Career Change from Teacher to Artist and Crafter
What did you used to do?
Eva – I got my masters in teaching and education in my early 20s but almost immediately realised that school system is not really for me. I worked as a nanny, tutor, tour guide, worked in retail etc. Later, with more need for financial stability, I took teaching position after all.
What made you want to change?
I continuously got great feedback for teaching, but for me something was missing. The idea of comparing and fitting to the school norms never really excited me. In the end even my health was saying I was ready for a big change.
How did you make a start?
Leaving a job is a big decision and letting go of my financial independence and stability wasn’t easy. I felt great pride in my vocation and importance of my role, so detaching from it was my first step.
How did you go about it?
It took me months to mentally prepare. I took another leap towards the career change prior to this one but it wasn’t as fruitful and long term as I was hoping for, despite my great efforts. I knew this time I needed a mentor and that it is my mindset in fact that firstly needs to change. As I was looking for a career coach, I noticed difference in approach in their work. Karen was a huge refreshment and I immediately felt understood, comfortable and very inspired, as the focus was on finding out who I am, not what I “should do” based on my previous skills, education etc.
How did Career Coaching help you move forward?
Working with Karen helped me tremendously as it made many permanent shifts in my mindset. Benefits of those changes I can see in other areas of my life too. I honestly don’t think I would understand the importance of art in this stage of my life let alone give myself a permission to pursue it without my coaching with Karen.
What were the challenges?
There were a lot of challenges along the way. I would say a lot of work with limiting and negative beliefs, confusion about true self, my own values, lacking clarity… A lot of it was an emotional work as much as it evolved plenty of thinking too. I took coaching monthly, so I had plenty of time to think through and journal in between sessions, talk to my partner about it, implement it in my daily life, read and research and do my homework.
How long did it take? I took coaching monthly for 8 months. I now feel confident to take further steps with greater clarity than I could’ve previously even hope for.
What would you do differently?
As far as my coaching sessions I would not change a thing. I am pleased with the amount of time I gave myself to not to rush decisions going through career change. In the past I moved quickly and sometimes out of fear, so this mindset change alone at the start was very beneficial.
What top tips would you give to someone who really wants to change career?
Giving yourself enough time and having a career coach makes a huge difference. I am so happy I made the decision to work with Karen!
