Nursing is an exceptionally rewarding field, but it’s also one of the most demanding. An NIH study reports that nurses experience a high rate of burnout along with low job satisfaction levels. Statistically speaking, 91.1% of nurses encountered burnout, much higher than 79.9% for healthcare workers in general.
Most nurses struggle with the fast pace, long hours, and high emotional stakes, and some even consider a career break. They may do it for different reasons, from raising a family to recovering from burnout, or pursuing education. Some simply seek a change of pace. If you want a career break from nursing, you should not consider it a setback.
A well-managed career break can become a springboard to greater personal fulfillment and professional success. In this article, we will share a few tips to make the most of your time away and position yourself for a rewarding comeback.
Prioritize Financial Planning
Solid financial planning is the foundation of a successful career break, regardless of your profession. According to Indeed, a registered nurse in the US makes $43.87 per hour, while the average overtime per year is an impressive $12,000. That’s a lot of money to lose when taking a sabbatical. You must have a clear roadmap to overcome the dip in your earnings.
Start by defining your goals for your time off: are you traveling, studying, spending time with family, or simply recharging? Knowing your purpose will help estimate the duration and, therefore, the resources required.
The next step is to outline your expenses, including housing, food, health insurance, loan payments, and any planned activities. Also, build a sabbatical fund before going on the break. Ideally, save enough to cover all your essential costs for the time you’ll be away.
Reduce discretionary spending and work extra shifts before your break to boost your savings. Budget for license renewals and necessary professional development so your return to practice is seamless. Financial preparation protects you from levels and allows you to truly rejuvenate.
Understand Employer Policies
Before making any decisions, thoroughly research your employer’s policies regarding extended leave. After all, you may want to return at some time, so ensure that the doors are open for you. Some organizations offer sabbaticals, career breaks, or unpaid leave of absence options for up to six months. You may even get longer time-offs for family or educational reasons.
Consider the impact of the step on your job security, benefits, and pension, as policies can vary widely. Think of the risks involved, and decide whether you are prepared for them. Discuss your plans with your manager if you feel comfortable. This transparency can help maintain good communication and increase the likelihood of your position being held open.
You may want to leave the organization for good and start on a fresh note after the break. If you are considering resignation, think carefully about timelines and requirements for returning to the profession. For example, your nursing registration status requires a detailed review. Check requirements to keep your nursing license active during your time away.
Upskill for a Rewarding Comeback
Professional growth doesn’t have to pause during a career break. It is actually an ideal time to expand your skill set. TechTarget highlights the value of upskilling as it opens new opportunities for you within the same company. Not surprisingly, many organizations encourage it as a workforce development and motivation strategy.
While you are away, you can consider options in second careers for nurses while staying in the same field. For example, you can move from the RN role and specialize with advanced credentials in different fields. The best part is that you can pursue online programs in diverse niches.
According to Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, critical care, cardiac care, emergency department care, surgical care, palliative care, and psych nursing are some popular options. Besides pursuing education, you can volunteer in healthcare-adjacent settings to keep your clinical knowledge sharp. These steps enhance your CV and demonstrate ongoing commitment.
You can also develop non-clinical skills in fields like management, IT, research, or teaching to broaden your career options upon return. If you’re interested, travel nursing or international volunteer work can offer personal and professional development.
Reboot and Rejuvenate
A career break is your chance to reboot and rejuvenate if you feel drained and stressed. This will benefit your personal well-being and your future as a nurse. Self-care should be number one on your checklist. According to a BMJ study, self-care can enhance the mental health of nursing professionals. Additionally, it improves the quality of care they offer.
The same study highlights the significance of sleep quality as a self-care factor for nurses. Get enough of it when you are on a break. Also, develop routines around exercise and activities you enjoy to rebuild your mental and emotional resilience. Use the time to set short-term goals for personal and professional growth, and assess your larger career aspirations.
Travel, engage in hobbies, and explore learning experiences unrelated to nursing to gain new perspectives. If burnout was a factor in your career break decision, focus on recovery and seek professional support. Taking care of yourself ensures you come back energized and with more to offer.
FAQs
When should nurses take a career break?
Nurses should consider a career break when experiencing burnout and feeling the need to rest and recharge. Major life changes, such as starting a family or caregiving for loved ones, are also a good time for a sabbatical. A break is also reasonable when seeking time to reflect on future goals or when major transitions in personal life require attention.
Does a career break look bad on a CV?
No, a career break does not look bad on a CV. In fact, it can be a plus if you remain engaged in professional development or relevant activities during your time away. Employers increasingly value well-rounded candidates with resilience and a commitment to lifelong learning. Add any courses, volunteering, or relevant experiences to your CV to make a great impression.
Why should nurses take breaks?
Nursing is a physically and emotionally demanding career with high rates of stress and burnout. Career breaks help prevent burnout, provide space for reflection, and allow recovery from stress or trauma. Eventually, they can lead to increased job satisfaction and longevity in the field. They also offer opportunities for personal development, travel, family time, or upskilling.
A nursing career break is more than an opportunity to relax and recharge. With the right mindset and some strategic ideas, you can make it a powerful tool for personal and professional renewal. The right approach can help you build a more fulfilling and sustainable career in healthcare after a sabbatical.
Source: Dr Gina Sam MD
