The Next Chapter
Next week I’ll be starting a new job after taking a 7 month career break. I feel extremely grateful and fortunate for being able to take the time away from work to recharge and focus on my own personal priorities - including spending time with family and friends.
I’m now ready for the next chapter, feeling refreshed, well rested, clear minded and ready for the next challenge. As I went into this next chapter, there were some criteria that I used when selecting the type of opportunity to consider. In particular I was looking for these factors:
Positive company culture proven over time
Great manager and team
Mission and vision that I’m excited about
Provides a basis for learning and growth
As I take this next role, I’m hoping to find a more sustainable approach to work - one in which I can contribute to the best of my abilities but also one that allows me to flourish as a complete individual.
When I think back on the last few months, there are some lessons that I’ll continue to take with me into the future:
Prioritize giving back and helping others
Be open to exploring new challenges and opportunities
Taking action and / or teaching others is the best way to really learn
Approach everything as if you were going to write an instruction manual
Learning what it’s like to feel uncertain
Gaining a glimpse of what time freedom looks like and adjustments I should make before I really retire