From Exhaustion to Empowerment: A Nurse’s Journey of Renewal

A personal reflection on reclaiming joy, purpose, and leadership through accredited continuing education — online and in retreat settings.

There was a moment—somewhere between the endless emails, the late-night charting, and the weight of always being “on”—when I realized I was running on fumes. I had built a career I was proud of, led teams I loved, and poured myself into every Continuing Education (CE) course, every leadership role, every opportunity to grow. But somewhere along the way, I stopped feeling lit up by it.

I wasn’t broken. I was burnt out.

The Turning Point

I didn’t need another webinar or a checklist on resilience. I needed space. I needed sun. I needed to remember who I was outside of the scrubs and spreadsheets. That’s when the idea sparked:

What if continuing education could feel restorative? What if nurse leaders could earn accredited CEUs while reconnecting with themselves—whether on a beach, in community, or even from the comfort of home?

The Vision

CEU Escape was born from that question. As an Accredited Nursing Continuing Education Provider BRN CEP #18153, I wanted to create something immersive, playful, and purposeful. A space where nurse leaders could:

  • Earn CEUs through online courses or retreats that inspire growth

  • Connect with others who truly understand the nursing journey

  • Step away from the grind and into renewal

  • Feel seen, celebrated, and recharged

Not just a vacation. Not just a conference. Something in between—something better.

The Shift

Building CEU Escape has been its own kind of leadership journey. It’s reminded me that:

  • Leadership isn’t just about showing up for others—it’s about showing up for yourself

  • Burnout isn’t a failure—it’s a signal

  • Joy is a strategy, not a luxury

This blog, Leadership Lounge, is an extension of that vision. A place to share stories, spark ideas, and remind nurse leaders that they deserve more than survival. They deserve empowerment.

Call to Action

If you’ve felt the burnout creeping in, know this: you’re not alone. And you don’t have to wait for permission to pause, reflect, and rise.

Join me. Let’s lead with heart—and escape with purpose.

Explore our accredited retreats and online courses to earn CEUs while restoring balance and advancing your career.

 Have more questions? Email us at info@ceuescape.com or check our retreat calendar and online course catalog to see what’s coming up next.

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Rethinking Nurse Leadership Education