Anxiety on switching careers

Nurses General Nursing

Published

Hi

I have just recently started to get anxiety about this major career change. I will be starting the RN program in August. I have been with my current employer for 18 1/2 years. They have agreed to let me go part time while in school. I am 51 and have just spent the last 4 years working on the pre-reqs. My anxiety is mostly from giving up 1/2 my pay for two years and the "what ifs". Did any of you that have switched careers late in life go through the same anxiety? Up until the last few days I was gung ho and then it hit me. I do get some negative comments, "you are going to give up your vacation, 401K etc.". ....plus I've read a few negative comments on this site. So, I would like some opinions from some of you that have already finished and started your new career as a nurse.

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Specializes in Freelance Writer, 'the nurse who knows content'.

I haven't finished yet, so I'm not exactly the person you're looking for reassurance from, but I will tell you this: you have to be willing to take risks if you want to accomplish important things in life, whether it's a career change, having children, writing a novel, or anything else.

I can understand your anxiety because I share it. Leaving anything behind, especially a long career, is a daunting feeling.

But remember that the people who are reminding you about how much you'll be giving up aren't being supportive. They're choosing to focus on just one side of the story: the LOSS side. The truth is, you'll be gaining an awful lot, too. You need to connect with some supportive friends who will reassure you and be there for you when times get tough -- people who will help you focus on where you're going, not where you've been.

You'll be fine. You may suffer some hardships, but stay focused on your goal. It will be worth it.

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

Just think about what you will gain in the long run. You may have to give up a little for a short time...but the benefits in the long run should be much better. I do not know how much money you make now, but, I do know my salary will more than double by the time I am done. I will be done in Aug.

I was nervous too. Still am at times. Sometimes I wonder how I am going to be able to grocery shop that week, but I do it. I agree with semisweetchick...those people are not being supportive of you...actually they sound a little jealous of the fact that you are doing something else with your life..perhaps they themselves want to change careers but do not have the guts to do it. It is hard do not get me wrong, but I love it and would not trade it for anything in the world. Good Luck!!

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Specializes in Peds stepdown ICU.

Personally, if I had it to do all over again I wouldn't go into nursing. The stress is high and we often work short staffed. This is the only career I have known. I have been thinking of doing something different too--outside of the nursing world....and I would be nervous like you making a career change. If you feel nursing is your calling, by all means go for it! It is normal to feel nervous--you are making a big change. Best wishes to you! I hope you find nursing to be all that you thought it would be :)

Missy

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Thank you for reminding me not to focus on the loss. Your reply was precisely what I needed to hear.

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Thank you for your reply. Most the time I feel like it is my calling. I have this huge desire to learn more about the body and illnesses and to be able to help people. I have been an EMT for a few years and actually worked part time for a rural ambulance service. It was sometimes exhausting and humbling but I really enjoyed learning (sometimes from my mistakes).

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