I think I can, I think I can

As per usual the life of a young gal in pursuit of her dreams is a cycle of joy and frustration that ebbs and flows. To those who say - "It's just a job," I say, we just don't have a goal of usefulness or perseverance in common. I, as a human, vow to pursue excellence in my professional/personal life. I don't believe these to be all that separate. Personal fulfilment from your career should never be too much to ask.

Young Profs out there,...if you're listening, the pursuit of personal fulfillment/gainful employment is not an easy one. It is hard, real hard. Many tears have been cried and beers been drank over the angst many of us feel in our professional lives. Where is the success we were promised as kiddies? Am I not as special as my mom told me?? You many be feeling, "Haven't I done everything right?" Well maybe you have, or maybe your career is not a straight line. It doesn't matter. Stop thinking about the barriers and look for opportunities, however small. Small wins are what get you through the day. Some advice. For me and for you.

1. Seek inspiration. Read, learn, and talk about your challenges. You are not alone!

2. Have goals outside of your professional life. Learn a new language, climb a mountain, eat more wings in 5 minutes than anyone in the tri-state area. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wing_Bowl

3. Do what your passionate about. If you can do this at work - you're lucky. If not, see if there are ways to incorporate what you love into your work. Otherwise, if you love writing, find a newsletter to contribute to. Start blogging! If you love marketing, do some work pro bono for a local non-profit or free-lance. If you're into nature, go for a walk in the park with a friend. Do what you love. Do it now.

4. Remember that anything worth doing is worth doing well, and never give up! We will be useful, we will contribute our talents and skills to this world and we will be a catalyst for change, transforming business as usual.

Of all the things in life you can't control, like how big your forehead is, family, your height (I'm still 4'11"), you can absolutely control many things. I have the choice of my profession. I can chose to pursue my professional goals and hope that "the world makes way for the man who knows where he is going (Emerson)." I have a choice as to how I spend my time, with whom, doing what, and for what purpose. I can choose my words. My thoughts. My actions. My life!! :)