Finding Your Fit: My Journey from Bedside Nurse to Entrepreneur
Want CE credit? Join the Pinnacle Continuing Education Membership to gain access to exclusive digital content including webinars, live events, book clubs, and more. Earn CE credit while consuming content you enjoy from creators you already love.
As a young nursing student, I always knew I wanted to push the boundaries of what was possible in healthcare. The bedside was where I first fell in love with the nursing profession - the intimate connections with patients, the thrill of critical care, the privilege of guiding people through some of their most vulnerable moments. But even then, I could sense there was more out there for me.
Becoming a Nurse Practitioner
The decision to become a nurse practitioner wasn't an easy one. I adored my work as a pediatric nurse in the ICU, and the thought of leaving the bedside felt like I was giving up a part of myself. But I also knew that to truly fulfill my ambitions, I needed more autonomy, more opportunities for growth, and a schedule that would allow me to have the family life I craved. So I took the leap, enrolling in a rigorous BSN to DNP program while continuing to work full-time. It was a grueling few years, but I was driven by that vision of what was possible. When I finally stepped into my first NP role, I was brimming with excitement and possibility. But it didn't take long for that enthusiasm to be dampened by the realities of the job. The clinic I joined was plagued by dysfunction - constant turnover in leadership, an adversarial relationship between the physicians and staff, and a culture that seemed to prioritize profits over patient care. I found myself drowning in administrative tasks, struggling to advocate for my patients, and constantly battling burnout.
Leaving a Toxic Environment
It was during my pregnancy that things finally came to a head. When I requested some reasonable accommodations to make my workdays more manageable, I was met with threats of disciplinary action. That was my breaking point. I made the difficult decision to leave, even without another job lined up. In the midst of my maternity leave, I packed up my things and walked out, determined to find a healthier environment. That transition was not an easy one. I had moments of doubt, wondering if I had made the right choice in leaving the security of that job. But with the support of some incredible mentors, I was able to reframe my perspective. This wasn't a failure - it was an opportunity to take control of my own career path. I started exploring other options, from contract work to starting my own business. And that's when Needles & Tox was born.
A Multi-Faceted Approach
Opening my own medical spa was never part of my original plan. But as I was exploring ways to utilize my newfound expertise in aesthetics, the idea just clicked. Here was a chance to build something that was truly mine, that aligned with my passions and priorities. I started small, doing occasional injections for friends and family, and slowly grew the business from there. Now, I have a thriving practice where I get to blend my clinical skills with my entrepreneurial spirit. Additionally, a mentor operations director contacted me during maternity leave and asked if I would be willing to stay with their health system in a different clinic. Finally, someone at this large health organization made me feel valued. I was hesitant, afraid that even in a new clinic, the same problems would follow. But, suddenly I was in the driver’s seat of the negotiation and was able to negotiate a 0.6FTE role, admin time, and virtual time as a PCP at a clinic with a fresh set of faces. So, Needles & Tox is just one piece of the puzzle. I work part time as employed PCP at a clinic that I love. I've also taken on various contract roles, from disability assessments to COVID testing, that allow me to diversify my income streams and maintain a flexible schedule. This multi-faceted approach has been a game-changer for me. Instead of being beholden to a single employer, I have the freedom to pick and choose opportunities that energize me. I can focus on the aspects of healthcare that I'm most passionate about, without the baggage of a toxic work environment.
“Don’t settle for a job that doesn’t align with your values and priorities”
Looking back, I realize that my winding career path has been a blessing in disguise. The burnout I experienced in that first NP role was devastating at the time, but it ultimately gave me the clarity and courage to forge my own way. I learned that I couldn't rely on a single job or employer to fulfill me - I had to take an active role in shaping my career. And that realization has been incredibly empowering. Now, when I talk to other nurses and NPs, I encourage them to be just as proactive. Don't settle for a job that doesn't align with your values and priorities. Advocate for what you need, whether that's flexible scheduling, better work-life balance, or the opportunity to practice at the top of your license. And don't be afraid to explore alternative paths, like a lower FTE, entrepreneurship, or contract work. The traditional full time employment model isn't the only way to have a fulfilling career in healthcare. At the end of the day, our time and energy are our most precious commodities. We owe it to ourselves to invest them wisely, in roles and environments that bring out the best in us. It may take some trial and error to find that perfect fit, but I can assure you, the journey is worth it.
