To celebrate the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife, we asked a selection of staff who exemplify the key qualities of a nurse/midwife to write a ‘postcard to their younger self’ and offer insight and advice.

Gavin Fahey, Respiratory Clinical Nurse Consultant and Team Leader, had this to say to his younger self:

Stay positive, you’re not meant to know everything, so enjoy the learning along the way. Don’t concern yourself with what other people think about you and your opinion does matter.

These are the things I would tell my younger self, but also now tell my own children. Continue to focus on the things you enjoy – a sense of adventure, travel, remain optimistic and work hard to achieve your goals. 

You may be a little unsure about a future career but nursing is a great option for many reasons; it’s very practical and can be applied in all walks of life.  

Nursing can increase confidence and social skills and it’s pretty difficult to automate so nurses will always be needed! 

There are also many options these days; specialising within departments and roles, management, project management – just to name a few.

And it’s fine to move between roles until you find your niche. Remember that a rewarding role is one in which there is a balance between your knowledge/input having a positive impact and ongoing learning.