To remain competent in practice, as the demands of that practice change, and to take advantage of new roles and opportunities in nursing, three behaviors are required on the part of the nurse: ability to evaluate one's own knowledge and skills for practice, an awareness of resources available for development of new competencies for practice, and a willingness to engage in this self-assessment. This article explores these behaviors essential for the professional development of the nurse and includes specific strategies for assessing one's own learning needs and meeting them.