Hi, I left teaching to run my own business 3 years ago. Over the past few months I've really missed lots of aspects of my old teaching job and am considering giving up the business and returning to teach. I was going to take my time to weigh up all the pros and cons, but a job was advertised which I applied for, and have an interview on Friday.
The business is successful, although I don't earn as much as I did. The first few years were great because I was learning all the time, but now I'm a little bit bored and lonely (I work on my own). I'm also acutely aware that there is no security, no earnings if off sick and poor pension - all things that I'd have if I went back to teaching. Running a business and being self employed comes with it's own stresses and responsibilities.
I didn't hate teaching when I left, but I do remember how stressed I was and how hard I had to work. I also remember the daily battles with pupils who behaved badly, but know I made a positive difference to the lives of many pupils who were engaged. I always used to refer to it as binge working in that I'd work my socks off during term time but you would have the holidays to enjoy.
Have I just forgotten how bad teaching was and am absolutely crazy to think about going back?