[cafemaddy podcast] ep.7 I Quit My Dentist Job

The usual Cafe Maddy Podcast is paused this week because maddy went through a major life crisis. Here's the tea.
Thank you everyone for being so kind and encouraging. I wanted to tell this story for so long, and glad to be able to share with you. One day we'll look back at this video and laugh, right?
xx
maddy
music in this video:
Okonomiyaki by mr.hong: • okonomiyaki (feat. caf...
🎈Song : Daystar - Odd, isn’t it? / • ✨샛별 - Odd, isn’t it?✨(...
🎈Song : Daystar - May your night be at peace /
• ✨샛별 - May your night b...
🎈Song : Daystar - My small world / • ✨샛별 - My small world✨(...
🎈Song : Daystar - When I opened my eyes to your voice, it was spring..🌸 / • ✨샛별 - 그대 목소리...

[@oxfordbambooshootify]

I quit my job as a doctor too recently. I was severely burnt out and felt I was at the breaking point of my mental and emotional health so I made the same decision as you did. The day I submitted my resignation it rained a storm and I rode home in the rain crying underneath my helmet and it felt as if the skies cried with me

i'm having the same thoughts right now. what do you plan to do next?

[@UnitaryInstinct]

following this thread

[@ScorpioMystik07]

Hey guys doctor here too, same boat! Burned out since Covid. What do you plan to do next? Am sick of explaining to others too but my mental and physical health comes first.

[@ThAshleable]

Following

[@doctoravi]

@@ScorpioMystik07 I started leaning into a passion of mine on the side. Created an online course/business and looking to grow that! It lights me up whenever I am working on it - looking to that as a sign!

I can totally understand this. Not a Korean but a Indian we have the same expectation from our parents and it’s so stressful to live up to their and society’s expectations.

I FELT THE SAME but I didn’t quit my job. I just cut my hours to 4 days a week. That made life much happier… suddenly I had Friday free to have fun .

[@la381]

​@electrictroy2010 don't compete for attention by comparing yourself to someone else. That's toxic.

[@bunnywavyxx9524]

@@la381 no I was thinking the same, one could work part time

[@mylene_b]

same, it's the immigrant mentality

[@CafeMaddy]

Thank you guys always!! for being so kind and supportive 😭💜 i was in this limbo for the longest time, hesitating and stalling. But every day of it was so necessary for me to reach a point of making a decision. So if you are in the thick of it, I assure you you are exactly where you are supposed to be, and the hard times will bring u to a better place :)

[@judylee3031]

Good for you. Being first gen Korean is hard but you really have to do what makes you happy. So glad you made the right choice! Be happy Maddy! ❤️🙏

You go, Maddy! You thought about it, prayed about it, and listened to God's gentle whisper. You made a brave choice! 💜 As a fellow Korean and believer, I'll be praying for you as you begin this new chapter in your life. 😊

[@ing0589]

Do what you enjoy friend. You are a kind and very intelligent person. You will find that the online world is scary but once you find that niche, you’re right about how you think about it, it’s ok to fail. You can continue to grow. I’m working on doing what you’re doing. From the outside, I’m very excited and happy for you. Congratulations!!🎊🎈🎉

Ive been feeling the same way too! i didnt know there were others feeling the way i did

[@jeong-minhwang5909]

I came across this video randomly but I am so glad I did. I am a Junior in college but what you said in the video spoke to my SOUL. I grew up in almost the same environment as you described in the video: Korean, conservative, first generation immigrant. My parents idealized stability...and I have learned to do the same. But slowly I was beginning to realize I was never really happy. And things I loved I was discouraged to pursue as a career. Interests remained as hobbies! I can't believe another person articulated exactly how I grew up and felt. Honestly, I feel less crazy. I thought I was being ridiculous. But this video made me realize pursuing something out of norms in my parents eyes IS NOT RIDICULOUS OR CRAZY. I told to this myself half heartedly once... but hearing from you wow dam it just got it to 98%. I think God said I needed to watch you Unnie. Thank you so much. God bless you.

[@Doobydobap]

i love every second of this episode-- thank you for sharing Maddy

[@viviindriyani5485]

Hello dooby😍

[@CafeMaddy]

Thank u tina ilysm 💜💜

[@caliehuynh2206]

My favorite KZbinrs ❤️ dooby & maddy

[@denilune3503]

I know I’m so late but I just wanted to say that both of you guys are my inspiration.✨🙏🏻🤍

[@thecookingshorts]

oh dooby is here too haha

Thank you for this, Maddy. I quit my job 6 months ago and still haven't got another job. I expected it, I quit in the middle of a pandemic where everyone got laid off. I know it is the best decision because I started to not be able to sleep at night thinking about work, crying on my way to and from work, I was miserable. But again I am struggling financially, watching other people very-put-together life on social medias doesn't help either. Here's a reminder to everyone and also myself that putting you and your mental health first is the right thing to do, you can't buy health with money. Wish me luck in getting a really good job soon :)

You were so brave making a decision for your own good , and i'm sure you'll get plenty of opportunities where you get to live the life you want and actually be happy ! Sending you all my best wishes❤️🍀🍀

It's been months since you commented this, but I hope you were able to find a job that you like and that you're in a better place❤❤

@gellichan09 Thank you for the kind words 💕 I actually got a job but quit after a month because I couldn't take it. That made me realised it's not just the job, it's me. I need help. So I went to a Dr got diagnosed with anxiety :> I am focusing on my master's and trying to get better so all good! Wishing you all good things you wish for me plus a million more 🌟

@Alya Ayob I hope u get better. I struggle with my mental health too and I know it's not easy. U got this, everything will work out for ur good. Sending u lots of love.

[@ysnp6956]

Mental health is important. If the job had you crying on the way to and from there, it's the right decision to quit. Very-put-together life people post on social media is hard to look at when you're struggling but all those people have their own battles to fight or have doubts too. I stopped paying attention to what people post on social media because I learned that sometimes people only post things they want others to see and keep the rest out of public sites. I hope you are doing well.

As a final year dental student that's been fighting this degree through blood and so much tears for the past 7 years, not having the passion my colleagues do and has always feared not enjoying Dentistry after graduation, this hits SO close to home. I absolutely LOVE cooking, exploring and experiencing new things, it's the only things that really make me happy so by the end of this video I was in literal tears😭. I'm SO HAPPY for you🎉🥳!! ThisDentistry life is tough and it takes so much courage to do what you did but you did it anyway. You made that leap for the sake of your own happiness and I admire that so much. A few weeks from final DDS and your video gave me so much hope and comfort that even if I end up hating Dentistry I CAN do something else that makes me happy too. Thank you so much for sharing your experience😭❤

I FELT THE SAME but I didn’t quit my job. I just cut my hours to 4 days a week. That made life much happier… suddenly I had Friday free to have fun .

[@oluwaninsola4798]

I am a dentist , an NHS dentist I am very very miserable I am quite depressed at the moment I cannot tell you how bad my experience has been, it’s the grace of God that I have survived this far I am definitely going to do something about it

How are you doing now? I hope you’re doing better lately

💪

[@marrr2563]

Good luck and you can definitely do it 💪💪💪

[@EmilyLe2909]

Hey! We’re all rooting for you ❤

why did you become a dentist?

[@famousamos]

Deep down, you gotta go with your passion. Being a free spirit creator, going into a 9 to 5 is life draining. I know because I left my six figure (not to brag) corporate career to do KZbin full time. Koreans do love stability but that's a part of the old generation's mindset. Good to hear your story because some nights I question if I made the right decision. But ultimately, happiness matters more than RSUs, 401k, etc.

The part where you said “The moment I handed my two week notice I felt like I would never be the same person again” was exactly how I felt when I quit my 9-5 to become a freelancer. You’ll be okay Maddy ☺️

[@zen_mindset1]

Because freedom is true happiness!!

[@doctoravi]

"this is not living" This was an incredible episode and story. I am on my path to doing the same. It is inspiring to see others lean into their passion and not look back! So happy for you Maddy!

[@Relativetoyou]

Hey Maddy, I completely relate to you. I’m a dentist and Asian. Ever since COVID I have been burning out just like you and the toxicity of dentistry overall. The stability of dentistry or honestly any job traps you. I’m so glad you found a passion that generate an income. I would love to do something I’m passionate but I still looking for my passion. This video honestly inspires me to look for something else! Thank you!

[@K.etanak]

Me too.I really can relate that. As an asian person,I have been influenced by social's expectations,and now I am a 3-year student majoring in electrical engineering.I always wanted to be an artist tho.

[@lullalalla8891]

I am about to become a dentist. Could you please warn me on what type of toxicity you girls are talking about? Just to be prepared ahahah

@lulla lalla ayy same here hahaha. Getting FONMO now. Fear Of Not Missing Out

[@doctoravi]

I'm with you Clara! Start by creating some SPACE and TIME to find your passion. It will become very clear and when it does - lean into it and lean in HARD!

[@emilyau8023]

Rather have stability than not having enough in retirement and have to work as an elder.

[@Forest14449]

I’m a pharmacist and an immigrant as well. I can relate so much to how you felt. My burn out was extreme and I quit after working for 8 years, just as I was pregnant with my second baby. I’m really living life now as a stay at home mom. I honestly couldn’t be happier. Cheers to us !

[@cuttugirl7629]

I finished medical school in 2020. I’m so burnt out right now. As a junior, fy1/FY2 doctor my work timings are horrible. I’m on call (24-30h shifts) once during the weekdays, and on most weekends. I have no time for myself or my family. The atmosphere at the hospital is so toxic, i feel like do we as doctors all hate each other? The consultants hate the registrars and the regs hate the interns, it’s exhausting. And I really really want to quit, but I have no other life skills, and I feel so so stuck. So proud of you for being able to quit and move on. It’s a daunting and scaring thought, and to work on it requires a lot of courage.

[@soulfulvibesandmusic2423]

Do think doctor (the career) is overhyped especially by Asian parents/society in general. It is a very hard and stressful path I feel like. I'm a pre med and its seems people don't understand how hard being a doctor is and how it isn't a quick rich career? Also so proud of you for handling that much of work it is a lot!!

Hi there. I understand exactly what you are going through. I went through the same. My foundation years were pure hell! Overworked, long hours, toxic environment. At one point I felt if I don’t quit I will go into severe depression. I suggest you take a year out after F2. Rest, refresh, recharge and re-think. That what’s I did and that was a life saver! (ended up taking two years…so take as much time as you need until you are mentally, physically prepared to go back) Remember that our skills are transferrable, so if you decide you want to leave, there are loads of non-medical job options. Just know that things do get better and there are specialties that don’t do weekends/long hours, with great work environment. I ended up choosing one of those. I am now a consultant and I love my job. Put your mental health first, do your research and most importantly, do what makes you happy. You will be fine. All the best Xx

[@ogechiagada6213]

@Christine thanks for sharing. Planning on attending medical school. What specialty are you in?

@ogechi Agada Histopathology. All the best with medical school.

Id hate everyone if i had 24h shifts as well. It'd be worker abuse anywhere else, i don't understand why it's a thing in medicine

Quit my job as a dentist too! Honestly, it was the happiest moment in my life! Moved to to the states and now looking for a new perspective.

[@markqq4487]

And what job did u choose after? 🥰

[@amandaparkerdesign5488]

When I was 28 I did the same!! Quit my interior design job and went back to school for glass 😂 it was so necessary and amazing. Sometimes a reset is needed!!

I feel you, I've quit my career as a lawyer after a single year because the burnout was crazy. Society wastes so much talent by making jobs that require so much specialization simply toxic to work in. So much unpaid overtime just to keep your employment.

[@TeenyThainy]

I’m a dentist too and I really admire you for taking this leap of faith. The great thing about our job is we always can go back to it. Congratulations for following your passion!

Maddy, I’m so proud of you! I feel like I can relate to you in a lot of ways - I’m a D1 in dental school and I come from an Asian household where there has definitely been pressure to find stability. I’m so happy that you had the courage to step out of your comfort zone and follow your heart, even if there are unknowns and it’s scary. You are going to be amazing! Thank you for being such a wonderful role model!

Was ready to listen to this podcast with my morning coffee, going through emails and ended up dropping everything to watch this. What a beautifully emotional video. Wasn't ready to be moved like this... Congratulations on such a big step, wishing you nothing but the best on your "new" journey!

I love this and all of your videos/podcasts. Somehow each video even though not 100% relatable, I can always find myself learning or having something good to take away from them. And I always feel inspired after watching and listening to your stories. I’m glad you’ve made a decision that has made you happier. It’s really an eye opener to pursue what makes you happy or leave what makes you unhappy. Thank you for sharing your stories with us! 💕💕💕

[@autumngalindo8279]

this made me tear up so hard at the end. i think you’re beyond inspirational maddy, and you make me feel like i’m not too lost in the thick of being in your 20’s and navigating life. i’m only pushing 24, and i constantly feel unsure of how to make myself happy in the business/financial aspects of my life as someone from a working class family too, not of money or wealth of any kind. albeit not immigrants in this generation of my family, my parents also pushed stability because growing up, it was paycheck to paycheck to support us all and i know my parents just want better for me than that and i want to be able to give that back to them too. but it is so hard to feel so happy in a continually downward spiral of a work life, i understand that one wholeheartedly. i really love how kind & soothing your voice is too, it’s like a comforting hug or a summer’s sun warm embrace. you are destined to do great things, nahjin. ❤️

[@ptdtruong]

I am a dentist myself and I just regret it. I’m slowly making my mind to quit a place because I feel unhappy. Thanks for making this video your story is so relatable and the tone was so calming that it made me realize that it’s ok to quit. Cheers to being happy

[@la381]

I read somewhere that dentists were one of the most miserable.

[@hansiwijayasinghe26]

Thank you for this Maddy. As someone who's in their early 30s that quit their job this year (in Jan actually), this is something I also needed to hear. Thank you and I hope we both survive this and get to keep on prioritising ourselves instead of being controlled by what the society and the world wants us to do. More power to us, I guess. Good luck 💖 cheers to being happy 😊

[@sugaudacity]

i randomly came across your channel and this is the first video I’ve seen of yours, but I just have to say I’m so proud and in awe of your strength. people always say things like “if you want something, go for it!” but it is extremely easier said than done. but you found that voice inside you and you listened, and that is truly admirable and inspiring. thank you for sharing your story and I wish you only the best on your bright and beautiful future 💛

[@chelseachen265]

This is truly truly amazing, to see how you had the courage to give up the stability, abandon the path that others have put you on, and start a new life! I’ve always loved your cooking videos, and I hope you have a lovely time doing what you love. Have a nice day Maddy :)

[@bailee7325]

Wow RDH here. Literal tears falling down my face because this is how I feel 100%. So proud of you for putting yourself first and doing what makes you happy! This gave me a lot of encouragement.

Same, I am not content with my dental hygiene job but I dont want to disappoint my family, myself

The section at 9 mins in made me cry. When you started talking to “Maddy” it felt like you were talking to me (Maddie), as I’m about to embark on a journey myself. We got this Mad!

[@mk-gs9be]

Maddie I am so happy for you. I started crying after the podcast was over because your little life story was so beautiful and special. Thank you. I hope that you will always be happy like you are... And I personally agree with you that sometimes we need to mom for ourselves. I am glad that you chose this path even when some people might say it is hard or not stable it really shows how you can respect yourself and grow mentally better. I am really happy for you 💖 Stay safe and healthy 💓

I’m crying. I recently found your podcast and love all of the wonderful advice you give. I’m so happy you are putting yourself first and doing what’s best for your mental health. I’m about to embark on a new career and I hope I remember this video and never feel stuck in a job/place that is no longer serving me. An inspiration!! Xoxo

Ah I love and appreciate how vulnerable you are in this video! I think when we actually really look at our fear straight, we learn that it’s nothing more than conceptual thoughts that we might’ve store into our hearts and believe from somewhere probably low energy regardless of the intentions. Thank you for helping me to be brave about my own fear too. You sure will be beyond okay Maddy!🤍

[@sloanegrace]

LOVE THIS so happy for you. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, the good and the not so glamorous. It’s really important to show life without filters and it’s one of the reasons I’m a big fan of yours!! Thank you Maddy! As someone who has also experienced completely changing the course of my life, it’s EXTREMELY scary and hard but worth it and you’ll find peace. I’m still searching for my next project but enjoying the peace in the freedom of the unknown! ☺️☺️🥰🥰✌🏽

[@jeantan9222]

Maddy!!!! This episode encouraged and comforted me so much. I’m at the same cross road, torn between my hobby and a day job I dont have a passion for but is stable and has good benefits. Maybe I’ll be brave and make a decision soon. I’m excited for what’s to come for you ❤️

[@annas.7539]

I'm happy for you! Glad that you're following your dreams and are becoming happier. Can't wait to see what's going to happen, So excited so excited for you ❤️

[@juliqaaa]

Love, love, love all of this! You are following your dreams and putting your happiness first ❤️ I can relate and understand to how scary it may feel chasing something that may seem "unstable" or "unconventional" to others but this is your journey and you know what's best for you. Glad to hear you're happy and following your heart! Best of luck in your new adventure x

I love this ! , I'm not Asian , but Nigerian but academically I see many similarities in our cultures , our stories are different , for me it was medicine, after spending 7 years in medical school I literally just failed my final exam of medical school and feel kind of lost because medicine was literally my whole personality - I'm now discovering all the things I enjoyed before medical school and honestly your videos are really comforting !

[@zainaba.1788]

I love your honesty. I hope everything is going well for you a year later 😊

[@justsomeone5660]

Maddy I was so stressed and this video calmed me down. literally. this was like a warm hug. thank you ❤️

Maddy this is so beautiful 😭 I can relate so much. Especially when you talk about the external and also internal pressures that sometimes can bring us down to the point that when we look in the mirror, we can’t recognize ourselves. I am at that point right now and facing some important decisions in my life. Grateful to know I am not the only one who has experienced this. Love your content and your vulnerability and transparency. You have a beautiful soul. Wishing you all the best as you embark on this new journey. Thank you for sharing ❤️

[@alyssasalazar9454]

Maddy, although I am a relatively new follower of yours, I am excited to see where this journey will take you. I appreciate your honesty and courage to do what you feel like you are called to do. I hope I can find that strength as well. God bless!

[@Blaqueasian]

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE everything about this vlog. You stepping out on faith and more importantly your HAPPINESS is heartwarming. I am reminded of a recent post, meme, something I saw somewhere that spoke on FAILURE and how we are taught to fear it. Failure is NEVER a bad thing, it just shows you how things are never to be perfect. Perfection is overrated. With failure comes a lot of life’s lessons. Am I saying we should just go out and abandon everything, no. Just seeing your journey and how tortured you were making this decision should never be normal. You have common sense and you know right from wrong so only you can make the best decisions for you. Just watching your face at the end of your video showed just how much at ease you are with your decision is THE BEST! You got this! I can’t wait to see what else you will do. 🙏🏽

[@sharonyang8822]

I love this! I feel like there are so many of us who have a job just to pay the bills that ends up consuming our energy but meanwhile there’s soemthing that we love and dream about on the side. This really speaks to that. Thank you for your courage and heart ❤

[@vinutha001]

Thank you for making this video, Maddy, and showing some of us who are going through the same thing that we’re not alone in our feelings. I’m so happy you found your peace and happiness ❤

not sure why im so teary-eyed watching this video -- maybe it's cuz we're all trying to be brave and figure things out for ourselves THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING MADDY ♥

[@k3d1c]

Thank you so much Maddy for creating this video and sharing your experience with us. This video popped up and i saw the image and the title and it attracted me to it bc im going thru similar thing right now. Had i not watched your video, i would keep feeling guilty or ashamed about how i left my ft job, like it was the "wrong" thing to do. This is new for me. I def feel like i lost my passion and it was getting to be so hard getting up every day. Watching your video, i didnt realize that i was burnt out at this job. I thought it was bc im not enough at my work but it seems clearer to me now, yes i just lost joy in it and over time, i slowly did acknowlegde the 9-6 work week, i felt like i dont have time for the things i really enjoy. I was only hanging on bc of the benefits and security. I left and felt released but also scared of the uncertainty. After watching your video, i am so grateful to you and your encouraging words, i def will go for it. Im going to explore and seek out what brings me joy and start there. One person shared a phrase w me a long time ago, it was something like, dont worry about circumstances and money, on "how" to achieve your dream, focus on the "thing" (i forgot, maybe it was dream or goal) and then you will find a way. Resources will come to support. I think this is probably not the saying. Back then, i couldnt understand this. I was so focused on, i cant achieve that bc i dont have money. Recently, someone told me their mother always told her, go for what youre passionate about or what you like, and money will always follow. Recently, ive been reflecting on what money is. Before the creation of the money system, humans were probably trading goods and then probably services. I'll give you some wool and you'll give me some chickens, or i'll build your rooftop and you'll cook for me. I think we got so obsessed with making money (more money=better life, pay for food, shelter, etc) and some ppl will kidnap certain breed of dogs and beat ppl up just for money (saw it in documentary, the gangster justified, hey, i need to make money and put food on the table). If there was an unprecedented drastic global emergency situation, all the gold and paper would not have value. Like, even now, the money system is not working. Goods are higher, pay is the same. Feel like we're slowly being turned into modern day slaves and we're blind to its system. It's like the matrix movie. I am not trying to generalize but these are some of the thoughts that came up recently so it's not to be taken as "the" truth, it's just how the world occurs to me and it's just one person's POV. To everyone reading, don't have to agree or disagree, but hope to have in common with you all is of being free to openly communicate and share and being respectful of everyone's differences and uniqueness. If my thoughts cause you to feel like you need to defend your POV, or feeling like you are being pushed to listen, it was not my intention to invalidate your experiences nor to persuade and push my way of thinking onto you all. I am just sharing my thoughts and i acknowledge it's impossible to deeply understand every person's POV and how they see the world. I cannot even imagine what it's like for you and cannot deeply and really know what it is like to be in your shoes, so i acknowledge you all, your life, your experiences, it is all valid. We all have unique POVs just as many there are stars in the sky. I have questions about career, my purpose, and im 37yo. I know there are others who have quit their careers that they worked so hard all their life and ppl around them and family might be shocked. Some of them, mid 30s, 40 or even 50. Im guessing is it bc we think we're only meant for one thing in this life? And when we detour and travel an unknown path, ppl might think we're making big "mistakes"? I really appreciate your words Maddy, at the end. Being our own voice of support, like how i would personally support my friend. Like, yes! Go for it! You deserve to be happy! I think i am caught up in my fear of failing. Now, i realize, i wont know what will happen, so i have courage now to just try it out first. Thank you Maddy for sharing your life with us. This video, it was enlightening inquiry and i appreciated you bringing it up and providing further insights and digging deeper as to why - it allowed space for me to look clearly for myself. I am grateful for the access to this conversation, and also admire your candidness and courage, to show your human-ness (is this a word? Lol) You have impacted me and made a difference 😊 i am always in the benefit of you when i watch your videos. You bring joy to us viewers so i would like to share with you, to keep going, to keep doing things that make you happy and bring you sense of joy, peace, freedom to express and just be. 🎉❤

[@The_lightning_count_]

I’m so proud of you!! It’s so hard to overcome our Asian family programming of “get and keep a real job.” You are strong, you are brave, you are brilliant. Keep going ☀️

[@user-oi8uk9vc4t]

so proud of you and even a bit jealous bc i’m 19 and still figuring out what truly makes me happy. we’ll all be here supporting and growing with you every step of the way! thank you for sharing your struggles and successes with us!

[@cam6232]

This is such an important video, thank you for being so genuine & for having the strength to open up to the world like this. Sending love!

Maddy, YAY!!!! I'm sitting here smiling SO BIG for you. I watched your day in the life video two times to make sure i fully understood how busy you were, and it stressed me, because selfishly, I was so scared that the dentistry would take you away from making content but alas, the opposite has happened! You are inspiring and seriously a wonderful part of my week. a HUGE cheers to you.

Amazing! Yay for you! And for praying it through! Can’t wait to see how the next chapter unfolds for you!

[@celesteparra8075]

really wasnt prepared to cry this much maddy. thank you for being so open and honest with us, and showing your struggles that im sure more than half of us deal with. i cannot wait to gain the encouragement like you, whenever that may be.

[@No-xh2cs]

This video left me in tears. Thank you so much for blogging this so beautifully. I am in Healthcare too and after a long road to be an anesthesiologist I too feel all the similar stresses and external pressures for stability. I hope you continue to be successful and I enjoy watching every video you create!

"I have to be my own supporter and influence my own head even if things go wrong." For people who grow up in a families where their life decisions are taken and influenced by their parents, this is a big step . This must be so liberating and at the same time,so empowering. I wish you happiness and peace 🤍

[@laurasoo6574]

Maddy, this video was so incredibly healing and relatable. I also struggle so much with being prone to external influence and a discouraging inner voice, and everything you said was so spot on - I hope I too can be my own biggest supporter one day and this has been a tremendous inspiration. :) When you mentioned the part time job, i chuckled because I think it’s totally something I would do for myself too if I were in your position especially as an East Asian that also grew up in an environment that prioritises stability in a job. I used to dream of labour, but only in recent years after my mental and physical health had taken hits, I also decided to try and work towards a free-er, more balanced life. Now I think I’m much happier than when I was, like you, spending every minute of my life working and believing I’m living just because I consoled myself with “you’re achieving things”. But living isn’t just about achieving. I love seeing how you sat with your emotions of fear and conflicting thoughts about the decision, and yet ending up in a position believing genuinely that everything will be okay and that things do get better. I hope the very best for you Maddy, stay happy and healthy ❤️

[@QuestionMarque]

Hi Maddy, as a second gen Asian immigrant this feels so so familiar. The pressure of having to choose a stable job because our parents didn’t have that luxury was so debilitating. I worked so hard to become a dentist and now that I’m there, I don’t know if was all worth it? Still gathering all my thoughts about it, but I really appreciate this video! I admire your courage and wish you the absolute best!

Hey, kind of the same situation here but not finished yet; may I ask how you feel about it now after 6 months?

Related to every single second of this voiceover Maddie!!! You’re really amazing for recognizing ur inner voice and sharing so vulnerably❤️

Wow, thank you for being so vulnerable, Maddy. Your story is so close to my heart because I am ~kind of?~ in the exact same situation as you were. I'm not exactly at the point of wanting to quit my job and change career but growing up in an Asian household, I always felt the pressure to live up to expectations. I don't even know why I went into healthcare but I treat my job as a job and it pains me every time my friend talks about the career with interest and passion because it reminds me of how empty I feel for it. I want to do something more creative but I'm not sure if I have anything I can do as a career so it's still just a "hobby" of mine. Seeing your journey is very enlightening. I am still content with what I have now but it was great seeing someone go through a similar scenario and seeing you thrive at the end of the tunnel! Thanks for that!

I teared up watching this. You’re so inspiring and I’m so happy for you!! Sending you best wishes and hugs ♥️

[@laurenthomas3748]

Thank you for sharing this message. I love that you didn’t look for someone else’s permission to live your life. You took a risk to be happy and I wish you the best on this new journey. Protecting your mental health is so key.

[@madsgeorge5771]

Maddy, I’ve been watching your videos for several months now and watching this video was a sweet melody to my ears. I loved the way you shared your self reflection and how you got to this point. So so happy for you. 🕯💞This inspired me.

[@jamalwearsprada]

Hi Maddy! I’m a dental student, currently in my clinical year. Tbh, I’m starting to feel burnt out too, and although I have yet to be working like you, I understand how you feel. Thank you so much for sharing this!

[@djsarali]

Proud and excited for you! I love your content and I love the positive messages and influences you gave to yourself. And even after the video you took, it still took a week which is just real. Cheering for you!

Awh, I really loved and needed this today. I've been contemplating alot of the same things, and going through burn out in this pandemic has been something else. But seeing this really gave a voice to things I've been feeling (and maybe ignoring too) So happy I came across this ✨ take care! 🤍

Dear Maddy, thanks for the video! This is my reality as well, working on my PhD, doing science comme doing foodie stuff, being a coach, listening to friends and repeat every day, alone in a foreign country, adjusting my hours to the little communication with time shift to my loved ones. But now that i got my degree, I definitely will not push myself too hard anymore with zero free time.I hope some day I can also be brave as you and not choose the path of stability but the path of happiness! You will do great Maddy, you are an inspiration!

ah this made me tear up, God is so good! Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us Maddy!

[@abbyblair1631]

I love your content Maddy❤, you are so amazing and inspiring! I just graduated undergrad and got my first job. Going through a similar patch and I have an unhappy work enviornment. Trying to re-evaluate my priorities, focusing on mental health, and what makes me happy. 😊 Just like you said, life is too short to do what others and society says you should do! Wishing the best for everyone out there who is making the big step❤

[@ashilykim9889]

This video was so incredibly inspiring and moving~ Maddy, you are so brave and courageous and I'm so happy that you have taken steps to pursue your passion and happiness. As a creative Korean American myself, I felt so many of the things you shared in this video. Congratulations on your journey, I can't wait to see how you will thrive & grow! ❤️

I relate to so many feelings you mentioned. Seeing patients everyday can really take a physical, mental & emotional toll sometimes and a work life balance can always so easily tip over. So happy and excited for you and your next adventures! Do right by yourself & everything else will follow ☺️ Take care 💖

This hit me. I’m so happy for you!!! It’s not always that people can do this! Best of luck on your journey ahead!!

[@sylvanavfuentes]

I wanted to cry watching this video, seeing this from someone who understands the struggles of being an immigrant daughter, was especially comforting. Feeling the need to sacrifice my own life to give my own family the stability they never had or the luxuries they never had, has been a tremendous weight upon my shoulders. All I ever wanted was to be a wife and a mother. I don’t even know if the passion I have for medicine is my own at this point, or if I’ve been sort of dragged into this idea of becoming an independent woman who doesn’t need anyone. You are a wonderful inspiration, and I am so happy that God led you down this journey of reconnection with yourself. Sending you tremendous amounts of love and support, Maddy, God bless you. ❤

We believe in you Maddy! I am so happy that you are happier and filling your time with the things that matter most in life. We’ll always support you in whatever you choose to do. ❤️

[@davidp9316]

I work as a dentist too and I get how you're feeling since we all have those days. I'm glad you found something you enjoy! I like how this is like a video diary and something you can look back and listen on. I journal a few times every year since covid and it's incredible to see what tough decisions I made in the past that almost broke everything for me, but they ended up being great choices looking back. I wish you the best in everything you do!

[@debbyweinstein7687]

Good for you Maddy!!! I just recently stumbled upon your account. I find your videos comforting and soothing and I looked forward to seeing them pop up in my IG feed. I now have “post” notifications on so I won’t miss a single one. You’ve got this!!! You are creative and instinctively connect with your viewers. I wish you nothing but the best.

[@Athandatu]

I just watch the short you posted about this, which eventually led me to this video. As an Asian, who's also been influenced by the same factors you mentioned, and have struggled with the same dilemmas, I can fully related to your story. And your decision to find yourself, and take the leap is absolutely inspiring, and I even feel joy vicariously through you. I simply love what you have done, and thank so much for sharing it with me on this video.

[@mzfrozen]

Thank you Maddy for sharing. I relate to this alot as an Asian American and new grad dentist. I love that you have found your passion in creating content. Looking forward to seeing more and cheering you on!

[@Sarah-ul9ec]

This is great!!! So happy for your bravery and truly hope that you enjoy more of your online and offline life ❤️

So brave and encouraging!!! Can't wait to see what's next for you!!!

So inspiring. Thank you for reminding me It’s never too late. Cheering you on with your new path!!!

[@mayleanlean5258]

Hi Maddy . I came across your vid out of nowhere and im so glad that i found ur channel. I am really proud and happy with your decision. I am exactly just like you. I work as a doctor and feels like its no longer my calling. I dread myself to work , feeling unhappy and complain about every single thing at work . But I am scared to quit due to the uncertainties and the fact that i have spent so many of years studying. Also the stability of the job and guranteed paycheck just make me dwell in this job longer. I am planning to quit my job end of this year and just like you, plan to take up part time job as a doctor while venturing into something else that i love. I wish u all the success in your career. Lots of love.

So happy to hear you are following what makes you happy! what an encouragement and its so lovely to see you create content, I love your content! I wish you the best ❤

[@AnnieShan08]

You got this! Literally so proud and cannot wait to see your growth from this!

Awesome! Love ALL your teachings. This lesson in particular! Thank you.

[@nala2747]

thank you Maddy for this post. it was God massage through your video for me. I grew up with exact same fears and weaknesses about stability and how powerful it is in my family as you talked about . that's why I struggled for at least past 10 yrs of my life finding a career that doesn't burn me out and at the same time give me stability or luxury life. and your peace of mind after quitting and overcoming your fear was all I had to show to my fix mindset as a proof. that life is still going on even if you quit high salary job with great benefits for pursuing your passion. and you're not gonna be miserable if you do so. Thank you Maddy . It was alive changing point in myeline.

[@ankitamishra2826]

This was so needed and i’m so proud of you choosing in what we happy✨its all gonna be great happiest wishing you success and peace🧿✨i love you ! You’re doing great maddy✨

[@1madeofclay]

Thank you for sharing this struggle of yours that is very relatable to most young people. You are an inspiration and it brings me joy every time I see your IG posts and videos~ Be proud of the step you have taken, continue to trust in God and know that God will continue to lead you, wherever and however you get there. Keep doing the things you love like cooking and being an amazing content creator! We love you Maddy!

[@MyNini1990]

So very proud of you!! Can’t wait to see what comes next!

[@camillemarot3113]

Thank you for this!! ❤️ I needed it today. I'm happy for you! You deserve to be happy 🌷

[@JackieD318]

I love your story! I'm so happy that you had the courage to abandon your inhibitions and try something new. Life is all about living and experiencing things and you certainly don't want to have any regrets when you get old. Yes, the stability is important too, but you managed to have it all, stability, creativity and just enjoying your life and that is the ultimate goal!

[@mattwinick7659]

Maddy I love this video. I'm sorry that you had struggles in life. Even though I don't know you and from watching your videos and listening to your podcast, I want to say that I'm proud of you for working hard to make a difference, try to find enjoyment in life while give yourself self care, and for sharing your story. You inspire me to continue to support your goals including your work.

Thankyou so much maddy. I feel every single words to my core. Thankyou for giving me courage to listen to my heart, and decide to pursue my passion. Thankyou 😭🥺

[@skippythetall]

Maddy you are such an inspiration. I also have always loved food and cooking and have wanted to get into creating content like yours but was also raised in an Asian American family where I felt like creativity has to take a backseat to a good, stable job. I’m getting to the point where I’m getting sick of sitting at a computer and making spreadsheets all day. I hope one day I get the courage to do what you’ve done. I was so happy for you and inspired that you had gone to Sicily for a farm to table class. you’re living the dream!

[@ms.norwood4685]

I’m so proud of you. This is so motivational. So many people are scared to take the leap of faith. Good job for you. Happiness and peace of mind should always be at the forefront. God will always take care of you if you keep him first. Good job and God bless. 🥰

Congratulations, this is really amazing!! I’m getting ready to do the same thing in my life (soon 🤞🏼). The stability part is what I’m grappling with currently so I really appreciated what you had to say about it. Rooting for you!

[@karyadamai]

This made me cry buckets, Maddy 😭🥺 Thank you for being so brave and sharing this with us. I too come from a very conservative Asian family where every single thing is decided for me. At 29, after months of contemplation, I finally quit my stable job as a teacher due to intense stress and burnt out much to my parents dismay and horror. Took them awhile to understand that I needed to do it for me. And though it’s super scary, having this utter freedom all to myself. All the decisions I’m making now is on me. No one else. At times, I don’t know what to do but then I’ll tell myself that it’s okay, it’s going to be okay. Still very much terrified but I’m happy at heart. Love you so much, Maddy 💜

Thank you for sharing so vulnerably. I'm on the verge of quitting my "stable" job to do a mix of part-times - one for underlying stability and one because I love it. Until you worded it that way, I never realized that I also unconsciously labelled the things I'm truly interested in as my "hobbies." I know it will take some time, but I want to have the courage to see if they can become my unique career in the future. I think the way you said you have to be your own mom and dad really gave me a breakthrough on how to talk to myself and encourage myself. How would I encourage my child in trying something new? I'd definitely tell them to go for it, and that failure is just part of the process. I came here from the Pan Pals, and I'm so excited to see your other videos and podcasts!

[@TOTO75016]

This is really inspiring, I guess there's a lot of people passing through those same feeling right now and it feels good not being alone. Thank you for sharing, much love

[@sunandrain98]

Maddy, I'm so glad i found your channel. I recently left a course that i had been on for 4 years and going through those same feelings. I take it that it's a good sign that i found your channel.

This made me sooo soooo happy for you!! Thank you for sharing your journey, for your honesty and candor. I don't know you, but heck I'm so proud of you!

[@rudiferr]

Finally doing this must be so liberating for you! Excited to see the amazing things you're cooking up 🍵

[@Suijinkou]

I am excited for you, for your new stage in life. I hope it works out well for you! I definitely understand the family thing, but I'm glad you are going to do something you love and makes you happy. It's going to be amazing!

[@apara2005]

This video was on my feed...what an inspiration!!!! I too hate my job and want to venture off into something else, but am apprehensive. I need to make the first steps of freeing myself of misery! Thank you.

The part where you’re encouraging yourself and having that one-on-one with God-- gosh that made me cry haha. It’s so real. I’ve felt in similar situations before. It’s an awakening honestly. Thank you for sharing your journey with us ❤️