Hey Starry, just wanted to say it sounds like you are making real progress with this very sensible decision - deciding what is not right for us is another step forward to what is right for us.

I can really relate - for years I volunteered in social care sector and loved it, colleagues ancouraged me to get a job in that sector and I tried and tried so hard, eventually I landed a job in that sector (charitable). You know the phrase "Be careful for what you wish for"? That was me. Worst of all I beat myself up because I thought I 'should' be a natural and love this career (I liked bits of it but not much), yet I felt overwhelmed, I thought that meant I was a failure.... Eventually with the support of my husband I left that job.

I went through the learning curve you are describing the hard way, and I put myself through a hard time over it. Yet now a year and a half on I can see it more clearly, what was so bad a fit for me in that job. I am so happy for you that you realise this before you went down that road.

I ended up doing another job which suits me better, it's a more 'productive' fast paced job, but I found out I love being on the go (sitting in an office is stressful for me which was a big part of my old job). I am so glad I had the courage to leave the old job and try something different, I'm not as well paid but I'm happier. And i still volunteer in the social care sector which is fine.

I think trying out a few different things, volunteering, maybe a part time job, any kind work experience is very valuable in understanding what fits us well.

It sounds like you are making great progress!