Need input re: big decision
I'm almost 54 years young & recently retired. I've always loved 2 things: dog training and exercise. I started studying to be a personal trainer but am having misgivings. Looking around, it seems like it's a young person's career & there is lots of competition for clients which breeds back stabbing.
I was approached by THE premier dog trainer in town, (possibly the Southwest,) and asked if I would like to apprentice with her. She has a thriving business and several dog trainers, but wants somebody with "integrity". I've trained & shown in obedience for 30 years & I love it. I'm really good with dogs & I can get along with anybody. I've worked with her with my own dog for over a year so I know she's the real deal.
So, there's my dilemma. I have old baggage that says, "You stick with what you started." But this has dropped into my lap suddenly & it seems like a gift I shouldn't refuse.
Sometimes quitting is the bravest thing.
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Dogmama
I have old baggage that says, "You stick with what you started."
Man we've got a lot of weird hang-ups & bad habits in this country. Clean your plate. Don't quit what you started.
Ugh. In grad school I saw so many people just get their PhD because, well, they started it and aught to finish it. Nevermind that they were miserable and didn't intend to use their degree anyway. They'd stick it out for years to get 'er done. Utter fear about what to do next is what motivated them to stick with it, I think.
Quitting grad school seemed to actually be the more difficult, brave and smart decision. Only a select few who recognized grad school wasn't their thing had the cajones to walk away and say What's next?
You already know what's next.
"Don't quit what you started"
My parents drilled that into me, whilst my step-father spent big $$ on fleeting hobbies like scuba diving, archery, etc.
Then somebody told me that I had the right to change my mind. Of course, I understood that from the neck up - but the neck down said different.
So, it's been very hard for me to admit that personal training might not be what I want, having spent money and many many hours of study. Maybe I should have looked harder at the profession. I have learned so much, though, about exercise, muscle function, anatomy, etc. - all things that hold my interest. I'll get my cert because I'm very close and who knows - maybe someday I'll use it. But not now.