You Can Always Start Over

Changing Careers

by Jess Phillips

One day, at 27 years old, I was sitting at my desk and it hit me. I was unhappy. I had what most would consider a great job. And don’t get me wrong, it was. I had worked my way up the corporate ladder from the front desk agent to Director of Sales at a Hyatt Hotel.

During my lunch break, I was scrolling through Instagram when I came across pictures of a college friend who was teaching English in Thailand at the time. Her pictures were breathtaking. It hit me instantly. The last time I was truly happy was when I lived in Italy during college. It was then and there that I decided to quit my job and travel.

Telling your parents that you are quitting your career after you began it is not the easiest of tasks. Luckily for me, my parents have supported me unconditionally my whole life, and for that I am forever grateful. One of my girlfriends jumped at the chance to come along, and we were off! After seven months of traveling South America, Southeast Asia, and New Zealand, we returned to the United States.

I pictured this trip coming with an epiphany. For me to meet someone so excited about me that they would tell me, “You know what you would be so good at? XYZ,” or, “I know someone who does that, let me put you in contact with them.” Needless to say, that didn’t happen. It was hard returning home still having no idea what I wanted to do with my life.

Months later, I realized that most people never know what they want. It was actually a blessing that I didn’t know because it allowed me to find Jennifer at Nest Realty and to start a new career in something that I truly enjoy. Real estate was never on my radar. Not because I wasn’t interested in it; it just wasn’t what I ever thought to do.

I have always had a love for homes. I grew up in upstate New York, where gorgeous 4,500 square foot homes live next to new, state of the art 2,500 square foot homes, so I love homes of all shapes and sizes. And I can spend hours watching Fixer Upper. But getting into this career has made me realize that I love homes for such a bigger reason.

Home is where the heart is. I have been fortunate enough to grow up in a family where being home is valued. Time with friends and family is priceless. Nothing makes me happier than having a house full of my loved ones. When sellers tell me their favorite memories in their homes it makes me smile. When buyers talk about their plans for their new home, I feel uncontrollable joy. Homes hold memories of the most treasured times of our lives. They also give comfort during those times of need. Being in real estate allows me to find that for others, and the joy that that brings is indescribable.

Jess Phillips is a Realtor with Nest Realty Atlanta. Her love for travel combined with her hospitality background make her adaptable, communicative, and ready for anything!

Photo credit for header image: Aaron Coury