In this episode, host Raquel Sands introduces Vicky Kelty, an American English teacher living in Spain - exploring new career paths, the value of positive influences, and staying open to life's unpredictable paths.
To work with Vickie: https://www.vickiekelty.com/lets-talk/Find out more about her on:
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@vickiekelty
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vickiekelty
TL;DR
Life rarely goes as planned—and that’s a good thing. This guide shares:
Why unpredictability is a catalyst for growth.
How Vickie’s journey from Nebraska to Spain (via Costa Rica) unlocked her calling.
Practical steps to embrace uncertainty and pivot with confidence.
Why turning hobbies into businesses isn’t always a bad idea.
Introduction: The Myth of the Straight Path
We’re conditioned to believe success is linear: pick a major, land a job, climb the ladder. But Episode 24 of The Clarity Shift proves otherwise. Vickie Kelty’s story—journalism student turned online English teacher living in Spain—shows that freedom often hides in detours.
“Every twist in the road is a breadcrumb leading you closer to your truth.”
Part 1: The Book That Sparked a Mindset Shift
When asked what piece of media shaped her life, Vicky didn’t choose Friends or Stephen King (though she loves both). Her answer? The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
First read in Spanish during a study abroad in Costa Rica.
Re-read years later in Germany during a moment of uncertainty.
Key takeaway: “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
Lesson: The right message finds you when you’re ready. Stay open to signs—even if they come in the form of a dog-eared book at a train station.
Part 2: From Journalism to Teaching English Abroad
Vickie studied journalism but didn’t know what came next. Instead of forcing a path, she:
Took a leap into a study abroad volunteer program in Costa Rica.
Was assigned to teach English—a role she hadn’t planned but instantly loved.
That single experience paved the way for a decade-long career in language education.
Reframe: Sometimes the universe decides for you—and that’s okay.
Part 3: Turning a Skill Into an Online Business
After years of teaching English in Spain, Vickie transitioned to online English coaching:
Helps professionals feel confident in everyday English conversations—at work, while traveling, or socially.
Built a business around flexibility and global connection.
Hot take: “Don’t turn your hobby into a job” isn’t universal advice. For some, monetizing a passion creates freedom—not burnout.
Part 4: Why Staying Open Matters (Even When It’s Scary)
Unpredictability can feel uncomfortable—but it’s often where growth lives:
Vickie’s detours led to a life in Spain, a thriving business, and a sense of purpose.
Each pivot started with curiosity, not certainty.
The Alchemist’s wisdom applies: You have to crawl before you walk, before you run..txt)
Action step: Ask yourself: Where am I resisting change—and what would happen if I leaned in instead?
Part 5: Practical Tips to Embrace Life’s Detours
1) Follow the Breadcrumbs
Notice recurring signs—books, conversations, opportunities. They’re clues.
2) Experiment Without Attachment
Treat new paths like taste tests. You don’t have to commit forever.
3) Reframe “Failure”
Every pivot teaches you something—even if it’s what you don’t want.
4) Build Flexibility Into Your Plans
Leave space for surprises. Rigidity kills creativity.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if I should pivot?
If staying feels like stagnation and curiosity keeps knocking, it’s time to explore.
Q: Is it risky to turn a hobby into a business?
It depends—if monetizing your passion feels expansive (not draining), it can work beautifully.
Q: How do I stay open when I crave control?
Start small: one new experience, one conversation, one book. Build tolerance for uncertainty gradually.
Reflection Prompts
What “breadcrumbs” have shown up in my life recently?
Where am I clinging to certainty—and what would loosening my grip look like?
What’s one unpredictable path I secretly want to explore?
Final Word
The straight path is overrated. When you stay open to life’s unpredictable turns, you stop chasing certainty and start creating possibility. Every detour is a breadcrumb leading you closer to your truth.
You’ve got this. 🌍✨
