment, I was gripped by fear and anxiety. However, after reflecting, I realized that I am not afraid of starting over since I have done it multiple times before: I moved abroad and started a new life in another country, I changed jobs and roles multiple times, so why should I be afraid to start over once again?!

In facing our fears and growing through these challenging moments, this experience reminded me of the importance of facing our fears, which is why I dedicated this edition of "International nursing career" to this important and most common topic!

In my upcoming book, The Awakened Expat Nurse, I discuss strategies for succeeding abroad? as an international nurse, but I also discuss feelings and how to deal with them. The anxiety that often accompanies starting over is one of the emotions I address. A key to overcoming these feelings is understanding the difference between fear and anxiety.

Fear vs. Anxiety: What’s the Difference?

Fear is an immediate response to a perceived threat, a natural reaction that can protect us from danger, sometimes a life-threatening threat.

On the other hand, anxiety involves visualizing a future scenario that doesn't exist at the moment: worrying about future events or situations that may or may not occur.

Hence, when it comes to starting over, it’s often anxiety that holds us back, not fear! We imagine all the things that could go wrong, and this anticipation can paralyze us.

Unfortunately, your body cannot distinguish the difference, so the physical reaction is the same; but the good news is that you can control anxiety with your mind!

Despite the feeling associated with it, the fact that we’re starting over is always a good thing, regardless of whether we were forced or decided to do so.

Here are three benefits of starting over that can shift your perspective:

1. New Opportunities for Growth. A fresh start allows you to create something even better. It's an opportunity to apply everything you've learned and grow personally and professionally. Like a new Perspective. Starting over allows you to look at your situation with a fresh perspective. This can help you identify solutions that may not have been clear before. Additionally, starting over can give you the opportunity to develop new skills and gain new experiences.
2. Increased Resilience. Every time you start over, you strengthen your resilience. Making you more confident in your abilities comes from showing yourself that you are able to cope with change and adapt to new circumstances. This can help you to develop better problem-solving skills and become more resourceful.
3. Rediscovery of Passion. It is possible to reconnect with your passions when you make a fresh start. It is easy to lose sight of what drives us when we get caught up in the routine of life. There is something rejuvenating about starting over. Taking a step back and reflecting on what makes you feel energized can help to rekindle your passions. This can help you to stay motivated and focused on your goals.

However, recognizing this anxiety and working through it can help us move forward.?

Here three strategies to overcome anxiety when starting over

1. Break It Down. Take small, manageable steps rather than trying to complete the entire journey at once. As a result, you'll feel less overwhelmed and be able to make steady progress. Celebrate Your Wins. Make sure to take the time to recognize and appreciate the progress you've made. This will help you stay motivated and on track.
2. Practice Mindfulness. Focus on being present and grounded. You can manage anxiety by bringing your attention back to the present moment rather than worrying about the future by practicing mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation. As you slow down your breathing, you reduce the production of catecholamines that cause anxiety. When I feel overwhelmed, I use the box breathing technique to calm down. It's very simple, but also very effective:?
3. Journaling. Keeping a journal can boost self-awareness as it enables you to express feelings and thoughts, which can lead to an understanding of your own patterns and behavior. A journal serves as a stress-relief tool, allowing you to express frustration and process difficult experiences in a safe environment. It allows you to take them out of your mind and out of your chest, whether or not you wish to share them with somebody else.

Starting over, whether in a new country, a new role, or a new chapter of life, can feel intimidating, but it’s also a powerful act of courage!?

Each time you take that leap into the unknown, you’re not just starting over, you’re reinventing yourself!?

You’re embracing the opportunity to grow into the best version of who you are meant to be!?

Every fresh start is a chance to chase your dreams with renewed energy and purpose, and to build a life that brings you greater fulfillment and joy.

Remember, you are stronger than you think. Every experience you’ve had so far has prepared you for this moment. The discomfort of change is temporary, but the rewards of personal growth and professional success are lasting. Don’t let fear or anxiety stop you from taking that first step toward the future you deserve. Trust in yourself, believe in your resilience, and know that starting over is not a setback: it's a powerful step forward!

You have the power to create a life that aligns with your passions, values, and career aspirations. So take that step, embrace the journey, and know that with every new beginning, you’re becoming the person you were always meant to be. The best is yet to come.

Starting over isn’t just about leaving something behind; it’s about stepping into something greater. Each new beginning is an opportunity to redefine yourself, to grow, and to pursue the life and career you’ve always dreamed of. It’s a chance to break free from the limitations of the past and to embrace the possibilities of the future with open arms.

Remember, the discomfort you feel when starting anew is the precursor to profound growth. It’s a sign that you’re pushing beyond your comfort zone, moving closer to the person you’re meant to become. Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back, use it as fuel to propel you forward!

Every challenge you face will shape you into a stronger, wiser, and more resilient version of yourself!

So, take that leap of faith. Whether it’s moving to a new country, starting a new job, or pursuing further training, know that you’re not just starting over, you’re starting better. You have the strength, the skills, and the courage to create a life and career that brings you fulfillment and joy. The path to your most fulfilled life is waiting for you, and it all begins with that first courageous step.

Starting over is never easy, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to grow, learn, and create a life that truly aligns with your passions and values. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, I’ve been there too, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Just let me know if you need my support!

You’ve got this!

Join the conversation: What's your biggest fear about starting over, and how have you, or how do you plan to overcome it?

My hope is that you enjoy this edition of "International Nursing Career". It arrived a little late today, since I just returned from annual leave, but it was the product of recent self reflections.

Thank you for reading it!

My warmest regards,

Dina Paoloni, BSN, RN, PG, CC,

Career Coach for International Nurses, Clinical Trial Nurse

PS: Join the waiting list to read my book about international nursing ?? click here