Sharpen Your Skills, Strengthen Your Self: The Holistic Value of Continuing Professional Development

I recently returned from an educational conference in Philadelphia, where I attended learning sessions and lectures, networked with old and new colleagues, and had a chance to walk around an interesting city. I especially enjoyed the warm spring weather and tulip trees in bloom knowing it was cold and snowing again at home. For over 20 years, I have participated in national and state conferences several times a year, while presenting one or more research papers or posters. I’ve been a co-presenter with Jennifer for many of those, to demo the GSS app and share our study outcomes.

For the first time in years, I simply attended this national conference as a non-presenter. It was rather luxurious and left me feeling a little guilty. But not too much. I have to say, I did not miss lugging a poster tube through airports or obsessing about losing my flash drive and presenter materials. I am very good at catastrophizing when traveling. It was enough of a challenge going solo to get through the airports with some flight delays, figure out the train connection, locate my hotel, and scope out the route to the convention center. Once settled in, checked in with name badge and complementary tote bag, I could focus on sampling sessions of interest, chatting with researchers at their posters, and snagging some candy at the Expo Hall.

On the flight home, I reflected on how being just a learner allowed me to relax and enjoy myself, which I think translated into learning more. Research supports what managers and organizational leaders already know: the value of continuing professional development in improving practice and client outcomes, adherence to best practices, and overall knowledge, skills and attitude. But did you know that traveling for work training can improve our problem-solving skills and adaptability as we navigate unfamiliar environments? That’s a two-fer on ROI!

Of course, at GSS we understand the first step to successful professional development is self-assessment and goal-setting, followed by choosing reputable training sources, and seeking guidance and ongoing support to ensure the continuing education matches your needs and skill level.

So, be intentional in planning your next professional training trip. Think not only of the content and expertise of the trainers, but also how to challenge your adventurous side. When you’re not in sessions, find local markets and places and meet new people. Enjoy the change in scenery and the change in your daily routines. You will be rewarded with a renewed sense of purpose and direction when you return to work.

Forsetlund L, O’Brien MA, Forsén L, Reinar LM, Okwen MP, Horsley T, Rose CJ. Continuing education meetings and workshops: effects on professional practice and healthcare outcomes. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2021 Sep 15;9(9):CD003030. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003030.pub3. PMID: 34523128; PMCID: PMC8441047.

Mlambo, M., Silén, C. & McGrath, C. Lifelong learning and nurses’ continuing professional development, a metasynthesis of the literature. BMC Nurs 20, 62 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-021-00579-2