I took a leap in my career at 27 and regretted it. Here's what I wish I could change.

In the summer of 2024, halfway through my professional journey, I made a considerable shift that I soon realized was a mistake.

After roughly a year of unhappiness at my job, I made the move from a public relations role to teach high school English, accepting a pay decrease of almost 36%.

The reduced salary didn't bother me because I was seeking a role that felt more meaningful and impactful. However, I quickly found myself unprepared and stressed by the switch, ultimately leaving the teaching position after one semester.

Initially, I got by with savings, family support, and small earnings from teaching yoga part-time. During this period, my then-boyfriend and I got engaged and wed within six months.

Currently, we manage a small HVAC and electrical business together, where I oversee communication and marketing efforts.

Reflections on Teaching

I cherished the interactions with students and the chance to mentor a few but found that the role didn't align with my long-term aspirations.

The job change was a reaction to my dissatisfaction with my previous employer, where I felt stuck and uninterested in my clients' goals. Rather than reconsider my objectives or rejuvenate my perspective, I opted for a quick way out.

Reflective Realizations: Three Critical Missteps

Mistake 1: Fixating on Past Work Issues

During my final year at the PR firm, minor setbacks seemed larger than they were, contributing to my discontent even after they were resolved. Events like promotion delays and disagreements with my manager lingered in my thoughts.

Despite my company and managers addressing these issues effectively, my attitude was marred by a sequence of negative experiences. Even though I had supportive colleagues and tasks I liked, I couldn't shake off my dissatisfaction at work.

Mistake 2: Escaping Displeasure Instead of Facing It

After working remotely for four years and feeling isolated, I yearned for in-person interaction. I clung to the notion that changing jobs was the only way to resolve my dissatisfaction.

A family member's suggestion led me to apply for a teaching role, not out of passion for education, but because of a desire to positively influence people. Yet, I realized accepting it wasn't about fulfilling a calling; it felt more like an obligation.

Had I revisited my thinking during my PR turmoil, I might have approached my work with a renewed outlook. Sometimes, finding fulfillment is about maximizing your potential and doing your best for personal and communal benefit.

Mistake 3: Prioritizing a New ‘Calling’ Over a Career Strategy

Rather than strategically shaping a career trajectory, I chased an appealing new path, leading to imbalance. It's critical to be intentional when changing careers, establishing broad objectives instead of impulsively pursuing new ideas.

Contrary to my belief at the time, setting definitive directions doesn't preclude future changes.

Looking back, I should have plotted a detailed career roadmap before diving into a different field. If a teaching ambition existed, it would have surfaced in a brainstorming session focused on new career ideas.

For those seeking their true calling, I suggest cataloging skills and interests, then researching compatible careers. If a potential new direction emerges, approach it methodically by acquiring relevant experiences and networking within the industry.

Embracing the Future

I departed from teaching due to extended hours, emotional burnout, and isolation. While advice from fellow teachers was appreciated, creating lesson plans solo was daunting.

Despite wishing I had made different choices, I value the insights gained and the relationships formed. Each misstep offers educational opportunities, and embracing them fosters personal development.

I am thankful for the self-discovery this experience facilitated, showing me where to improve and establish fresh objectives. Failures can teach valuable lessons, and I am determined to make the most of this one.