I’m the type of person who needs a plan. When life throws me a curveball I have to figure things out quickly or I risk crawling into bed, curling up in the fetal position and worrying until I have a panic attack.
While I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason that doesn’t mean I can just sit idle. I have to move forward or I get very depressed.
The day my boss warned me that I might not have a position with them by the end of the week I started doing research on a new career. It was something I had thought about off and on for years. Something I thought sounded and looked interesting but I never had time to pursue.
I started reading about becoming a dental assistant.
I know, I know. It is SO different than anything I have ever done before. I have had a career in the non-profit industry for 11 years. Now, after all this time, I was thinking about going into the healthcare field?
C.R.A.Z.Y
I was let go from my last job but I wasn’t happy anyway. In fact, I was miserable and it probably showed.
I was tired of having one day’s notice for a meeting across town that would last until 9:00 p.m. I was tired of being forced to work Saturdays (and even Sundays) just because I was an exempt employee, which makes it easy to take advantage of an employee’s time.
I was tired of sitting behind a computer, watching the clock, begging time to move faster so I could just.go.home. Seriously, they were some of the slowest days I’ve ever experienced.
When this news shook me, I started thinking about what I wanted in a future job. And what I found was that in my current industry I would get none of what I really wanted.
I want to work in a fast-paced office with fun people who actually talk and befriend one another.
I want to work a regular schedule with no impromptu night meetings. In other words, I don’t want to be surprised. And bonus if there is a day off during the week here and there and NO Saturdays.
I want to work with my hands.
I want to work somewhere that doesn’t have me dreading checking email or messages all the time.
I want to work at a place where I feel that I am needed.
As I read about being a dental assistant I realized that all of my desires could be met with this career.
So although I was scared . . . I took a huge leap of faith and signed myself up for a summer program! It is twelve weeks long and will prepare me with all the basics to become a dental assistant. I will be done at the end of August.
You guys? I am so excited. I already have three classes under my belt and have been observing in a dental office. And I love it. I get excited each time I go to class or to the office.
Who knew teeth were so interesting!
I have to admit it feels a little silly to be back in the classroom. I am one of seven and all of the girls are really young. Like, right out of high school! I told them that I am changing careers. One of the girls asked how old I was and when I said, “I’m 33″ her eyes opened wide and she said, “whoa!” I have never felt more ancient than in that moment.
But I don’t really care. What matters is that I am starting over with a smile on my face. I refuse to quit. Even after all the jobs I’ve had and the trouble they have brought me, I would still like to work. So I have to pick myself back up and move forward.
This is a huge change. And when I say I’m stepping out in faith I really truly mean it. I have no idea what will happen when I’m done with this program. I hope to have a job by October but my future feels so unknown right now. It is taking everything I have to just stay positive and trust that God will be with me, leading me on this new path.
I find it amazing. The human heart can take a lot. Mine has been broken more times than I can count. But it always keeps going, a steady beat, the soundtrack of life. I am scared but I’m somehow happy too. Funny how Plan B feels like the right plan all along.
I get to wear scrubs. It's like wearing pajamas to work!
Good for you for finding something you think you’ll like and going after it! That takes a lot of courage, and it’s exciting
(Abbey and I are going to the dentist today, which is kind of funny.)
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Way to bounce back!
That is so exciting!! What a great feeling to be doing something that makes you happy and has you feeling good. Keep it up, Molly!!
Good for you Mol….that makes me happy to hear! I miss you and miss that smile! Love you girl….proud of you too!!!!
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Super cute scrubs! Good luck on this new venture, it sounds perfect!
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Twitter: KimberlyAMuro
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I’m so glad you’re doing something you like and it makes you happy! Good for you for following your dreams!
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Good for you! When I was let go from my last job @ an ad agency (I hated the job, really strongly disliked my boss and there was no opportunity for advancement), the HR director said “at this moment, it sucks, but I think this will be the kick in the @ss you need to find what you love to do!” She was right….I’m not completely fulfilled at my current job, but I do like it and it’s flexible enough to allow me to work the schedule I need to in order to spend time with my family. So good luck to you, you will ROCK THIS!
So happy for you! And pajamas (or pajama like attire) for work, that’s the best perk of all!!!
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I love this post and am so happy for you!! You will be a fabulous dental assistant and I hope you love working in healthcare as much as I do.
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Twitter: BrandyBruce
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Yay, Molly! That’s a fabulous idea!
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That sounds like a great fit! So glad you found something that makes you happy!
What a drain that is emotionally to not like your job…such a huge part of who you are not to enjoy it! Gook luck on your new adventure!
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So glad that you are taking the journey towards a career you enjoy. Congrats on making the leap to do it.
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Yeah! I am sooooo excited for you!
Congratulations!!!! I’ve been following your blog for such a long time (lurking in the shadows and never commenting
) But I have to comment this time. I’ve thought about this very same thing for so long and am so impressed to see someone actually follow through. Such an inspiration! Good Luck!! You will do amazing.
Good for you for finding something you’re so passionate about! I used to work at a hospital. When I got dressed for work one night my son asked me why I was wearing my jammies to work. They really are that comfy too!
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Twitter: momgosomething
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Know what is weird…
I worked in a level 1 trauma center and could handle blood guts pus…you name it…give me some teeth and I pass out. Seriously.
I’m so happy for your new endeavour!!!
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so inspiring ((: glad i read this and it’s nice to know you’re happy(ier) now.
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