In 2012, after a fulfilling yet challenging tenure in teaching, I decided to transition to journalism with aspirations of finding a more creative and financially stable career.
Teaching had its gratifying moments, particularly the interactions with students. Contrary to common assumptions, it was not the students who drove me away but rather the adults—certain colleagues, administrators, and parents—whose actions occasionally undermined educational goals. Despite my passion for teaching English language arts, I often felt a lack of significant impact on my students, leading to feelings of disillusionment. This sense of dissatisfaction coincided with my budding interest in writing, which initially began as a hobby through blogging about movies and television.
By 2012, I resolved to pursue journalism full-time, setting a personal deadline of age 40 to find success in the new field. My transition was marked by a diversity of roles, from bartending to tutoring, and managing social media accounts to support myself while I honed my writing skills. My efforts in journalism saw some success, including publications by esteemed outlets and a stable freelance career during the pandemic when opportunities surged.
However, the subsequent upheaval in the media industry, marked by company closures and massive layoffs, severely impacted freelance writers like myself. The economic pressures of inflation further compounded the situation. Despite my growth as a writer, financial stability remained elusive. I’ve accrued significant debt, making the journalism career seem less sustainable as a primary source of income.
Reflecting on my journey, I question the decision to leave teaching, which could have offered a more stable financial trajectory and the chance to witness more students’ progress in literacy skills. At nearly 46, the quest for a full-time position in journalism or related fields, such as marketing or public relations, has proven challenging. The uncertainty of starting anew in a field that promises, yet doesn’t guarantee, stability adds to the strain.
I do not regret the writing accomplishments I’ve attained, yet the lack of financial sustainability dims the personal satisfaction journalism promised. I am left pondering if remaining in the classroom would have been wiser, providing me not only with financial security but also time to enjoy life beyond work. Meanwhile, the experience of grappling with career uncertainties has instilled in me an appreciation for stability and consistency, traits I may seek if I were to return to teaching.
While my foray into journalism has been marked by both personal growth and professional challenges, it has led me to reconsider the true value of career choices. Balancing passion with practicality emerges as a crucial theme, as I navigate the possibility of returning to a teaching career that offers steadiness and fulfillment in different measures.
Source: Businessinsider
