Just out of curiosity.....how long after leaving nursing did you keep your license active?
I'm asking because it's almost time to renew mine, and though I've been out of nursing for almost a year, I want to leave the door cracked just in case a job I can handle comes up. I plan to renew my license this time, and then see what happens in the next couple of years before deciding whether or not to give it up.
I'm 55 and don't see myself ever going back to the floor or management. {{{shivers}}} But I can imagine doing something like telephonic or advice nursing, which is probably nice work if you can get it. (I've applied for Social Security Disability but I want to work at least a few hours a week if possible.)
The other thing is, I've heard that some states allow a nurse to hold a "retired" or "inactive" status by paying a fee to the BON. What would be the advantages of that as opposed to allowing your license to lapse? Inquiring minds want to know!