I made a major career pivot.
After years of teaching and creating content around English education, I stepped fully into the world of operations, automation, and business transformation. I took on a full-time role at a small company, and that experience has quietly but completely reshaped the way I think about impact.
I didn't just change jobs. I shifted how I show up, what I build, and the kinds of problems I solve.
This post is to say: It's absolutely fine to wear many hats, and this is how it has worked out for me.
From Teaching to Tech
The transition wasn't overnight. I started by identifying what I was already good at - breaking down complex concepts, creating systematic approaches to learning, and helping people achieve their goals. These skills turned out to be incredibly transferable.
What I learned in teaching that applies everywhere:
- How to explain complicated things simply
- The importance of meeting people where they are
- Building systems that scale (lesson plans → workflows)
- Patience with the learning process
The Power of "Just Start"
Instead of spending months planning the perfect career transition, I started small:
- Automation projects - I began automating repetitive tasks in my teaching work
- Side projects - Built small tools that solved real problems I encountered
- Learning in public - Documented my journey and mistakes
- Real client work - Took on small projects to gain experience
The key was treating every problem as a learning opportunity rather than a roadblock.
What "Wearing Many Hats" Actually Means
People often say you should "focus on one thing," but in small companies and startups, versatility is valuable. Here's what I've learned about being multi-skilled:
- Be the bridge - Connect different departments and translate between technical and business needs
- Fill the gaps - Take on tasks that fall between traditional roles
- Stay curious - Every new challenge is a chance to develop another skill
- Know when to specialize - Understand which skills to deepen vs. which to keep surface-level
The Reality Check
This path isn't always smooth. There are days when you feel like you're not an expert in anything. But here's what I've discovered: being adaptable and willing to learn is often more valuable than being perfect at one thing.
The companies that have valued me most are the ones that needed someone who could wear multiple hats effectively, not someone who was narrowly specialized.
What's Next
I'm continuing to build at the intersection of education, automation, and business operations. Each project teaches me something new, and I'm constantly surprised by how skills from teaching continue to inform everything I build.
If you're considering a similar pivot, my advice is simple: start building something, anything, today. The path reveals itself as you walk it.