I got turned down for two jobs in October, yep TWO jobs. Despite knowing that the right job is still out there, and that I currently have a job I love, it was a blow to my ego. I have been asked why I was looking if I love my job and there is no simple answer, but it was an opportunity that I needed to put my name in the hat for if I want to achieve the career plan I have for myself. I know I would have been fantastic in either position but I also know that I have to trust that my path is still being created so this was not the end of it, just a detour. So, after a night or two or feeling sorry for myself, I got up and decided that I would get back to finding my path. I started by asking myself why the job was such a blow to my ego - I mean, my whole identity is not wrapped up in my career, is it? Maybe it was time for some introspection...
When I stepped back a little, I realized that, for me, finding my right path might come outside of my career - not that I can't find great opportunities in my career but my personal path should be about so much more than that. Then, I had the chance to do two things last month: plan an event for Read for the Record at the YWCA Family Center and attend the YWCA's annual Woman to Woman luncheon. Suddenly, I realized what I needed to get on my right path and it meant going back to my passion for service and volunteerism. Reading to 23 small children and seeing the sheer joy and excitement in their faces as we read the story, created our own antennae and made collages was one of those moments you can only truly appreciate if you are in it.
So, my career path is still there and I am not ready to let it get overgrown from lack of care and attention, but I think I am closer to finding my right path, right here in my community. I am taking my first steps down this path and I cannot wait to see where it leads. No matter what, I know that this path will bring me new challenges and personal growth, and hopefully some new friends and mentors along the way.
