I'm lost and stuck in deciding my career-help!

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

It sounds like you're facing a significant crossroads in your career journey, and it's perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed when deciding between paths.

If you go into clinical practice, you can always teach. However, if you go into teaching, you will not have the opportunity to practice clinically.

Here are some steps you might consider to help clarify your feelings and aspirations.

Self-Reflection. Take some time to reflect on your experiences and feelings about both fields. What aspects of teaching do you enjoy or dislike? Similarly, think about the medical roles that appeal to you—what draws you to being a midwife, L&D nurse, or pediatrician? Consider keeping a journal to track your thoughts, feelings, and any recurring themes you notice.

Explore both fields. Since you're already in college for early childhood education, immerse yourself in that world. Gain experience by volunteering or taking part-time work in educational settings. At the same time, explore the medical field. Look for volunteer opportunities at hospitals, clinics, or health programs. This dual exposure could provide insight into what feels more aligned with your passions.

Informational interviews. Reach out to professionals in both fields. Conduct informational interviews with teachers, midwives, L&D nurses, and pediatricians. Ask them about their daily experiences, the challenges they face, and what they find rewarding. This direct insight can help you gauge what aligns best with your interests and values.

Consider further education. If you find that the medical field resonates with you, research the educational pathways for becoming a midwife, nurse, or pediatrician. Understanding the requirements, time commitments, and potential career trajectories can help you make an informed decision.

Talk to a career counselor. Many colleges offer career counseling services. A counselor can provide assessments to help identify your strengths and preferences, which can be incredibly valuable in clarifying your direction.

Embrace flexibility. Remember that it's okay to start in one field and transition later. Many people find their calling through experiences and opportunities rather than a straight path. If you pursue your certificate in early childhood education, you may find aspects of teaching you love or discover that you want to pivot back to a medical career.

Set short-term goals. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the big picture, break your decision-making into smaller, manageable steps. Set goals for the next semester or year that allow you to explore both fields without the pressure of committing to one long-term immediately, such as pursuing general ED courses.

Focus on your values. Think about what values are most important to you in a career. Is it helping others, making a difference, or working collaboratively? Understanding your core values can help steer you toward a career that feels fulfilling.

Stay mindful of your well-being. Stress and pressure can cloud decision-making. Practice mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to help manage anxiety. Engaging in activities you enjoy outside of work and school can also help clear your mind.

Trust your instincts. Ultimately, trust your gut. Sometimes, your intuition can guide you better than any rational analysis. As you explore and gain experiences, pay attention to what excites you and feels right.

It's a journey of self-discovery, and it's completely okay to take the time you need to figure it out. Each step you take will provide more clarity and help you move closer to a fulfilling career that resonates with you.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth