My Core Values
The core values I have outlined below have been shaped by my roles and experiences throughout my life. I have come to understand these values as integral to personal growth, self-improvement, and self-awareness, as well as their positive impact on others. As a future RN, I aim to improve patient health outcomes by equipping my those patients with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to build their confidence and self-efficacy. Additionally, these values have played a significant role in my mental and psychological growth, advanced my education, and strengthened my confidence, ultimately helping to solidify my identity. These core values—empowerment, accountability, advocacy, and resilience—form the foundation of my practice. As a nurse, I will strive to become a leader who embodies these values, fostering both personal growth and the well-being of my patients.
Empowerment
Empowerment is gaining autonomy, self-determination, and confidence to take control of one’s life and claim one’s rights. It involves overcoming powerlessness, recognizing resources, and fostering resilience. This value has shaped my life through perseverance during hardships and difficulties through personal growth involving skill development, continued education, overcoming mental resistance, and participating in unique experiences. Through my actions, I empowered myself and began noticing that I empowered others through my influence. Leadership is integral to empowerment, as influential leaders inspire growth and self-efficacy by exemplifying the process of progress and change and providing guidance to overcome obstacles. As a nurse, I strive to empower others—especially women, girls, and patients—by providing knowledge and support to build confidence, independence, and the ability to make informed decisions that improve their lives and communities.
Accountability
Accountability is the commitment to taking responsibility for one’s actions, decisions, and outcomes, fostering trust and integrity. Accountability requires self-awareness, transparency, and the ability to reflect and learn from mistakes. Leadership plays a crucial role in embodying this value, as accountable leaders inspire others by modelling ethical behaviour and taking ownership of challenges. As a nurse, I will uphold the value of accountability by delivering high standards of care, making evidence-based decisions, acknowledging my mistakes, and being receptive to constructive feedback.
Advocacy
Advocacy is the act of championing the rights, needs, and well-being of others. As a health advocate, I stand up for individuals and communities to address inequities and work to remove barriers to health and wellness. Advocacy requires courage, compassion, and a commitment to ethical principles. As a nurse, I will advocate for my patients by ensuring their voices are heard, their rights are respected, and they receive equitable care. Through leadership, I aim to advocate for systemic changes that promote holistic health and dignity through education and resource availability, including empowering the ‘spirit’ by encouraging self-efficacy and ownership over one’s life.
Commitment
Commitment is the unwavering dedication to providing exceptional care, fostering trust, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism in nursing. It encompasses a steadfast responsibility to patients, colleagues, and the broader healthcare system. A committed nurse prioritizes patient well-being, continually seeks to improve knowledge and skills, and upholds ethical principles even in challenging circumstances. Commitment also involves advocating for patient rights, embracing lifelong learning, and striving to positively impact healthcare outcomes. As a core value, commitment reflects the heart of nursing—compassionate, reliable, and enduring care for all.