Former Dentist Trades Scalpel for Sales Floor, Finds Freedom From “Frenetic” Pressure
MALAGA, SPAIN – A Spanish dentist, overwhelmed by the relentless demands and competitive pressures of her profession, has made a radical career shift – embracing a new life as a sales assistant.Dr. Elena Aguilera, formerly practicing dentistry in Spain, now finds fulfillment and a renewed sense of purpose working in a retail environment, a decision driven by a desire for improved mental health and a better quality of life.
Aguilera’s story resonates as burnout rates climb across high-stress professions, prompting individuals to re-evaluate priorities and seek alternative paths. Her experience highlights a growing trend of professionals prioritizing well-being over conventional markers of success,and the courage required to fundamentally alter one’s career trajectory.
The contrast between her former and current work lives is stark. “The pace in a practice is frenetic and mistakes are costly,” aguilera explained. “in addition, there is a very competitive environment. If you go on vacation, your colleagues can see your patients and make mistakes that you then have to fix, or try to stay with your patients.” She found the retail environment offered a different dynamic.”In the store it is different: there are a thousand things to do, but there is no competition and mistakes can be made.”
For the first time in years,Aguilera experienced professional relief. “The pressure is almost non-existent now. I wake up looking forward to going to work. I’m not afraid and sometimes I have to pinch myself to remember how much my life has changed.” Despite a significant reduction in salary, aguilera affirms, “It compensates me because I have gained quality of life, mental health and desire to live.“
Looking ahead, Aguilera is pursuing training in personal and business coaching, aiming to empower others to make similar life-altering decisions. “I have changed my life with courage and sacrifice. I would like to accompany those who do not dare to do so, help them turn their dreams into reality and find their purpose,” she stated.”If I had stayed in Dentistry, I would never have been able to find my purpose.” While she doesn’t rule out a potential return to dentistry if needed, Aguilera is resolute: “I don’t have to be a dentist again to support myself.”
