Grief ≠ Regret

Some positive words for those of you who are hesitant to take the first steps out:

I was so scared to admit that teaching wasn’t for me. I went through years of study and practice, knowing the whole time I wasn’t ready for the real thing. I didn’t even make it through a full year of subbing before I was let go. I’d never been fired in my life; I realize now it was because subconsciously I didn’t want to be there. As gut wrenching as it was, I felt immense relief. I was finally told I didn’t have to do this anymore.

A couple hundred applications and a handful of panic attacks later, I was given a chance in the corporate world. It’s the best thing that could’ve happened to me. I’m getting better sleep, have a good routine, and I don’t get the “Sunday scaries” anymore. I’m not emotionally drained either- I didn’t realize how badly that was impacting the quality of my life until I no longer felt it.

All of this being said, I grieved over leaving the career for a long time. I miss the good moments of teaching. Seeing a kid have a breakthrough is one of the most rewarding feelings I’ve ever experienced. I also remember how dehumanizing it felt to be in a room of 30 children who had no respect for me. I remember every instance where I held back tears. Every embarrassing moment. Every time I won. Every time I lost.

I came to this sub a while back to ask what the final straw was for those of you who left education. It was so abundantly clear that the decision was equally rewarding and terrifying, but none of you who responded to my post regret your choice. You knew what you had to do.

Whatever “it” means to you: It’s worth it. You’re worth it.

Make the decision that’s best for you.

Anyway, thank you for coming to my TED Talk 😂