As we turn the page on 2025, now is the perfect moment to reflect, reset, and reimagine your professional journey. Whether you’re just starting out, thinking about a role change, or ready to take your skills to the next level, 2026 can be the year you step into a more fulfilling, purpose-driven career.

At Baptist Health, we know that meaning and impact matter. Here’s a practical guide to help you take intentional action toward a career that aligns with your values and goals in the new year.

1. Clarify What Matters Most to You

Before making any career move, pause to reflect. Ask yourself:

• What energizes me at work?
• What do I value in a team or organization?
• What skills or strengths do I want to use more often?

Your answers can help guide decisions around role changes, professional development, or re-entering the workforce. If serving others, teamwork, and making a difference top your list—healthcare may be your ideal fit.

2. Set Goals With Intention (Not Just Resolutions)

Career goals should be clear, specific, and connected to your broader vision. Rather than vague goals like “get promoted,” try:

• Complete a micro-credential or certification by Q2
• Apply for a patient care role with a leadership pathway
• Shadow someone in a field I’m curious about

Write them down, set reminders, and review them quarterly.

3. Invest in Learning That Aligns With Your Path

Education doesn’t have to mean a four-year commitment. Baptist Health College Little Rock (BHCLR) offers accelerated healthcare programs in nursing, radiography, surgical technology, and more. These programs are designed to get you into the workforce quickly—without sacrificing quality.

Prefer a shorter path? Consider:

• A certificate program like Patient Care Technician
• Micro-credentials in medical coding, phlebotomy, or billing
• Employer-sponsored professional development opportunities

Explore more at bhclr.edu.

4. Update Your Resume and Online Presence

Use this quieter winter season to refresh your resume, update your LinkedIn profile, and review your professional story. Highlight accomplishments from 2025, add any new certifications, and tailor your materials for the types of roles you want next.

5. Reconnect With Mentors and Expand Your Network

Reach out to mentors or former colleagues for guidance, feedback, or encouragement. You can also:

• Attend local healthcare career fairs
• Join a professional association or virtual community
• Volunteer in a healthcare setting to explore new areas of interest

At Baptist Health, mentorship and internal mobility are key to helping team members grow.

6. Explore New Roles That Align With Your Goals

As a new year begins, many departments across Baptist Health are hiring. From clinical care and administration to support services and IT, there’s a wide range of positions that offer meaningful work and room to grow.

Search current openings at BaptistHealthCareers.com.

7. Prioritize Purpose Over Perfection

Don’t wait for everything to be “just right” before making a move. Taking small, purposeful steps—whether applying for a job, enrolling in a course, or reaching out to a mentor—can spark progress and build momentum.

The most meaningful careers often begin with a single decision to act with intention.

Let 2026 Be the Year You Start With Purpose

No matter where you’re coming from or where you hope to go, the new year is a chance to grow with purpose. At Baptist Health, we believe in empowering our people to build careers that reflect their passion and commitment to others.

Ready to start strong? Explore our current openings, student pathways, and early-career programs today at BaptistHealthCareers.com.

Your purpose. Your path. Your year.