A Missed Opportunity: What I Wish I’d Done Differently

By Tracy Schruder

Looking back, I recall a time when I didn’t take action on an opportunity that could have potentially changed the course of my career. I was 23 years old when I was recruited by Choice Hotels Canada to be the midnight auditor at Day’s Inn in Brockville, Ontario. Initially, I accepted the position and excelled in my training, demonstrating my ability to sell and process rooms, as well as provide excellent hospitality to guests.

However, as time went on, I found the demands of the job overwhelming. Managing the scheduling for the housekeeping staff proved to be a significant stressor, and balancing two jobs and school left me exhausted. After four months, I made the difficult decision to quit.

In hindsight, I wish I had approached the opportunity differently. Instead of juggling multiple responsibilities, I wish I had focused solely on the midnight auditor role and my education. With dedication and hard work, I might have been able to move up the corporate ladder and secure a leadership position within the company.

Although I don’t regret the choices I made, I believe that my youth and inexperience at the time contributed to my decision to quit. If I had been older, perhaps in my 30s, I might have taken the job offer more seriously and been better equipped to handle the challenges that came with it.

This experience taught me valuable lessons about prioritizing my goals and being mindful of my limitations. While I may not have taken full advantage of the opportunity at the time, I’m proud of the path I’ve chosen and the success I’ve achieved. Nevertheless, it’s interesting to reflect on what could have been, and I’m grateful for the wisdom gained from the experience.