Choosing the Right Path
Over two years ago I made a bold move - I left a high-paying sales job because I was unhappy. When I initially accepted the position, I knew there was a chance I wouldn’t find fulfilment. However, after coming from a lower-paying role, what I valued most at the time was earning more.
Within a week of resigning, I had three job offers on the table, and I knew whichever path I chose had to align more with my Ikigai; my career needed more balance.
Here were my options:
Offer #1: Casino Croupier – This role offered a completely new career direction, full of learning potential. However, it didn’t align with my long-term goals.
I aced the interview, the only concern being I was too overqualified for the entry-level role, despite every croupier starting at this level. I reassured them that I’ve never been one to shy away from starting at the bottom and proving my value.
Offer #2: Bartender at a Top 25 UK Bar – This opportunity had all the prestige, excitement and fast pace my younger self loved - flare, intense atmosphere, and the chance to woo guests with my knowledge.
But after years in the industry, I realized it wouldn’t provide the learning or growth I craved, and the late nights had already worn me out.
Offer #3: Head Bartender at a Restaurant – While not as exciting as the other options, this role would allow me to develop existing skills and, most importantly, provide a consistent work routine - something I hadn’t had since I was 15.
This stability would allow me to dedicate more time on my love for building websites, as well as working with clients I had as a hospitality consultant, bringing me closer to long-term happiness and fulfilment.
Ultimately, offer #3 not only paid well, but allowed me to pursue more of my personal and professional goals.
The easy option would have been taking the more exciting or comfortable roles, but I had to ask myself - would that just be repeating the same mistake?
Below: Lemon Curd Brandy Crusta
Industrial & Software Engineer, CLSSGB | Ex Boeing
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