From Teaching to Thriving: The Eye-Opening Catalyst of Career Pivots

In my journey from the classroom to the stage, from teaching to advocating, one truth stands out: the foundational skills we develop early in our careers can be the key to successfully pivoting in new and exciting directions.

While I’m no longer in the classroom, I’ve been incredibly blessed to reach thousands of children around the world—especially through my children’s book, What I Can Be Is Up To Me. Recently, at the Theta Phi Alpha Convention, where I was honored with the Siena Medal, I had the privilege of sharing this book with a group of inspiring collegiate and alumnae sorority women, including many current and future teachers. This experience was a powerful reminder of the lasting influence educators have on shaping minds and futures.

But here’s the eye-opening idea: pivoting in our career journeys is easier and more exciting when we lean on the foundational skills we’ve already built. My path has taken me far from where I began, but the core lessons I learned while preparing to be a teacher have carried me through every new challenge.

How Foundational Skills Make Career Pivots Possible

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned from my own career pivots is that it’s not about starting over; it’s about applying what you already know in new ways. Here’s how some of the core skills I developed as a teacher have helped me navigate my career pivots with confidence and purpose:

1. Adaptability: As a teacher, I learned to tailor my approach to meet the needs of different learners. That adaptability has been crucial in my journey—from guiding my children through their blindness diagnoses to advocating for others on a global stage. Every pivot requires a willingness to adjust, but when you already know how to adapt, change becomes an opportunity, not an obstacle.

2. Communication: Teaching taught me the importance of clear, effective communication. Whether I’m speaking to students, educators, or government officials, the ability to simplify complex ideas has been key to making meaningful connections. This skill, honed in the classroom, is now one of my most valuable assets as a public speaker and author.

3. Empathy: Great leaders, like great teachers, understand the value of empathy. The ability to connect with others on a deeper level—whether it's children, parents, or professionals—has helped me build strong, impactful relationships. Whether I’m sharing my story of thriving through blindness or speaking at events, empathy is always at the core of my message.

Leadership Beyond the Classroom

My time in college (a gagillion years ago) as President of Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity (Eta Gamma chapter) also gave me an extra boost in leadership skills, which has helped me navigate every pivot. Leading a collegiate sorority chapter was an early crash course in managing people, solving conflicts, and building community—all skills that continue to shape my leadership style today.

The Power of Pivots

One of the most exciting aspects of my career has been sharing my message with new educators in training. These are the individuals preparing to shape the next generation, and I’m always thrilled to encourage them to embrace their journey with confidence. The skills they’re learning now—adaptability, communication, empathy—will not only serve them in the classroom but will also empower them to succeed in any role they choose.

The truth is, pivoting doesn’t have to be scary. When we rely on the foundational skills we’ve already mastered, change becomes less daunting and more of an adventure. Whether you’re stepping into a new leadership role, switching industries, or finding yourself on a path you didn’t expect—lean on what you know. You may be surprised at how easily those skills transfer.

Embrace the Pivot

If you’re facing a pivot in your career, my advice is simple: take the skills you’ve already honed and apply them in new ways. Those foundational skills can give you the confidence to take on new challenges and the flexibility to thrive in new roles. And trust me—there’s nothing more exciting than watching those skills help you succeed in ways you never imagined.

And for all of the folks preparing to be the next gneration of teachers, THANK YOU and enjoy the journey!

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