is changing job for happiness right?

[Michnurse1]

I’m a new nurse. I’ve been at my job for 6 months now. I work on a Medsurg unit and have gained a lot of experience with a variety of populations. I have had ongoing anxiety throughout my experience (before and after work). I am becoming more comfortable in my position but I’m just not sure it’s for me. My mental health is suffering. Working 12.5 hours with hardly five minutes to eat, rarely ever using the bathroom is draining. On top of that, the random scheduling kills my anxiety.

Ive been job searching and now that I’m closer to getting an outpatient job at a clinic I’m second guessing whether it’s a good choice. I want to work outpatient for the set schedule, mon-fri 9-5. I can have a life after work, see my family. Less stress. Same pay.

But will it ruin my future as nurse leaving the bedside so soon??? Yes I’ve read to stick it out for 1-2 years but at that point I’m just sacrificing my happiness and mental health. I’m not sure I’d choose a job over mental stability. I’m just not sure bedside nursing, 12 hour shifts is for me.

Plus if I hold out another 6 months-1.5 years will I even come across the same opportunity. A clinic without taking a pay cut.

Has anyone left the bedside and regretted it?

[jobellestarr]

You can always return to the bedside. Do what is best for you and that will make you a better nurse. There is no need to suffer or feel guilty. Life is short.

[Sour Lemon]

Will it ruin your future? What are you hoping your future will be?

It’s hard to decide on a path unless you know where you’re going.

And what does “getting closer” mean? Do you have an actual offer?

[Persephone Paige, ADN]

1 hour ago, jobellestarr said:

You can always return to the bedside. Do what is best for you and that will make you a better nurse. There is no need to suffer or feel guilty. Life is short.

^ This... I just returned to the beside after a 20+ years absence. And, very little beside experience before I left the bedside 20+ years ago.

It's a mindset. If you want to, you can return someday. And somewhere, someone will take a chance on you. I took 8-5, Mon-Fri when I was raising my kids.

It all works out, remember that.

Good luck!

[Michnurse1]

21 minutes ago, Sour Lemon said:

Will it ruin your future? What are you hoping your future will be?

It’s hard to decide on a path unless you know where you’re going.

And what does “getting closer” mean? Do you have an actual offer?

I’m not sure what I want to do in the future to be honest, I just want to find a job I’m happy with at this point.

I haven’t gotten an offer yet, no but I like to think ahead because I tear myself up when it comes to big decisions. I’m in the second phase of in the interview process, last is to be offered the job. Feeling hopeful.