Last month, I took a deep breath, walked in to my boss's office, and quit my job, and today is my last day. It was the single most nerve-wracking thing I have ever done in my life. Not just the moment where I turned in to my notice, but the days and weeks leading up to that moment...the thinking, the praying, the guilt. These things made it the hardest decision of my life.
For a little bit of background information, I'm a registered nurse, and I work as a unit manager at a long term care facility (nursing home). This nursing home is where I started my very first job as an LPN, and after I graduated the second time, I was promoted to being a manager. I love my job. I love the people, the atmosphere, but mostly I love the residents who lived at the facility. They were (and still are) so special to me.
Maybe you're thinking, Kalyn if you love your job so much, why did you quit? There were, at the time, what seemed like a lot of factors. Looking back, they seem like little things, but at the time they were big things. I was overwhelmed. Overwhelmed not only with my job responsibilities, but with my life. I needed a change: a change of scenery, a change of pace.
As I mentioned, it was a tough decision. There was a lot of talk with my husband, my family, and much more praying for guidance. I wanted to know that I was making the right choice. You know the analogy people always give with the oxygen masks in the airplane? This was that kind of situation. I couldn't take care of other people without first taking care of myself.
There are some people that don't "get it" when I explain that I'm making a personal decision to step back, or take a "demotion", in my new job title, and that's okay. Not everyone understands needing a little bit of self-love. Not everyone understands that life can sometimes take harder tolls on me while it doesn't affect you at all.
This last day of work is so bittersweet. I have heard the kindest words over the last few weeks and those words really make me feel good. I've been encouraged and reminded why I first chose to become a nurse. I'm excited to be taking the next step in my nursing career, and I'm excited for the new opportunities I'll be provided. Amidst all the excitement though is just a little bit of sadness at leaving my first "real" job and workplace. I ask that you keep me in your prayers as I begin this completely new journey.
Cheers to new beginnings!
