Navigating the Fear and Anxiety of Leaving the Classroom [With 8 Proven Steps]
Jun 19, 2023
It is all too common to experience fear and anxiety around the idea of leaving the classroom. Whether it’s the fear of the unknown, financial uncertainty, or a sense of loyalty to your students and colleagues, the decision to leave can be overwhelming.
Before you let your fear and anxiety get the best of you, I am here to tell you that leaving the classroom doesn’t mean you’re giving up on your passion for education. It means you are carefully choosing to redirect your energy to a different world-building role. You’re growing and sometimes, growth is uncomfortable.
If you find yourself saying “yep, that’s me! I want something different but I’m afraid…”, here are some battle-tested tips for navigating your feelings:
- Recognize Your Emotions
It’s important to acknowledge your feelings of fear and anxiety, and to understand that they’re a natural response to change. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions and try to avoid self-judgment or criticism. Seriously- the choice to seek a job elsewhere can be difficult enough. Don’t punish yourself by feeling bad for feeling bad. - Identify Your Reasons for Leaving
Be clear about why you’re considering leaving the classroom. This could be due to burnout, a desire for a change in career path, or a need for more work-life balance. Understanding your reasons for leaving will anchor you to your commitment to move on and seek a role that aligns with what you need in life while still making an impact on the world. It’ll also help you make a more informed decision not only about when to leave but also what your next role should be.
Not sure where to start on your own career transition? Take our FREE ElevatED Educator Career Quiz to explore roles that best match your wants and needs. - Explore Your Options
There are tons of career paths that utilize the skills and experience gained from teaching. Research other professions that align with your interests and values, and consider reaching out to professionals in those fields for informational interviews.
To explore today’s most popular roles for transitioning teachers, check out our Hottest Jobs for Teachers in 2024 series. From public relations to tech and training to finance, I’ve got the most popular jobs and their salary ranges ready for you. - Build A Support Network
Leaving the classroom can be a lonely experience. Build a network of supportive colleagues, mentors, and friends who can offer advice and encouragement during this transition.
Start by signing up for the ElevatED Careers Newsletter (click on the link, scroll to the bottom of the page, sign up. Easy as that! ) You’ll get actionable advice from supportive, transitioned educators and the hottest job postings delivered directly to you. The best part – it’s free! As a transitioned educator, I understand how busy you are. Let me do the heavy lifting for you. It is my mission, and business, to make your life easier. - Address Financial Concerns
Leaving the classroom may come with temporary financial uncertainty, so it’s important to have a plan in place. Evaluate your current financial situation to help you decide if you can leave teaching before landing your next role or if you should wait to be hired elsewhere before saying goodbye. You will also need to consider what your non-negotiable salary expectations are in order for you to feel comfortable saying YES to a job offer.
- Prioritize Self-Care
The process of trying to leave the classroom can be a stressful experience, so it’s important to prioritize self-care. I cannot stress this enough - take time to exercise, meditate, or engage in other activities that bring you joy and help you manage stress. - Seek Professional Development Opportunities
Continuing education can help you stay up-to-date with industry trends and open up new career opportunities. Consider attending conferences, workshops, or pursuing independent learning to better prepare yourself for your dream role outside of the classroom. - Embrace the Unknown
Leaving the classroom can be scary, but it can also be an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Embrace the unknown and be open to new experiences and opportunities.
Leaving the classroom can be a difficult decision, but it doesn’t have to be a lonely or scary process. Let yourself be guided by this exploration and seize the opportunity to create a future that is even better than you’ve ever envisioned. Take one step at a time towards your goal- stay focused on building the life you want: a more fulfilling career that is both stable and impactful.
