This is a great story, Bill. In fact, I forgot that you were a lab man in your former life. 😉 You are now doing what you’re meant to be doing.

Unfortunately, I was breathing in too much of what I was fabricating. Yes, I used masks and suction but stuff still made it through, and I was developing asthma, so I had to do something. My father-in-law owned a mortgage company, but it was a commission only and I had to market for my own customers. I couldn’t use my current customer base because it would be difficult to convince a dentist that after doing your crown and bridge work for the past ten years that I was also an expert mortgage loan officer.

I tried to do both for about 6 months but I wasn’t very good at either. It wasn’t until I was totally committed to the mortgage industry that I began to thrive. 30+ years now couldn’t be happier, it’s funny though, I still get to solve unique problems daily.

Nickey, it’s so hard to feel like you don’t enjoy your work everyday, and also to know you’re not getting compensated enough for it. It’s hard to be a dentist, and most people can’t do what you do. Remember that if you can do this work that most people can’t do, then you can do anything. It’s just a matter of exploring and getting curious about your options. If you’re on Facebook, you should join my private group for dental professionals only. It’s called Dentist Side Gigs. You’ll get more support there too.

Hannah, I’m so glad you found us too. It is so helpful to know that what you’re feeling is not uncommon! If you can try little things/ small steps to explore what you really love, that is a good way to integrate it into the realities of having to work. You have some big changes on the horizon with your move, so it will take focus, but you can do it!

Hi, I’m basically you ! Like literally every word you said, I was gonna type it. So I’m wondering did you go on that world tour? How did things turn out for you? Do you think it’s a good idea for me to start traveling as well? I’m just 1 year into my dental practice and I hate it. I thought a long break from it all would help alongside traveling and making new connections, exploring, etc.

Hi Nt, Yes!! There are a lot of us out there. it is a tough decision to make and a big process to go through, and all the guilt and worrying is a normal part of it, but you can do this. If you want to hear other stories, I have a series of posts on this blog under the “Celebrating New Beginnings” title. You can put that in the search bar. Another place you might look on the blog is under the section titled “My Journey Out of Dentistry,” Or I have a section on Posts that share tips on how to change. You can find them on the main Blog page here: https://lolabeescareercoaching.com/blog/

Keep us posted as to how this shapes up for you!