How You Know When It’s Time to Go
• Limited opportunities to gain new skills, networks, expertise, or certifications
• No opportunities for advancement
• Hit the pay ceiling
• Dread going to work, lost enthusiasm, and start each day with a horrible feeling in the pit of your stomach
• Find yourself obsessively checking job boards for an opportunity — any opportunity — that would allow you to quit
• Your job is making you sick, and the stress is affecting your health
• Unsupportive management and/or toxic workplace culture
It Might Be Time to Make a Change
If you’re experiencing these signs:
✔ It may be time to start evaluating other opportunities
✔ Weigh the pros and cons
✔ Think about what you need to thrive — not just survive
Before You Leave, Prepare Smartly
• Update your résumé
• Refresh your credentials
• Build a professional portfolio
• Start your job search early (ideally 3–6 months before making a move)
If You Do Leave, Exit Gracefully
Don’t burn bridges — nursing is a small world.
If you can, give yourself time to rest between roles. Reset your mind. Rebuild your energy.
