Did you really want to be a nurse?

Magsulfate, BSN, RN · Mar 3, 2016

Yes.

I went ahead and stuck with it because I knew I'd need a way to raise my kids independently. After about 6 months working as a nurse, everything just feel into place. I really started enjoying being a nurse.

There's so much I love about my career. Think about what else you could do for a living. Is there anything else that is as flexible as nursing? You could go anywhere, work 3 days a week. .. and have the $$ to raise your child, make a good life.

I guess it all depends on you, but personally it was the best career choice I could've made and I'm so happy I did. Good luck to you. ::)

JustMeRN · Mar 3, 2016

I sort of fell into a nursing program when I couldn't figure out what to do with my life. I never felt a calling or a passion, just a need for a challenging, rewarding career that I could support myself with. I was a good student but struggled to get "it" until my 3rd semester (2 year program). 16 years later and I don't regret it. I still don't feel like it's a higher calling like some people do. I burned out of bedside nursing after 5 years of full time and 6 years of part time. I tried outpatient and now home health. I'm currently finishing my BSN and have my eyes on a non clinical position with the agency in a few years.

I honestly think the push to feel passionate or feel a calling is overrated. I think if you need a career that can support you, and know the work is difficult and stressful, but rewarding then you probably know what you are getting into. Also remember, after you have a couple of years experience the options for jobs expands considerably, it's not all bedside / hospital / LTC. There are tons of other options. Good luck!

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Mar 3, 2016

Nursing was never a childhood dream, higher calling, or burning passion for me. I pursued a nursing career for the steady income, flexibility in scheduling, career mobility, and opportunities for educational progression.

So far the income's been steady, my schedule is flexible, I've progressed my nursing education, and the career mobility is there.

Palliative Care, DNP · Mar 3, 2016

No I originally wanted to be a Dental Hygienist. I was wait listed for that program and didn't want to wait. I looked at the course work I had and asked what can I do with this? So I applied to the nursing program.

luvsltcrn · Mar 3, 2016

I was married with 2 young kids and knew my marriage would not last too much longer. I knew that I needed a career that would allow me to raise my kids on my own and give them a decent life. I chose nursing and sure enough a few years after graduating ended up divorced. I was able to comfortably raise my 2 kids on my own until I met husband number 2.

So even though it was never a passion or dream to become a nurse I have thoroughly enjoyed my career and can't imagine doing anything else. Good Luck in whatever you decide to do!!

OscarTheOwl · Mar 3, 2016

I've never had a passion about nursing. Same as others here, I saw a career that I could begin working in a few short years that offered decent pay with benefits.

You don't have to love it, I don't. I don't know many people who wake up each day eager to go to work. For me its a means to an end.

ljaquez · Mar 3, 2016

Thank you all so much. I needed that reminder. It is about independence and flexibility. Thank you. I appreciate hearing from experience because I am in the thick of it and couldn't see through to the end.