The universe won't give you what you can't handle.

Storytime!

A mini thread, let's go!

It all started in May 2019.

I don't think many of you know that I give tuition to kids as a side job!

I tutor Secondary 1/2 students in Math and Science.

I used to teach at a Sunday school for free until, in mid-Sep 2019, I got my first paid student!

Yes, I was thrilled!

Doing something I enjoy and being able to make money from it, the best of both worlds.

I charged $20/hr and usually, it's a 1.5-hour session twice per week which means I get paid $60!

Then I thought "How can I make more money?"

Answer to it was a no brainer.

Option A: Charge more per hour
Option B: More students

I went with Option B and so in Oct 2019, I found 2 more clients through word of mouth from my previous client!

The results of my first student were social proof!

My rates remained the same, not too pricey nor too cheap which appealed to many.

So I was constantly on the lookout for more students.

Then in Dec 2019, another 2 more signed up!

I was elated, I swear!

I thought to myself, "Oh shit, I'm actually good at this"

I swear that's the worse thought I could have.

It went downhill.

I burned out, I realized I was lethargic and unmotivated.

The quality I was giving to my students dropped.

It's a HUGE red flag!

Yes, the money was good but it's unethical if I can't provide quality.

My student's results are correlated to the quality of the teachings I'm giving them.

I pulled the plug in Feb 2020, dropped 3 students.

Yes, it's tough.

I realized I can only do so much.

Maybe because I'm a noob, I can't handle too much stress.

2 students were perfect for me, I had enough time for myself.

I can work on whatever I want.

Ah, that sweet medium.

Long story short:

I simply wasn't ready to take on 5 students, it backfired on me.

Earning money is good but I can't compromise on my student's learning.

I learned to prep myself well and never take on more than what I can handle.

Also, to add on,

I underestimated the amount of 'me time' I needed.

Frankly speaking, it was until this incident that made me realize how much I value my 'me time'!

So a tip to all:

Figure out how much 'me time' you need!

You'll thank me later.

If you enjoyed it and read till this point,

I would appreciate a RT to spread awareness!

Some people out there might be able to learn a thing or two from this lesson of mine!

Thank you!