It took me a little over one week to figure out that working on a cruise ship as a nurse was not for me. Am I disappointed? Yes...I put in a lot of time, money, and effort to become a cruise ship nurse however I was not happy so I left two weeks before my contract was originally suppose to end. I don't like to be classified as a 'quitter' however I have no regrets leaving when I did.
I left the cruise ship early for many reasons which would take me all day to write about so to sum it up...working on a cruise ship is a lifestyle change that I was not prepared for. I didn't like that I couldn't eat with certain peers of mine or go in certain areas of the ship all based on what rank I was (officer) and what others were (non-officers). It seemed very segregated to me and I did not feel comfortable living that way. As a nurse on a ship you are never guaranteed an actual day off...it feels like you're always on call. And the phone you carry around can never leave your side. I am use to working in the hospital setting where you put in a lot of hours for 3 days and get the rest of the week off for yourself. Self-care is really important to me and this was difficult to make a priority working on the ship. I became really sick the second week of the cruise (really bad cough, sore throat, and couldn't sleep at all) yet I had to push through and work while being sick. I knew if I stayed on the ship for the third/fourth week I wouldn't get better (no time for R & R). So, I decided to pack my bags and leave the ship at the next port day when we returned to Florida.
Now what's next? I am trying to figure that all out. I have many options to explore...thinking about becoming a nurse health coach and exploring more energy modalities; I might try a non-nursing job and work at the mountain where Scott works temporarily; maybe focus on writing books....so many options. For now, I will be returning to Maine for 1 month (picking up shifts in the ER). I am thankful to have such supportive family and friends and look forward to seeing you all soon!
I did see some beautiful sights along the way and met some very nice people whom I am grateful for...
Love,
Heidi
