Those of you who have been following my blog since I started writing it in Jan 2013 will know that in December I made the decision to walk away from security, familiarity and take the path to exploring new opportunities. I decided to Go Sailing.
It's been amazing having the freedom and time to really understand my career aspirations and goals. To analyse my passions and where I can add most value to myself, to people, to businesses. I've been networking, brainstorming and exploring ideas.
One of the things that didn't sit right with me previously in my career was the imbalance I felt. I had the money to do the things I wanted to do, but not enough time due to the commitment of work and restriction of holiday entitlement.
I've been working towards creating a life where I'm more in control of my time and earning sources. I'm looking for the flexibility to enjoy my adventures, challenges and training - to fit them around my work commitments. Most of all, I want to work on projects that motivate me and offer opportunities for professional and personal growth. Not asking for much hey?!
I am making progress and it feels as though everything will soon come together. I'm so close to living the life I've been dreaming of and working towards it, that I must keep this focus.
BUT
Some days it's tough.
I am new to this life of not knowing how it's going to turn out, how I will be earning my living, of creating my own structure and sticking to it. Dealing with the unknown, unfamiliar and lack of security can get to me. I'm learning every day and I'm trying my best to ensure I don't let it affect me, but some days it does.
Some days I feel as though I'm truly living the dream, working hard on my goals and vision for the future. Other days I am close to calling recruitment consultants and getting my CV on the market. I crave the feeling of being paid for a role I can do confidently. Of going into work and knowing what I need to do to get the job done. I miss having a platform from which I can focus, progress and build. Then of course, there's the feeling of getting paid! I've always loved working and earning money - the value money has when you have worked for it.
I can't give in, I'm going to keep focusing and driving my dreams forward.
I'm very thankful to have an incredible support network - family and friends are all there to support. But beyond them, Charley, who I recently married is the best mentor, friend and support I could wish for. He helps me figure out how to make my dreams come true. I also have a few professional mentors - relationships I have nurtured over the last few years. I can't stress enough the importance of having mentors - people who you might be able to collaborate with at some stage, people who you share passions, values and a vision with.
These are the people who will promote, advocate your ideas and champion you.
My message to myself and all those of you out there fighting for the work/life you deserve is:
Keep going and keep the faith it will work out
Question what we are ingrained to think is the right way to do things
Embrace the unknowns and let go of the familiar
I'll never forget the response from a close friend when I explained my plan was to quit my job and explore the exciting world we have at our finger tips, he said: "That's the dream Sophie, that's what everyone wants to do. Shouldn't you wait until you have a plan or have bought a house?" In fact, his response made me realise it was the right thing to do.
If you wait until conditions are perfect, you won't do it. Do it now. Remember...
A ship in the harbour is safe, but that's not what a ship was built for
Go Sailing
:)