The importance of risk-taking: Quitting my job
Background Story
A little about me, I am someone who loves computers and technology. In my teens, I distinctly remember looking at universities, pricing out computer science programs, and dreaming about attending one of these schools and becoming an awesome programmer. There was only one problem with this dream. When I was 17 I dropped out of high school and wanted to become a professional skateboarder. Academics were not my strong suit.
After working some minimum wage jobs and realizing how difficult it will be to make a living I enrolled in a trades program. It wasn't because I was passionate about trades but rather my parent's advice. Which, isn't bad advice if you are trying to pay the bills.
Months turned into years, and the next thing I knew I was burnt out from the pandemic and working in a toxic environment. Now approaching my 5th year at that company I was booking a vacation to visit family. Getting increasingly eager by the day, thoughts of how difficult it is to return to this job can't stop swirling through my brain.
Reflecting on, and trying to understand the value this job brings me. Sure it "Pays the bills", and has good job security, but I am just reaching my tipping point when it comes to stress, feeling valued, or seeing the big picture.
One nice thing this company did a good job at was asking; where do you see yourself in 5 years. But all I could think now was hopefully far away from here. All this being said, as I was about 2 weeks away from my vacation I decided to put in my notice and leave.
The Challenges
Great! So I mustered up enough confidence to pursue a healthier life!
No, it was not that simple.
I remember sitting in my car at the end of the day with my letter of resignation. Without being able to stop debating is this the right choice? This puts a roof over my head and gives me the ability to own a car and have a life without too many financial worries. So then, why am I throwing in the towel? The real problem is, I am not living the life I want to live.
If I had to take a guess this is probably where the quote "money doesn't buy happiness" comes from. However, on a side note, I will argue money can solve many problems.
I quit! Now what?
After taking a nice vacation visiting family, and being proud of my courage to explore new horizons it was time to buckle down and get back to work. This time, instead of having my parents guide me to success I decided to explore what interests me, computer science.
Taking a handful of Udemy courses, YouTube videos, articles, Reddit, and so on. It became evident to me that if I am looking for success then going back to school is my best option. So I enrolled in online studies and started upgrading my Math and English.
The Reward
After nothing short of really hard work I was able to gain admission to a University taking a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science starting in the Fall of 2024.
This to me, has been one of my greatest accomplishments. While I realize I haven't finished the degree or even started it for that matter. It's the realization of the importance of taking a risk. Also, it has been a dream of mine for so long. Showing yourself you can take a risk and make your dreams your reality is something money can't simply buy.