Graduation day is in sight for many nursing students. And whether you’re saying farewell to nursing school this month or in May, your first year as a real, actual, honest-to-goodness nurse is fast approaching. Your first 12-hour shift. Your first real patient. Your first day without your preceptor. Your first run-in with your manager. Your first, well, pretty much everything. And to help you out, this week, we’re going to dip into one of the books in the Stressed Out series to give you some advice.

Stressed Out About Your First Year of Nursing was written by Patricia Duclos-Miller and its practical, simple advice has already helped thousands of new nurses get their feet on the ground. Here’s a glimpse of what’s inside:

One of the most important conflict-resolution skills is assertiveness. Do not confuse assertive behavior with aggressive behavior, which does not allow others to express themselves. Those who are assertive communicate in a direct and honest way and do not violate the other person’s rights.

You will need to develop assertive communication skills so that when confronted by an “aggressor” you will be able to handle the situation as a professional. You know you are dealing with an aggressive personality when that person crosses the line and denies the rights of others.

The key to being an assertive nurse is to be direct, clear, non-threatening, and non-attacking. Remember these tips when cultivating your own assertiveness skills:

1. You build confidence by believing in yourself. Think “I can handle anger,” “I can deal with conflict,” “I can deal with stress,” and “I am confident.” Repeat, rehearse, and visualize.

2. You must develop your communication skills through both verbal and nonverbal methods. Be mindful of your tone, volume, stance, etc.

3. You need to be prepared mentally and factually when dealing with others.

4. Saying “no” is a skill that you need to practice so that you do not cave in. It’s okay to set limits and say no.

5. Handling disagreements involves allowing others to feel the way they do about an issue. Try using the “let’s agree to disagree” approach. Everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion and it’s okay if both of you do not reach an agreement. As long as you are both showing respect, your opinions do not need to match.

Editor’s note: This excerpt was adapted from Stressed Out About Your First Year of Nursing. For more information on this book or to order your copy today, click on the book cover on the left side of the page. It’s the purple one.