Q&A with a Former Geography Teacher Turned B&B Owner and Pilates Instructor, Fiona
Are you feeling stuck in your current career, yearning for a change of pace, and perhaps even a change of scenery? Meet Fiona, a former secondary school geography teacher who made a bold decision to leave her teaching career behind. She now runs a charming bed and breakfast in Cornwall, England with her partner. She also teaches Pilates, while her partner, James, works as a website designer and is in the early stages of his new venture. He also used to be a teacher. In this Q&A, Fiona shares her inspiring journey and insights for anyone considering a career change.
Q: How long were you teaching for?
A: I taught for four years in London, six in Qatar, and six years in Kuwait.
Q: What prompted your decision to give up your career as a secondary class geography teacher in Kuwait?
A: Teaching had always been something I wanted to do, but over time, I started feeling burnt out. The distance from my family in the UK took its toll, and I was homesick. I knew that I did not want to teach in the UK again. My partner and I decided it was time for a change, and Cornwall’s picturesque landscape called to us, especially since our family was in the area too.
Q: How did you make the transition from teaching in Kuwait to running a B&B in Cornwall?
A: We had some savings from our time abroad, which provided a financial cushion for our transition. We purchased a beautiful property in Cornwall and decided to turn it into a bed and breakfast. We wanted to create a haven for travellers and combine it with my Pilates lessons. This venture allowed me to channel my love for teaching into a different form by hosting guests and sharing our local knowledge about Cornwall. Some of the guests join in with the Pilates, but these classes are open to all.
Q: How did you decide to also become a Pilates instructor?
A: When we first started the B&B, I found myself with more free time and wanted to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Pilates had always been a personal interest, so I decided to become certified as an instructor. It allowed me to connect with the local community, stay active, and offer a unique experience to our guests.
Q: Can you share some challenges you faced during this transition?
A: One of the main challenges was the financial uncertainty that comes with starting a new business. The teaching salary in Kuwait was stable, but running a B&B was a whole new ballgame. Additionally, adapting to the responsibilities of property management and guest service was a learning curve. However, we persevered, learned as we went, and built a loyal customer base.
Q: What have been the most rewarding aspects of your new career path?
A: The most rewarding aspect has been the freedom to live life on our terms. Running a B&B in Cornwall allows us to meet more wonderful people from around the world and share the beauty of this place we now call home. Teaching Pilates has also brought me personal satisfaction in helping people improve their health and well-being.
Q: Any advice for others considering a major career change like yours?
A: First and foremost, do your research and have a clear plan in place. Financial stability is crucial, so having some savings can make the transition smoother. It’s also essential to be open to learning and adapt to new challenges.
Q: What’s next for you and your partner in Cornwall?
A: We plan to continue growing our bed and breakfast business and expand our Pilates classes to reach more people. Cornwall has a lot to offer, and we want to keep sharing its beauty and tranquillity with our guests while helping our community stay active and healthy.
Fiona’s story is a testament to the power of following your heart and taking calculated risks to pursue your passions. Her journey from Kuwaiti classrooms to a Cornwall B&B and Pilates studio is a reminder that a fulfilling career change is not only possible but can also bring new joys and opportunities. Thank you, Fiona.
