I feel like I've been in a "drop out"/ transitional phase ever since finishing my undergrad. I was already disillusioned with the work world that I had experienced in many different industries, so I thought I could sort of escape it by traveling and teaching ESL. But boy was I wrong. What you've said about work life balance as a teacher is relatable to me, and I wasn't even doing it full time! But it drained me and totally sucked the joy out of me only after about 6 months. I was giving way too much for basically nothing in return. And thinking that by putting my heart and soul into creating fun lessons and connecting deeply with the students that it would mitigate the bs aspects of the job. And so for the past few years I've just been doing whatever jobs I can find (not in teaching) that pay a little bit better than minimum wage and that don't require any extra work in my free time so that I can do the things that keep me sane and somewhat in balance, while struggling to get by in a world that is very out of balance... For so much of my life I've wanted to find that perfect career in which I felt a sense of pride, accomplishment, fulfillment, abundance, etc., but at this point I don't care anymore. I don't need some title to give me what I already know is mine on a non-material level at least, which is what truly matters. Wish you the best on your journey. You're definitely not alone!
Same here. My best non-teaching job so far was a ten year stint as a nurse assistant in a hospital. Start at 7:30, out the door at 3:30 with no meetings to attend, mandatory coaching, parent-teacher meetings, MARKING PAPERS, or lesson planning. A sense of guilt and duty got me back into teaching and here I am again: working cheque to cheque and little to no intrinsic reward from working with students nor fellow staff.
I am a former ESL teacher and I wasn't teaching full time, but still put in full time hours. I have worked in jobs that do not require me to take work home and it has helped immensely.
I cannot express how much I relate to what you said in this video. My background is social work and nursing, but I have had similar thoughts and feelings over the years. One thing I noticed is your eyes smiled when you talked about your wife. I am grateful she is in your life! I look forward to hearing more and watching your journey. Nice to meet you! - Christopher
I was a social worker and when an opportunity came along to do something different, I left the field. I was so tired and stressed out. It’s been 7 years and now I’m tired in this job too. The rat race is so depressing.
I'm feeling this. I've been lost for many years. I'm trying to get out of lawn care. I did it out of necessity and now i feel trapped. I'm working towards getting out of this mortgage and going to the country, living simple, making music, hiking, vlogging, and like you said, "just sitting". I want to sit by the river and just reflect, or have nothing on my mind. I need it desperately. You did a great job of expressing where you are, and it's inspiring.
I think there's real strength in coming to this realization. I've beat myself up for a long time and prioritized everything else but myself for many, many years. There comes a point when you realize that--this is life--to put it bluntly. Regardless of your beliefs of afterlife, etc--this is life right now and the one I'm experiencing right now. I need to live in a way that meets my needs and aligns with my core self. Shit is hard, though. I'm right there with you--not sure we'll figure it out, but the hope of finding what I'm looking for sustains me. Peace, brother.
Good luck finding your way. I worked 35 years in education and felt the same for many years. I never had the courage to find myself instead of going through the motions.
Everyone wants to do what they want to do. You should do what you want, but you'll need food, shelter, and any other necessities. You'll have to figure out how to meet your needs and do what you want to do. I very much relate. Hope you find your answers, and me too. ☮
Thanks, Steve. That's certainly a reality that will be faced. I'm willing to accept those challenges if what I'm doing aligns closer to myself. Peace, brother.
you're not crazy for dropping out. you might face some obvious consequences but the energy you get from following your path will give you resilience to figure those things out. take care of yourself, and thanks for putting your feelings out there. It takes courage, and it matters more than you might realize. I have a feeling this is one of the best decisions you'll have ever made.
I'm a bit younger and work in healthcare, but I can relate to much of what you’re saying. Videos like this are so important because they reflect the experiences of many in society. There's more to life than just work-exploring the world is an exciting adventure and a great way to reset. Traveling helped me discover who I am, break out of my bubble, gain new perspectives, meet new people, and try new things. You’ve got seven years of teaching under your belt, so you have the experience to go back whenever you want. Take that leap of faith!
I noticed the increasing apathy even when I was a kid. It was as though, starting around the late 80's, there was this idea that it was 'cool to be bored', or not being interested in the world around you was a sign of superiority. It's gotten significantly worse over time. I don't understand it.
This comment has helped me not feel alone in that thought of people acting bored or dis interested. I can't take that cuz I know it's an act they put on cuz it does seem like the person is cool calm and collected. I'm a lot more flamboyant about how I take on the world and get excited about life. And I've been made fun of because of that.
I've just found you here on youtube. You caught my attention inmediately. I was also a teacher but now I take care of my little son who is autistic. I dont want to come back. Life is already hard for me. Have a nice trip in life🎉 send you good vibes from Chile ❤
Hey man, I just wanted to say I'm sorry, its heart breaking to hear how much the system is letting down good teachers like you that want to teach and that do care. The lack of respect for such an important role today is honestly astounding and horrific to witness. Few things I would like to say: 1. No job or calling is ever worth destroying yourself over. You deserve joy, happiness and respect. 2. Sometimes the most important lessons we can learn is through journeying into something we really wanted to do and discovering that we don't want to do those things. You went in and gave it your all and you made the discovery that the current climate isnt something you agree with. And its ok to be sad and upset, to grieve over such things, but you have in turn learned what you DONT want to do and what you will not accept. Take those lessons with you into the future. 3. Allow yourself to be open and to recover. Allow yourself to love and make new discoveries. Take time to spend time with yourself and your loved ones. I wish you all the best.
Romanian here, we feel the same, bro! What I've started doing is going to the gym, losing 50+ lbs, and started loving my own body once again. My clothes fit better, people have started complimenting me for my progress, and we'll see how my life will be in the future... Start with this!
Your video found me at the most appropriate time, and I just wanted to express my sincerest thank you, fellow "life dropout" .🌻 To add to that, while you may be unsure of the way ahead, might I encourage you to keep on going 🐢🌱.. keep figuring it out as you walk with one foot in front of the other. Despite not knowing much more than the content shared in this video, I'd say that you're certainly on the right track already. It's a noble act to pursue that which gives life more meaning, and you'll find such peace when you're able to leave behind all those unfortunate expectations society places on you. When the light seems to dim, take heart in the following - "where one door closes, another is surely to open before us". Keep your head toward the skies then friend, and delight in the things that bring you joy. The wonder and simplicity of life is out there.. don't let it pass you by. 🕊️ Well wishes good sir, and I look forward to your next video! 😊.. it's been a pleasure to have been but a mere listener. I hope you feel seen, and heard. 🌌
You are not a nobody! You have made very valuable achievements in your life thus far that you can and should be proud of. I too was going through a rough patch in life (still am) and my psychologist/ therapist told me that it’s fine to reset and have as many off days or gap years as you need, you are human not a machine! Some people may not understand your decisions or situations but that’s fine, only you can live your life no one else. If someone looks at you and calls you lazy just for waking up in the morning and doing nothing else they can go F themselves imo…. Life is short but it’s never too late, do all the things you love with the people you love because the greatest human achievement is to be content and happy 😃
Boy, your content is great. REgarding what you say at 21:00, about being upset it took you 37 years to realize what you've realized: it's part of the journey, imo. You have to see the other side (doing what society wants, and not getting joy from it) in order to cherish your "awakening" more. But yea, you could have awoken sooner, but it takes significant effort to distance yourself from your conditioning, so don't beat yourself up too much about it... just my 2 cents, because I also have been struggling with this regret after my so-called "awakening" or how do you want to call it (basically what you're describing here in your channel).
God is speaking through the circumstances, calling you to himself. Jesus loves the lowly and the small and came to call all those weary and tired in life. He says 'Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28) The joy of God's love is the answer. This is true happiness. Jesus died for you because he valued you and loved you for who you are, what you need to do is rest in him. Turn to him friend. Please read the New Testament and see he will speak to these exact feelings you are experiencing. 😊 Praying for you.
Yes, you are valuable and worthy for just being you. You're not your job. Quitting the wrong thing can be the best thing you'll ever do. It opens the door to exploring new paths. Good luck on your journey!
It shows a lot of bravery to be this honest about your dissatisfaction and your need to “switch off” for a bit. Good luck on your journey and I’d be interested to see what you do next. I have a good friend who also got disillusioned with his teaching job (maths & physics). Years later I still don’t think he’s really figured out what his ultimate purpose is but he’s having plenty of interesting experiences in unusual places along the way while he tries to answer that question
Hart warming and honest openness. Stay strong buddy, you are a good person and have come far already. You seem the right type of person to teach kids. Hope you will find back the joy in life and being a teacher.
Went through that too the year before. Between teachers not being kind to kids or each other, admin and staff spreading rumors and ostricisng others, and kids not getting the mental health services they need, I lost all ambition to teach in an educational setting. I'm a lot happier being a life coach and soon to be counselor (heck, I was already doing this work as an aid). It's hard, but you'll get to the good again. Invest in yourself and always choose your health over anything.
Thank you for sharing such a personal story. You described your relationship with the education system as a "slap in the face", feeling disheartened about it. But because you mentioned you do love teaching, and you intended to have a positive impact on students, I wonder if you may find a much better avenue using TH-cam (or other services) to launch your own personalized teaching platform. This way you can go directly to the students, and to put aside all the things you mentioned are the bane of your existence (meetings, micromanaging, administration). You may not need to work inside the education system. Keep it up, good luck Steve!
This was a great suggestion Jcut ~ I’m an educator in the middle of a “Midlife Dropout” as well, and when I get my bearings, I’ll probably go the self employment route with regard to teaching… I worked on an ESL teaching platform for a while, and although the pay was horrible, I had NO OTHER ISSUES. I then thought to myself; if it’s that easy, I could set up my own platform, and charge accordingly…. Thanks again for this spark of inspiration! ☀️
Its not working because people aren't seeing you and your value. Its not you. You need kindness all the time. Not occassionally. I hear you. I don't know why people can't just be kind to each other. You sound like an incredible teacher. The world is sick. Not you. ❤
My daughter stopped teaching and did a Masters in Peace and Conflict studies. She still sleeps alot. Recovering from teaching. She was a good teacher. I told her at school that her scores dont matter. Build a School of Kindness. 🎉 I have found the same experience in the Business world. People are largely unhappy.
I’ve been in teaching, I quit a few times. I shouldn’t have done it with my first school, years some thirty yrs ago, comparing it to today’s edu standards. I came back this September after teaching courses for adults and couldn’t stop thinking of running away. But what exactly am I moving myself to? I’ m dissilusioned now, I’ll be disappointed with myself soon, and wishing I had stayed, survived. Why though, without any hope for the better.
*Former* _teacher_ here. Not in USA (I'm in Europe). Quite literally: 70% - meetings, administration, more meetings, more more more administration, papers + 1001 online forms, grades, evaluations.... And then 30% (maybe... ...30% at best...) teaching, interacting w/ students... Parents don't care about academia, knowledge, growing, expanding horizons 🙄 *They only care about A+'es . And management/administration cares only about students having straight A+'es*
I'm a lot like you, 39 year old teacher of 10 years, since I teach all five levels of a foreign language, I've always had a ridiculous amount of preps every day. It takes a toll on you for sure. Unfortunately I can't just up and quit, have a health condition that limits my mobility, teaching is the best gig I'll ever be able to manage.
You're very sincere and I really relate to you. I'm pretty confused about the meaning of my life. Hope you can explore and find your meaning. Looking forward to your videos. Best wishes!
I started looking for places to rent and ended up applying to the peace corp. Teaching English in Liberia seems like a way better deal than teaching anything here.
Consider learning an Asian language during this period that you are working on yourself. I feel like you are the kind of guy that would thrive (relative to here) in Asia.
Any teacher who doesn’t come to the conclusion that Education is a trashcan on fire is either completely brainwashed by the system or gaslit with toxic positivity. Being a teacher is a terrible job. The only thing that keeps us going is the hope of helping children and young people. Administration WILL NOT let us do that. At our school, teachers barely have time to use the restroom. I commend you for taking the time for yourself. The public needs to know how much teachers are severely being affected by the constraints of Administration. After teaching almost two decades in Oklahoma, I see the impact of severe poverty and a society who does not value education. They are literally insane here. The state superintendent is imposing bible mandates in every classroom. The parents are highly antagonistic towards the schools because the culture in Oklahoma doesn’t value education. It's so toxic.
If you have the means, go abroad, dude. Teaching abroad is always looking for qualified American teachers. Work-life balance is a little better. Your money goes further abroad.
I think it's just the best way I can put into words the idea of leaving traditional life behind. I'm realizing I'm not particularly interested in living within the traditional confines that society has created. William Blake describes the idea of "mindforged manacles" as the sort of limitations we put on ourselves. I kind of view it like that but the limitations society puts on living true to our values and to ourselves.
A big hello from Russia. I'm 47. An English teacher, tutor actually. Never worked at school. I guess I'm living the life of my dreams. I love teaching so much. Yet, I can't say I'm happy. I am coming to the conclusion that it's not about your age, or social pressure, or job. It's about life. Once you were born, you can't expect to ever be happy. If you are more or less sane, you can't be happy.... On the other hand, I look at my colleagues working at school. I'm so sorry for them. Here in Russia it's just the same story. Teachers are underpaid, disrespected, work 24/7. Anyway, hope you'll find some peace and quiet. Good luck to you! 🌳🍏🍀
@@zeerakshow Job wise - yes , I'm happy. I teach people from 4 to 70 years old. It's hard at times, but I love English, and I love teaching. I'm also a dance teacher, and a little a yoga teacher. So teaching is my life. But I'm single, so in this regard, I can't say I'm happy. But I look at my married friends with kids. Well, they have more reason to be happy. But are they? Well.... They have more reason to be happy, more distractions, but at the end of the day, they are as sad as me very often. Anyway, I wish everybody a good job and a good family!!
I so appreciate and respect your vulnerability in sharing this. I have been feeling like dropping out but due to the loss of my Father figure four months ago. It’s like suddenly the world feels more in focus and I just want to make sure I’m living this one precious life in a way I can be proud of. 🤍 I’m excited to be able to share in your journey! Thank you for doing this.
That's basically where I'm at too. Life is too short (as cliche as that is). If you're in a place to be able to make that change physically, emotionally, and spiritually then I say go for it.
@@TheMidlifeDropout totally - I’m a stay at home mom with two young kids so I’m trying to think about I can do it without turning all our lives upside down 🙃 we’ll see!
I feel like I've been in a "drop out"/ transitional phase ever since finishing my undergrad. I was already disillusioned with the work world that I had experienced in many different industries, so I thought I could sort of escape it by traveling and teaching ESL. But boy was I wrong. What you've said about work life balance as a teacher is relatable to me, and I wasn't even doing it full time! But it drained me and totally sucked the joy out of me only after about 6 months. I was giving way too much for basically nothing in return. And thinking that by putting my heart and soul into creating fun lessons and connecting deeply with the students that it would mitigate the bs aspects of the job. And so for the past few years I've just been doing whatever jobs I can find (not in teaching) that pay a little bit better than minimum wage and that don't require any extra work in my free time so that I can do the things that keep me sane and somewhat in balance, while struggling to get by in a world that is very out of balance...
For so much of my life I've wanted to find that perfect career in which I felt a sense of pride, accomplishment, fulfillment, abundance, etc., but at this point I don't care anymore. I don't need some title to give me what I already know is mine on a non-material level at least, which is what truly matters.
Wish you the best on your journey. You're definitely not alone!
Same here. My best non-teaching job so far was a ten year stint as a nurse assistant in a hospital. Start at 7:30, out the door at 3:30 with no meetings to attend, mandatory coaching, parent-teacher meetings, MARKING PAPERS, or lesson planning. A sense of guilt and duty got me back into teaching and here I am again: working cheque to cheque and little to no intrinsic reward from working with students nor fellow staff.
I am a former ESL teacher and I wasn't teaching full time, but still put in full time hours. I have worked in jobs that do not require me to take work home and it has helped immensely.
I cannot express how much I relate to what you said in this video. My background is social work and nursing, but I have had similar thoughts and feelings over the years. One thing I noticed is your eyes smiled when you talked about your wife. I am grateful she is in your life! I look forward to hearing more and watching your journey. Nice to meet you! - Christopher
I was a social worker and when an opportunity came along to do something different, I left the field. I was so tired and stressed out. It’s been 7 years and now I’m tired in this job too. The rat race is so depressing.
I think you’re gonna live a life beyond your dreams! Subscribed.
I'm feeling this. I've been lost for many years. I'm trying to get out of lawn care. I did it out of necessity and now i feel trapped. I'm working towards getting out of this mortgage and going to the country, living simple, making music, hiking, vlogging, and like you said, "just sitting". I want to sit by the river and just reflect, or have nothing on my mind. I need it desperately. You did a great job of expressing where you are, and it's inspiring.
I think there's real strength in coming to this realization. I've beat myself up for a long time and prioritized everything else but myself for many, many years. There comes a point when you realize that--this is life--to put it bluntly. Regardless of your beliefs of afterlife, etc--this is life right now and the one I'm experiencing right now. I need to live in a way that meets my needs and aligns with my core self. Shit is hard, though. I'm right there with you--not sure we'll figure it out, but the hope of finding what I'm looking for sustains me. Peace, brother.
Good luck finding your way. I worked 35 years in education and felt the same for many years. I never had the courage to find myself instead of going through the motions.
Everyone wants to do what they want to do. You should do what you want, but you'll need food, shelter, and any other necessities. You'll have to figure out how to meet your needs and do what you want to do. I very much relate. Hope you find your answers, and me too. ☮
Thanks, Steve. That's certainly a reality that will be faced. I'm willing to accept those challenges if what I'm doing aligns closer to myself. Peace, brother.
you're not crazy for dropping out. you might face some obvious consequences but the energy you get from following your path will give you resilience to figure those things out.
take care of yourself, and thanks for putting your feelings out there. It takes courage, and it matters more than you might realize. I have a feeling this is one of the best decisions you'll have ever made.
I'm a bit younger and work in healthcare, but I can relate to much of what you’re saying. Videos like this are so important because they reflect the experiences of many in society. There's more to life than just work-exploring the world is an exciting adventure and a great way to reset. Traveling helped me discover who I am, break out of my bubble, gain new perspectives, meet new people, and try new things. You’ve got seven years of teaching under your belt, so you have the experience to go back whenever you want. Take that leap of faith!
I don’t know who you are. But let me have a hug. We’re with you on this journey through life, man.
I noticed the increasing apathy even when I was a kid. It was as though, starting around the late 80's, there was this idea that it was 'cool to be bored', or not being interested in the world around you was a sign of superiority. It's gotten significantly worse over time. I don't understand it.
This comment has helped me not feel alone in that thought of people acting bored or dis interested. I can't take that cuz I know it's an act they put on cuz it does seem like the person is cool calm and collected. I'm a lot more flamboyant about how I take on the world and get excited about life. And I've been made fun of because of that.
I've just found you here on youtube. You caught my attention inmediately. I was also a teacher but now I take care of my little son who is autistic. I dont want to come back. Life is already hard for me. Have a nice trip in life🎉 send you good vibes from Chile ❤
Hey man, I just wanted to say I'm sorry, its heart breaking to hear how much the system is letting down good teachers like you that want to teach and that do care. The lack of respect for such an important role today is honestly astounding and horrific to witness.
Few things I would like to say:
1. No job or calling is ever worth destroying yourself over. You deserve joy, happiness and respect.
2. Sometimes the most important lessons we can learn is through journeying into something we really wanted to do and discovering that we don't want to do those things. You went in and gave it your all and you made the discovery that the current climate isnt something you agree with. And its ok to be sad and upset, to grieve over such things, but you have in turn learned what you DONT want to do and what you will not accept. Take those lessons with you into the future.
3. Allow yourself to be open and to recover. Allow yourself to love and make new discoveries. Take time to spend time with yourself and your loved ones.
I wish you all the best.
Can totally relate. Currently transitioning from working in public sector.
Romanian here, we feel the same, bro! What I've started doing is going to the gym, losing 50+ lbs, and started loving my own body once again. My clothes fit better, people have started complimenting me for my progress, and we'll see how my life will be in the future... Start with this!
Your video found me at the most appropriate time, and I just wanted to express my sincerest thank you, fellow "life dropout" .🌻 To add to that, while you may be unsure of the way ahead, might I encourage you to keep on going 🐢🌱.. keep figuring it out as you walk with one foot in front of the other. Despite not knowing much more than the content shared in this video, I'd say that you're certainly on the right track already. It's a noble act to pursue that which gives life more meaning, and you'll find such peace when you're able to leave behind all those unfortunate expectations society places on you. When the light seems to dim, take heart in the following - "where one door closes, another is surely to open before us". Keep your head toward the skies then friend, and delight in the things that bring you joy. The wonder and simplicity of life is out there.. don't let it pass you by. 🕊️ Well wishes good sir, and I look forward to your next video! 😊.. it's been a pleasure to have been but a mere listener. I hope you feel seen, and heard. 🌌
Thanks Claudia!
You are not a nobody! You have made very valuable achievements in your life thus far that you can and should be proud of.
I too was going through a rough patch in life (still am) and my psychologist/ therapist told me that it’s fine to reset and have as many off days or gap years as you need, you are human not a machine!
Some people may not understand your decisions or situations but that’s fine, only you can live your life no one else.
If someone looks at you and calls you lazy just for waking up in the morning and doing nothing else they can go F themselves imo….
Life is short but it’s never too late, do all the things you love with the people you love because the greatest human achievement is to be content and happy 😃
Boy, your content is great. REgarding what you say at 21:00, about being upset it took you 37 years to realize what you've realized: it's part of the journey, imo. You have to see the other side (doing what society wants, and not getting joy from it) in order to cherish your "awakening" more. But yea, you could have awoken sooner, but it takes significant effort to distance yourself from your conditioning, so don't beat yourself up too much about it... just my 2 cents, because I also have been struggling with this regret after my so-called "awakening" or how do you want to call it (basically what you're describing here in your channel).
God is speaking through the circumstances, calling you to himself.
Jesus loves the lowly and the small and came to call all those weary and tired in life.
He says 'Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28)
The joy of God's love is the answer. This is true happiness.
Jesus died for you because he valued you and loved you for who you are, what you need to do is rest in him.
Turn to him friend. Please read the New Testament and see he will speak to these exact feelings you are experiencing. 😊 Praying for you.
Yes, you are valuable and worthy for just being you. You're not your job.
Quitting the wrong thing can be the best thing you'll ever do. It opens the door to exploring new paths. Good luck on your journey!
Absolutely!
It shows a lot of bravery to be this honest about your dissatisfaction and your need to “switch off” for a bit. Good luck on your journey and I’d be interested to see what you do next.
I have a good friend who also got disillusioned with his teaching job (maths & physics). Years later I still don’t think he’s really figured out what his ultimate purpose is but he’s having plenty of interesting experiences in unusual places along the way while he tries to answer that question
Hart warming and honest openness. Stay strong buddy, you are a good person and have come far already. You seem the right type of person to teach kids. Hope you will find back the joy in life and being a teacher.
I appreciate that.
Went through that too the year before. Between teachers not being kind to kids or each other, admin and staff spreading rumors and ostricisng others, and kids not getting the mental health services they need, I lost all ambition to teach in an educational setting. I'm a lot happier being a life coach and soon to be counselor (heck, I was already doing this work as an aid). It's hard, but you'll get to the good again. Invest in yourself and always choose your health over anything.
Thank you for sharing such a personal story. You described your relationship with the education system as a "slap in the face", feeling disheartened about it.
But because you mentioned you do love teaching, and you intended to have a positive impact on students, I wonder if you may find a much better avenue using TH-cam (or other services) to launch your own personalized teaching platform. This way you can go directly to the students, and to put aside all the things you mentioned are the bane of your existence (meetings, micromanaging, administration). You may not need to work inside the education system.
Keep it up, good luck Steve!
Thank you for the kind words. :)
This was a great suggestion Jcut ~ I’m an educator in the middle of a “Midlife Dropout” as well, and when I get my bearings, I’ll probably go the self employment route with regard to teaching… I worked on an ESL teaching platform for a while, and although the pay was horrible, I had NO OTHER ISSUES. I then thought to myself; if it’s that easy, I could set up my own platform, and charge accordingly…. Thanks again for this spark of inspiration! ☀️
Understandable position. Taking some time for yourself and coming. back with fresh perspectives can mean a big difference
Its not working because people aren't seeing you and your value. Its not you. You need kindness all the time. Not occassionally. I hear you. I don't know why people can't just be kind to each other. You sound like an incredible teacher. The world is sick. Not you. ❤
My daughter stopped teaching and did a Masters in Peace and Conflict studies. She still sleeps alot. Recovering from teaching. She was a good teacher. I told her at school that her scores dont matter. Build a School of Kindness. 🎉 I have found the same experience in the Business world. People are largely unhappy.
I’ve been in teaching, I quit a few times. I shouldn’t have done it with my first school, years some thirty yrs ago, comparing it to today’s edu standards. I came back this September after teaching courses for adults and couldn’t stop thinking of running away. But what exactly am I moving myself to? I’ m dissilusioned now, I’ll be disappointed with myself soon, and wishing I had stayed, survived. Why though, without any hope for the better.
*Former* _teacher_ here. Not in USA (I'm in Europe). Quite literally: 70% - meetings, administration, more meetings, more more more administration, papers + 1001 online forms, grades, evaluations.... And then 30% (maybe... ...30% at best...) teaching, interacting w/ students...
Parents don't care about academia, knowledge, growing, expanding horizons 🙄
*They only care about A+'es . And management/administration cares only about students having straight A+'es*
you are somebody I like the ideal of traveling I have been doing it for a year now I love it.
I'm a lot like you, 39 year old teacher of 10 years, since I teach all five levels of a foreign language, I've always had a ridiculous amount of preps every day. It takes a toll on you for sure. Unfortunately I can't just up and quit, have a health condition that limits my mobility, teaching is the best gig I'll ever be able to manage.
We are in the world but not of it.
You're very sincere and I really relate to you. I'm pretty confused about the meaning of my life. Hope you can explore and find your meaning. Looking forward to your videos. Best wishes!
This is everything I'm going through, especially being sick to death of living in fear.
I started looking for places to rent and ended up applying to the peace corp. Teaching English in Liberia seems like a way better deal than teaching anything here.
iu feel you bruh
Consider learning an Asian language during this period that you are working on yourself. I feel like you are the kind of guy that would thrive (relative to here) in Asia.
I think there should be quotas in education: 50 per cent male teachers, 50 female. This would form more well rounded citizens. K 12.
Any teacher who doesn’t come to the conclusion that Education is a trashcan on fire is either completely brainwashed by the system or gaslit with toxic positivity.
Being a teacher is a terrible job.
The only thing that keeps us going is the hope of helping children and young people. Administration WILL NOT let us do that. At our school, teachers barely have time to use the restroom. I commend you for taking the time for yourself. The public needs to know how much teachers are severely being affected by the constraints of Administration. After teaching almost two decades in Oklahoma, I see the impact of severe poverty and a society who does not value education. They are literally insane here. The state superintendent is imposing bible mandates in every classroom. The parents are highly antagonistic towards the schools because the culture in Oklahoma doesn’t value education. It's so toxic.
You look how i feel mate.
Hey, I'm a nobody too 😐🙂
Money is a scam, its good for security, but it can't make you happy. Only relationships and experiences can make people happy.
If you have the means, go abroad, dude. Teaching abroad is always looking for qualified American teachers. Work-life balance is a little better. Your money goes further abroad.
go to Quartzite Arizona
This place sounds healing Terry… I’m curious 👀
What does that mean?
I think it's just the best way I can put into words the idea of leaving traditional life behind. I'm realizing I'm not particularly interested in living within the traditional confines that society has created. William Blake describes the idea of "mindforged manacles" as the sort of limitations we put on ourselves. I kind of view it like that but the limitations society puts on living true to our values and to ourselves.
A big hello from Russia. I'm 47. An English teacher, tutor actually. Never worked at school. I guess I'm living the life of my dreams. I love teaching so much. Yet, I can't say I'm happy. I am coming to the conclusion that it's not about your age, or social pressure, or job. It's about life. Once you were born, you can't expect to ever be happy. If you are more or less sane, you can't be happy....
On the other hand, I look at my colleagues working at school. I'm so sorry for them. Here in Russia it's just the same story. Teachers are underpaid, disrespected, work 24/7.
Anyway, hope you'll find some peace and quiet. Good luck to you! 🌳🍏🍀
@@catchcaughtcaught are you happy
@@zeerakshow Job wise - yes , I'm happy. I teach people from 4 to 70 years old. It's hard at times, but I love English, and I love teaching. I'm also a dance teacher, and a little a yoga teacher. So teaching is my life. But I'm single, so in this regard, I can't say I'm happy. But I look at my married friends with kids. Well, they have more reason to be happy. But are they? Well.... They have more reason to be happy, more distractions, but at the end of the day, they are as sad as me very often. Anyway, I wish everybody a good job and a good family!!
I so appreciate and respect your vulnerability in sharing this.
I have been feeling like dropping out but due to the loss of my Father figure four months ago. It’s like suddenly the world feels more in focus and I just want to make sure I’m living this one precious life in a way I can be proud of. 🤍
I’m excited to be able to share in your journey! Thank you for doing this.
That's basically where I'm at too. Life is too short (as cliche as that is). If you're in a place to be able to make that change physically, emotionally, and spiritually then I say go for it.
@@TheMidlifeDropout totally - I’m a stay at home mom with two young kids so I’m trying to think about I can do it without turning all our lives upside down 🙃 we’ll see!