Experienced RN in search of greener pastures

[Genista, BSN, RN]

Hi all. Looking for some insight here. I am an experienced RN with 13 years acute care experience. Recently took a job in telephone triage, my 1st job outside of a hospital setting, which I enjoy...but not sure if it's the best match for my personality or if I just need to give it more time. I have been at the new job less than a year. I love so much about my current job, it's really a great job, but I still keep looking for an even better fit. I keep looking at other jobs, and keep wondering if there is some other area which would fit me better. I recently saw a clinic case manager job, and part of me wonders if that could be my "dream job." Part of me wonders also if this is crazy talk, and I just have the "grass is always greener," syndrome, where I am idealizing other jobs. Part of me also wonders if I am missing out on a nursing role that I actually enjoy and am passionate about.

I do like my current job, a lot more than hospital nursing, but to be honest it is a challenge for me and meeting the call volumes is stressful...and I can't say I want to do it forever. I often wonder if I should be looking elsewhere or to to give it more time since I have been less that a year in my new role. Part of me wants to explore the CM job...and if they show interest in interviewing me, asking for a job shadow to see what the role is really like. Maybe I am crazy. My current job is excellent in terms of pay/benefits/hours. But I keep dreaming of "a better fit." CM seems like more autonomy, but I also wonder if the stress levels are through the roof. All nursing jobs have stress, but I just don't want to make a move I would regret. It's a big decision, as I am the primary breadwinner. Hmmm. Any feedback appreciated! Anyone else in a similar career dilemma? Should I sit tight and give myself more time in my new job? What to do, what to do. I guess I am still looking for my niche. Thanks in advance for your thoughts on this.

[cara vander wiel]

I know what you mean about feeling restless. Let's face it, a job is always going to have its frustrations. I think that you want to make a move, but you are second guessing yourself. First, don't leave a job until you have another job lined up. Talk to case managers on this site and get their input as to what the job entails. Make a list of what you like about your job and what you don't like about it. Do you need a challenge? Do you need more salary? It can never hurt to apply for a job and go in for an interview. You don't have to take a job once offered. No nursing job is "easy". That's unrealistic. But if you need to challenge yourself, then go for it! You have a lot to offer. Have you thought about management?

[Genista, BSN, RN]

Thanks for the perspective, Cara Vander Wiel. I'm not really planning to leave my current job. It's really a great job,with a lot of great things going for it. I just keep finding myself wanting something even "better"...crazy as it seems. I keep looking around, wondering if my "dream job," is out there somewhere. I would love to do something along lines of education/public health. Maybe I need to go back for my MPH or some such. I am probably going to stay put for now, as my current job pays great, has great benefits, and the schedule works very well for my family. But I just wonder why I feel so restless, and wonder if it is unrealistic to hope for a "dream job." I guess it can't hurt to interview if I stumble upon something really interesting, like you said. Thanks for the suggestions & food for thought.