So, I have been working as an elementary school teacher for the past year now, and part of me is having doubts about this career path. Some days I come into work and feel so inspired and passionate about what I am doing with these young students. Other days I peer down at my pitiful excuse of a paycheck and wonder why I signed up for this.
Just this morning I was surfing around job board postings online to see what options there are out there. What astounded me was that a personal assistant position was going to pay 70K, provide a car, a cell phone, and there is no required education level. Currently? I am pursuing my masters degree and I only see money slipping out of my account and not coming back in at nearly the same rate.
I didn’t chose education for the money. I knew that going in I wouldn’t be living a lavish lifestyle. But, sometimes at the age of 23 I want to be exploring the world, traveling and enjoying this time in my life where I have ultimate freedom. I worry that I have chosen my path too soon, and settled too quickly into something that I love, but I don’t know if it’s what I want to do forever. I don’t know.
I really love to write, and despite knowing that I can still come home every day and write and continue to work on pieces that I have been creating over long periods of time … it’s still hard to get up in the morning.
If you have every felt like you are going in the wrong direction, or have gotten cold feet about a major life decision please comment below. I hope I am not alone in all of this!
coffee for one 
Asking for advice is admirable! I know exactly how you feel. I have been teaching for 20 years and have been where you are more than a few times. You have to decide if you can put your heart and soul into being an amazing teacher. If you can’t, your students deserve someone who can. If you can, then make a promise to yourself that you will always remember why you are a teacher–for the students. The fact that you are wondering what to do leads me to believe you can be and want to be that amazing teacher. The downfalls are vast–yes–but pay more attention to the positives. You have them every day. Smiles from your students are worth more than a paycheck any day.
Good luck making a decision.
~ Dawn
Dawn,
Thank you for your words of wisdom. It is certainly challenging each day, but as you said it is oh so very rewarding. I will stay optimistic and see where this journey takes me!
Meg
You’re not alone. I think most of us have that moment where we wonder what on earth we’re doing. But I’m sure you’re a wonderful teacher, and you are always able to stop and start over. Your life is yours as you mentioned in your most recent posting. Keep up the good work, you’re definitely not alone!