Can "leaders" be happy NOT leading?

Editorial Team / Admin · Jul 29, 2015

I used to be the OR charge nurse for a time. I've found that I'm much happier as a circulator, even though most of the surgeons I worked with liked it when I was in charge.

It is possible to be a leader without being in management- and in fact, while the terms are frequently used interchangeably they aren't necessarily the same. I lead better now by acting as a preceptor for new hires.

peabozzle · Jul 30, 2015

It is possible to be a leader without being in management- and in fact, while the terms are frequently used interchangeably they aren't necessarily the same.

I couldn't agree more! My current manager isn't much of a leader, frankly. Plus I really have no desire to "move up" in management.....that seems like more stress than I am interested in.

Thanks for your input!

AJJKRN · Jul 30, 2015

I happen to think that the best leaders can either lead or follow. Being interchangeable to best suit the needs of the situation or patient/peer interaction can increase positive outcomes for everyone involved, even if someone's ego takes a hit at the time. I pride myself on knowing when to pick my battles and when to stand down at times when it's in the best interests for my patients. Sounds like you're the type to be able to do so too.

Tex. · Jul 30, 2015

Sounds like you already know what the answer is...follow your heart! You can always go back to being "the boss" if it does prove to be too physically demanding or not satisfying.

*edited for spelling

llg, PhD, RN · Jul 30, 2015

I have known lots of people (including myself) who have "moved down the ladder" and been quite happy. Sometimes, we actually need to step away from the burden of leadership responsibility to stay sane. You can use the breathing room to foster your enjoyment of other satisfying aspects of work and things outside of work.

Conqueror+, BSN, RN · Jul 30, 2015

I am a born leader and I am currently enjoying a job that has me working with exactly ONE other person for my entire shift. I may feel differently in a few years but it is a nice break from being on roller skates all day. I loved my management jobs but my mind and body need a break.

SubSippi · Jul 30, 2015

If you're resume is impressive enough to where people are offering you positions that you haven't even applied for, I bet that you wouldn't have any issues finding another job in a leadership position if you realize that you're not happy with your new job.

SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 30, 2015

If you're resume is impressive enough to where people are offering you positions that you haven't even applied for, I bet that you wouldn't have any issues finding another job in a leadership position......

OP: The above is very true! I know several former nurse managers who were offered management roles without applying. In fact, one or two were applying for a non-management role and were asked during interviews to consider the vacant management positions based upon their reputations and resumes. Others were sought out while working as non-managers by other departments when something opened up because of their former reputations as nurse managers.

This is why I currently eat, breath, and sleep my current management position and do everything in my power to emulate (and be mentored by) the good ones. :) Reputation and resumes are so powerful!! Good luck! :)

SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 30, 2015

What say you all? Can a "leader" be happy NOT leading?

My personal answer to your question is, no! If my brain at work is not involved in the big picture, I am not happy. However, as others have pointed out, one can be a leader without being in charge or without receiving an official title. In fact, my entire career up until now (since this is my first official management position) is made up of leadership. I have lead in many environments through committees, assisting the nurse leaders in charge, through club memberships, etc.... so, being a Staff RN "worker-bee" , does not preclude you from leadership duties and responsibilities of your unit; it just gives you the work-life balance as you have noted, where you can go home and leave work behind at the end of your shifts.

Whereas I am happy for the opportunity to show up on a day off to learn and grow in my new role through either additional training or through an experience (for example, meeting with a direct report regarding conduct). Everything I am required to do and I am asked to do has stress associated with it, but I happily see them as growth opportunities rather than obligations; I know... I am cut from a different cloth and am in no way judging you or others who see the world differently. In fact, I agree with the others that you should do what you think is best for you and your state of mind/well being. Good luck. :)

noahsmama · Jul 31, 2015

I agree with the other poster who said that you likely already know the answer to this! Sounds like you're happier in your part time non-management job right now. And although I'm sure your husband knows you well, you know yourself even better. His statements may say more about his own preferences than yours. If I had listened to everything anyone who knew me told me about myself, I wouldn't even be a nurse right now, and as far as I'm concerned, becoming one was one of the best decisions I ever made in my life!

However, the issue of having to move 4 hours away is something you'll need to work out with your husband. Is he ok with the move, or is that perhaps why he's raining on your parade? Do you have to move 4 hours away, or can you perhaps get a better job in your current area? Given that you're being offered these jobs without even seeking them out, you could probably find even more options if you were actually looking.

Good luck with whatever you decide!