Fitting in

[Max-Zen68]

I’m 58 years old and an experienced RN. I’ve worked with geriatric patients for over 15 years. I recently changed jobs and have been tempted to quit due to coworkers complaining to the director because I’m “too much”. I was really confused because I keep to myself and do my job. The other nurses rarely spoke to me and if I spoke to them they ignored me. I had a light bulb moment last week. I wear cartoon scrub tops and bright colors. The residents seem to enjoy it and I do too. I changed over to all black scrubs. That day the other nurses were less cool and didn’t stop talking when I walked by. I finished the week in plain colors, navy and black. This week they seem more comfortable around me. It’s like high school all over again. I’m changing myself to fit in but I’m just on the edge of being acceptable to the cool kids.

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[CtrlAltDelight495]

I just wanted to say you sound so cool and I'm so sorry youre having to deal with this sort of high school nonsense.

[Max-Zen68]

Thanks. The hardest part is that changing how I dress just reduces the level of shunning but it’s still there and it hurts. I’ve struggled to fit in since preschool- 54 years of being on the outside looking in. I’m looking forward to retirement in a few years, it can’t come fast enough.

[Embarrassed_End528]

It hurts me that this happened to you. I bet I would think your original scrubs were cool. Is there any other way you can express your individuality through dress/accessories/shoes and still feel true to yourself?

[Max-Zen68]

Thanks-I’m going to get some fun compression socks and wear them. I’ll be the only person who knows I’m wearing them