Career Change Regrets: Lessons from a Failed Teaching Switch

In July 2024, Justine Tello, a former public relations professional, made a significant career shift by leaving her job to become a high school English teacher. This decision, driven by dissatisfaction and a desire for a more impactful role, ultimately led to regret after just one semester in the classroom. Tello’s experience underscores the importance of intentional career planning and aligning one’s work with personal values.

Reflecting on her transition, Tello acknowledges that her choice was influenced by a sense of stagnation in her previous role at a public relations agency. After approximately five years in the industry, she found herself disillusioned with her work environment. Despite taking a nearly 36% pay cut, she believed teaching would provide her with the fulfillment she sought. However, she quickly realized that she was unprepared for the challenges of the teaching profession.

While Tello enjoyed mentoring students and learning new skills, the role did not align with her long-term career aspirations. She left teaching after a single semester, relying on savings and part-time work as a yoga instructor to support herself. Eventually, Tello co-founded a small HVAC and electrical company with her husband, where she leads communications and marketing strategies.

Tello identifies three critical mistakes that contributed to her unsatisfactory career change. The first was dwelling on past workplace issues. In her final year at the PR agency, she became increasingly frustrated by minor setbacks, such as delayed promotions and company layoffs. Although her workplace had supportive colleagues and a generally positive atmosphere, her negative mindset clouded her judgment.

The second mistake involved running away from discontent instead of addressing it. Tello felt isolated after working remotely for several years, which intensified her desire for face-to-face interactions. She pursued a teaching position not out of a passion for education, but as a means to escape her dissatisfaction. She suggests that reframing one’s perspective can lead to more meaningful experiences in any job.

Lastly, Tello acknowledges the error of pursuing a new “calling” without a clear career plan. She emphasizes that while it is essential to follow passions, it is equally important to develop a strategy that aligns with personal values and long-term goals. She believes a thoughtful approach could have helped her identify whether teaching was truly a fit for her.

Looking back, Tello recognizes that her decision to quit teaching was driven by overwhelming work hours and emotional exhaustion. Although she faced challenges in lesson planning and curriculum development, she values the lessons learned from her experience.

Tello’s journey highlights the importance of self-reflection and strategic planning when considering a career change. She encourages others contemplating a similar shift to evaluate their skills and interests, research potential job opportunities, and connect with professionals in their desired fields.

Ultimately, Tello’s story serves as a reminder that failures can provide valuable insights and pave the way for future successes. While she may wish to alter her past choices, she appreciates the personal growth that has emerged from her experiences.