Dear Ellie,
I spent years training to be an accountant, then me and my partner moved, we live in a remote village, but its busy with tourists. I was going to start looking for a new job but then I noticed a card in the local village shop asking for a book keeper.
During my interview the owner asked if I wanted to do the book keeping and do some hours in the shop, so I said yes. I absolutely love it, I get to chat all day to people, the days go really fast and I have met so many new people. It works with the kids and school, so I am really happy.
A few month ago we went back to Middlesbrough for a family party and everyone kept asking me what I was doing now, I told them I work in the village shop, they either laughed or said yeah, but its just till you find something else. When I told them no, I love it, they say what a waste, you worked hard to be an accountant. I never really liked being an accountant, it was just what I did. My partner says he doesn't care, do what makes me happy. We are going to a wedding in a few weeks, and I am dreading the looks I will get from people, like I have failed. What do I do?
Sarah, 34
Whitby
Dear Sarah,
Isn't it great when you actually enjoy going to work, not everyone has that. People are probably more interested because you moved, so want to know what you are doing as they haven't seen you, so I am guessing that is the focus of the conversation and that will pass.
Do nothing, tell them you work in a shop and that you love it, end of. Just remember how lucky you are to have found a job you love. This sounds like others having expectations for you, priorities change, work can become more of less important, for some people its status, for some its money, for others its enjoyment. You have enjoyment, go with it!