Prophetic dream r/t career decisions

[Mary Dover]

Had a dream last night that I'm sure is a manifestation of my recent career quandry.

I dreamed that I was one of several nurses on a bus (maybe the allnurses bus?). Don't know where we were going or why we were all on the bus together. We happened upon an accident along the road. Bodies everywhere. The bus stopped, and we all proceeded to get off to see what we could do to help. There were several other people already on the scene helping. One of them took a look at me as I was getting off the bus and said, "psych, right?". I nodded my head yes (cause of my previous 12 years psych experience) and she directed me over to the side of the road to a little girl, obviously unhurt, who I suppose just needed 'emotional' support.

That's all I really remember about the dream. But I know it is directly related to my recent inner turmoil about where I'm headed in my career. I left psych nursing in May, have been working for a managed care company since then. The job is just NOT me. But having worked in psych for so long, I don't feel I'm very marketable in anything else. So I've decided to take an RN refresher course. I'm downright scared to consider anything medical without it.

I wish I could explain this feeling without the risk of offending anyone i.e. people who specialize in psych, managed care, etc. I don't know what it is I'm searching for in my professional life anymore. I don't recall ever having been in this kind of slump before since I've been a nurse.

I don't know why I'm posting this. Perhaps for feedback from others who may have felt the same thing in the past, and input about what you did to get out of it (the slump that is).

[hoolahan, ASN, RN]

I am feeling the same way Mary!! (Missed you lately!! :kiss :kiss)

I think it is b/c as a newer mom, I needed to worry about finding a job that fit the family's needs, hubby's needs, and my needs/wants have always come last.

Now I am at a point in my life, where I can really think about what is it that I really want?? And to tell the truth I don't know. I think I am finding my solution, but a dream like yours wouod surely help me a great deal!!!

It would seem you are being guided back to where your gifts truly lie...psych.

Best wishes to you in your journey.

[RNFROG3, BSN, RN]

Mary,

Wow - 12 years in one type of nursing and now trying something new. BRAVO!!! I think you are doing the smart thing by taking a refresher course. I also think that a certain amount of turmoil would be expected and embraced. After all you are experiencing a change in career options isn't that on the top of the list of stressors. I don't think your dream is an indication that you should stay in psych. It's just that's where your comfort level is. When you start in a new position remind folks you are green ask questions , be inquisitive, keep your eyes open, and use the wonderful psych skills you already have, they will be a big benefit wherever you go( sometimes just dealing with your co-workers).

Most of alll GOODLUCK!!

[Mary Dover]

Hey Hoolio, lol. You are right about doing things sometimes to meet the needs of the family. That's why I took my current (managed care) job. It fit perfectly with my family's needs. But I HATE it so bad, I've dropped back to part time. I think that'll help me pursue other things now.

RNFrog3 - thank you so much for reminding me how important it is to step outside our comfort zone from time to time. This 'slump' has practically immobilized me - and that is not me at all.

I did love psych nursing - found my own little adrenaline rushes there. But to be honest, I think it's time to expand my horizons.

Thanks guys!

[RNFROG3, BSN, RN]

Any time Mary- I think we all need a pick me up sometime. You are gonna be great!