October brings a natural shift in perspective. As the fall emerges and the pace of the season slows, we are reminded that growth does not always come from doing more. Sometimes, growth comes from stepping back, reflecting, and allowing ourselves the space to recharge.
As nurses and nurse leaders, we dedicate ourselves to serving others. We guide patients, families, and teams through challenges, advocate for our profession, and work tirelessly to improve outcomes for those we serve. Yet in the midst of our responsibilities, it can be easy to overlook one essential practice: self-care.
Taking a pause is not a sign of slowing down. It is a strategic investment in our well-being and effectiveness. Intentional moments of pause help us regain clarity, strengthen resilience, and return to our work with renewed purpose. Whether it is spending time with loved ones, enjoying the beauty of the season, engaging in personal reflection, or simply creating space to breathe, these moments matter.
This month, we are embracing that philosophy as an organization. In the spirit of self-care and renewal, Nurses on Boards Coalition (NOBC) will be taking an intentional “pause” of our monthly newsletter for October and returning in November. We believe that taking time to rest, reflect, and refocus is just as important for organizations as it is for individuals. While you won’t see our traditional monthly update this month, we encourage you to use this time to reconnect with your personal and professional goals, celebrate your accomplishments, and invest in your own well-being.
As we take this intentional pause, we also encourage you to think about your continued professional growth through the opportunities below from our amazing partners at NOBC.
Invest in Your Leadership Journey
We are thrilled to share with you the opportunity to apply for Cohort 7 of the Shaughnessy Coldiron Senior Nurse Executive Fellowship at the Marian K. Shaughnessy Nurse Leadership Academy.
This distinguished fellowship offers senior nurse leaders the opportunity to deepen their leadership expertise while joining a community of peers committed to advancing nursing and healthcare leadership.
Why Consider The Fellowship?
- Enhance Leadership Skills
- Network with Peers
- Transform Healthcare
For more information, visit the Fellowship website.
Help Build the Next Generation of Global Nurse Leaders
We also encourage you to learn more about the Association for Leadership Science in Nursing Ambassador Program and help recruit the 2027 cohort of ALSN International Ambassadors.
The program connects nurse leaders from around the world to share knowledge, foster collaboration, and advance nursing leadership science. Selected ambassadors receive a complimentary one-year ALSN membership and participate in a global network of leaders committed to advancing the profession.
Application Deadline: November 8, 2026, at 11:59 PM
As the season reminds us, not every step forward requires constant motion. Sometimes the most meaningful progress comes when we pause, reflect, and prepare for what lies ahead. This October, I encourage you to embrace the power of the “pause” and make time for the self-care that sustains both you, your leadership and your well-being.
Warm regards,
Dr. Cole Edmonson, DNP, RN, FAAN
CEO Nurses on Boards Coalition
