In our inaugural podcast, "In Hindsight," I had the opportunity to interview and now share with you the incredible story of Crystal Chilcott, a former ESL teacher who transformed her life and the lives of others by embracing entrepreneurship. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination, adaptability, and the importance of investing in oneself.
Crystal's Challenges as an ESL Teacher
As a dedicated English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, Crystal faced numerous challenges, including constant illness, financial stress, and the burden of paying
for her own training and classroom supplies. Despite her passion for teaching, she found herself in a position where she needed to make a change.
Taking a Leap of Faith
Desperate for a better life, Crystal accepted a position as a financial writer, only to be laid off just four months later. It was in this moment of uncertainty that she discovered her true calling. With nothing to lose, Crystal decided to invest in herself and start her own business in affiliate marketing.
"If you're motivated to make it happen, it will happen."
Transitioning from the Classroom to Entrepreneur
In a recent interview with Dr. Melissa Bloom, founder of Expanse Strategists LLC, Crystal shared the lessons she learned while transitioning from teaching to entrepreneurship. She emphasized how her experience as a teacher had prepared her for the challenges of running a business, stating, "Teaching taught me so much about discipline, determination, and the importance of building relationships."
The Rise of Educators in Leadership
Crystal's story is not unique. According to a Forbes article, many former public school teachers are finding success as education entrepreneurs, earning more than they did as teachers (McDonald, 2022). These educators are leveraging their skills and experience to create innovative solutions and build thriving businesses.
Furthermore, a study by Neupane, Bhattarai, and Lowery (2023) found that personal traits such as risk-taking propensity, ambiguity tolerance, creativity/innovation, and locus of control were dominant factors in determining entrepreneurial success.
Overcoming Challenges and Building a Personal Brand
One of the biggest challenges Crystal faced when starting her business was learning how to market herself and build a personal brand. Through trial and error, she discovered the power of LinkedIn and now helps her clients navigate these same challenges.
Embracing Change and Pursuing Your Dreams
Crystal's story is a shining example of the transformative power of embracing change and pursuing your dreams. Her journey serves as an inspiration to anyone feeling stuck in their career or looking to make a change.
What's Holding You Back?
If you're ready to take control of your life and start building the future you've always dreamed of, there's no better time than now. As Crystal says, "If you're motivated to make it happen, it will happen."
Take the first step today and explore the possibilities that entrepreneurship has to offer. Who knows? You might just discover your true calling, just like Crystal did.
Ready to start your own entrepreneurial journey? Leave a comment below and share your biggest challenge or question. Let's support each other as we navigate this exciting new chapter in our lives.
You can contact Crystal the following ways:
References:
McDonald, K. (2022, November 3). Former public school teachers are earning more as education entrepreneurs. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/kerrymcdonald/2022/11/03/former-public-school-teachers-are-earning-more-as-education-entrepreneurs/?sh=4b3e1d6f7f1a
Neupane, S., Bhattarai, P. C., & Lowery, C. (2023). Entrepreneurial traits among teachers and owners of the institutional schools: An explanatory sequential mixed methods study. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-2947032/v1
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