Still Trying to Find My Niche

[tli3]

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to share my situation on this site so that I can get some advice. I got my RN license in July 2013, found a job in 2014 and have been working as a nurse since then. I started out in adult psych since that was the only place that would hire me. Stayed there for about 9 months and got a new job at another hospital in geri-psych. I figured I would gain more experience medically in geri-psych, which I did. I worked there for one year and then changed to per diem once I found a new job on a med surg floor. Since nursing school, I always thought I should have experience in med surg so that was why I decided to take this job. Although I had a feeling I would like it.

I was on orientation for about 10 weeks. The first few weeks were okay, but as time went on I realized bedside nursing just wasn't for me. I became overwhelmed and anxious all the time. I couldn't enjoy my days off because I would be thinking about the next time I had to work. I began dreading going into work and became unhappy.

So 2 weeks before I was supposed to come off orientation, I decided to resign instead. I didn't see the point of staying any longer, since I was still on orientation, if I had no intention of staying. I know it seems stupid to leave without having another full time job lined up, but I just couldn't imagine going back for another shift. I have money saved up from my previous jobs and am currently looking for a new one. This time I'm not applying for any bedside nursing positions as I know now that is not what I want to do. I would rather work ambulatory settings, such as doctor's office or clinics because I think I would be much more comfortable in those settings. My plan is to go back to school next year to get my masters in FNP.

I just didn't think I would be struggling this much to find my niche in nursing. Sometimes I wonder if I chose the right career for myself. I know my family will probably be disappointed but I did what I felt was the right decision for me because I just wasn't happy. Has anyone else been in the same situation? Any advice?