My Quarter Life Crisis Changed Me For The Better

Big risk offers a big reward.

I’m on a different path and page than some of my friends, and that’s okay. The finish line doesn’t move; everyone goes at their own pace- and my pace right now has to be a little behind some of my friends. I’m making a change to my studies and trying to find out who I am as a person. My life seems to be falling apart, but falling together at the same time. I have the greatest friends and family who support me in everything I decide to do.

My dad has always told me to aim for the stars, and to never apologize for who I am. I am going to carve out the life I want for myself, filled with great people, great stories, and great adventures. I like having a plan, and that is why deciding to not be a teacher freaked me out. I know life kicks plans to the curb, but having a plan where I know my next step helps me remain calm.

My best friend smiled at me when I told her how I wasn’t going to be a teacher and said, “I knew you’d be a great teacher, but I know you wouldn’t have been happy doing it your whole life.” Everyone I told about changing my concentration just smiled, like they knew it was going to happen.

My biggest fear was telling my parents. I didn’t want them to be disappointed in me or disappointed that I wasn’t sticking with a career I had decided on three years ago. But they weren’t. My dad was hoping I was finally going to follow in my Mom’s footsteps and be an RN. No Dad, blood, and taking care of people is not for me. Either way, both of them just said, “do what makes you happy, and do your research, like you always do.” I research everything I can before making a decision, and I know this is the career path I am meant to go down, and I look forward to working in the industry I have admired my whole life.