I don’t regret studying medicine but if I could go back and talk to a 17 year old me - the version of me filling out UCAS forms and trying to make the “right” decision - I would tell her a few things.

These are all things that would have made the unconventional path I've found myself following, a lot easier. 

• You can love helping people but at the same time not love the system you’re working in....this will make you feel conflicted inside (& that’s okay).

• It is a consuming career but it doesn’t have to become your whole identity. You are more than your job title.

• It isn’t a “right of passage” to burnout & it doesn’t mean your “career isn’t right” for you. It’s a sign that something isn’t working - but working harder won't make the problem go away.

• It doesn’t make you ungrateful if you want more or something different... you’re allowed to dream beyond the walls of a hospital.

• It’s okay to change your mind. The younger version of you didn’t know everything.... she chose the best she could & you’re allowed to choose again.

Ultimately, I would want to remind 17 year old me that it is okay to grow, evolve and question.

There will be things you are good at but they don’t mean they are your forever things. 

There will be things you want to do now but not wanting to do them tomorrow doesn’t make you a failure. 

There will be things that you learn about your previous decisions that might mean you want to change your decision.

These thoughts apply to so many aspects of life but especially our career choices.

I know there are lots of you who follow me on social media who have found themselves in the middle of their own career identity crisis….. you really aren’t alone & you really aren’t broken.

You can always drop me an email (elle@gabrielletodd.com) or send me a message on Instagram @ellejeantodd if there is something you want to talk about or thoughts you want to get off your chest! 

Did you know I offer 1:1 coaching to help others make changes in their lives? This can be related to careers, starting a business or forming healthier habits. Please just send me an email directly to elle@gabrielletodd.com if this is something you feel you would benefit from & would like to learn more about.