Career Regrets - Picking the Wrong Path

Hey there, Shannon here...

This week, we're going to focus on a career misstep that happens to most of us at least once in our lifetimes. This particular misstep comes to us from a follower of the blog, named Abe. In his comment, he stated that his biggest career mistake was becoming a musician instead of a doctor like his cousin became.

Choosing the wrong profession is something I believe most of us can relate to.

I started out working in a machine shop while going to school for Medical Assisting. I realized, right at the end of my program, that Medical Assisting wasn't my calling. I had taken all but one class, had certifications, but ultimately left it behind once I realized my heart wasn't in it.

I also never intended to become a trainer. That path was not one that I was interested in, nor did I think I would be any good at it. Truthfully, my patience can wear a little thin at times. It turned out that not only was I good at it, but I also loved it.

Having the opportunity to help others grow in their roles and professions is incredibly rewarding. Had I not decided to stop pursuing machining or medical assisting, I never would have discovered my real calling which turns out to be training and growing others in their professions.

I say all of this so that if, like me and many others, you find yourself in a profession or even position that your heart is just not in, you can and should go and find that thing that makes your heart sing. It could be something that you're aware of already or it could take you completely by surprise. Other opportunities my lead you to your true calling as well.

Like everything else about our careers, it isn't about the destination so much as the journey. Making the wrong career choice does not have to be a lifetime sentence. There may be reasons you stay in that career anyway and that is also fine. We all have our reasons. But if you're willing and able to take a chance at finding something you love, it is well worth it.

Do you have experience with choosing the wrong profession or role? Did you choose to move on, or did you stick it out? What was the ultimate outcome of either decision? Sound off in the comments!