The lesson I learned after 15 years of job searching

Growing up, I believed education was the ultimate key to success. My parents, teachers, and society echoed the mantra: study hard, get good grades, and a good job will follow. It was the golden rule, repeated so often that I never questioned it. I threw myself into academics, excelling in exams, earning accolades, and dreaming of a future where my hard work would pay off.

But life doesn’t always align with expectations. After graduation, I stepped into the job market, brimming with optimism. I was confident that companies would be eager to hire someone with my qualifications. But as the months turned into years, the opportunities I hoped for never materialized.

In 2023, I turned 38, a milestone that forced me to confront a painful reality: I had spent 15 years “tarmacking” – endlessly searching for jobs that no one was willing to offer me. My academic achievements, once a source of pride, had become a burden. I was overqualified for some roles and underqualified for others. Every rejection chipped away at my confidence until I reached a point where regret took hold of me.

The Regrets I Carry

Looking back, I can pinpoint several mistakes that contributed to my long struggle. I regret not exploring practical skills alongside my formal education. While I had the theoretical knowledge, I lacked the hands-on experience that employers value so highly.

I also regret overlooking the importance of networking. I believed that a good resume would speak for itself, but I didn’t realize how crucial it was to build relationships in my field. By the time I understood this, I was already behind.

Most of all, I regret how narrowly I defined success. For years, I believed that success meant a prestigious job title, a steady paycheck, and the validation of others. I never stopped to ask myself what truly made me happy or fulfilled.

The Lessons I Learned

If I could go back in time, I would tell my younger self to approach life differently. These are the lessons I’ve learned, the hard way:

1. Diversify Your Skills: The job market doesn’t reward degrees alone. Learn practical skills that make you adaptable. Whether it’s coding, carpentry, or digital marketing, having a unique skill set can set you apart. Education should go hand-in-hand with real-world applications.


2. Start Small: Don’t wait for the perfect job. Take small steps. Internships, part-time roles, or even volunteering can open unexpected doors. Sometimes, it’s the small beginnings that lead to the biggest opportunities.


3. Network Early: Build connections before you need them. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and seek mentorship. The people you know can often make a bigger difference than the grades you earned.


4. Value Creativity and Entrepreneurship: If the job doesn’t exist, create it. The world is full of problems waiting for solutions. Turn your hobbies or passions into a side hustle, and don’t underestimate the power of innovation.


5. Measure Success Differently: Success isn’t just about money or titles. It’s about growth, impact, and personal fulfillment. Define success on your own terms, not based on what others expect.



Moving Forward

Now, I share my story to inspire others not to make the same mistakes. Education is important, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Balance academic goals with practical experience, and don’t let societal expectations dictate your path.

The world is changing fast, and the skills that truly matter aren’t always taught in the classroom. Adaptability, creativity, and resilience are just as important as any degree.

If you’re feeling lost, remember: every mistake is a lesson, and every setback is a chance to rewrite your story. Start today. Take one small step toward a future you can be proud of. It’s never too late to change your trajectory.

Let my story be a guide, not a warning. Don’t wait 15 years to realize your potential. The sooner you take control of your journey, the closer you’ll be to finding your true purpose.