Happy Labor Day!
For most people, Labor Day represents three things: the end of summer, a day off, and family barbecues.
For me, though, Labor Day represents something else as well--a time for reflection.
As I look back on my career this morning, I'm smiling as I recall my entry into the workforce at the age of sixteen. Like many teenagers, I found my first job at a popular fast-food restaurant (Mexican). I only worked there three weeks, but I learned something in that brief time that has served me well and that I've never forgotten.
I learned that ultimately I work for myself, and that I am and always will be in control of what path my career takes. I also learned that the level of pay for a job doesn't necessarily correlate to how strenuous it is, and that my career would always be as pleasant or unpleasant as the jobs I accepted, thought I deserved, and thought I was capable of performing.
Twenty-three years have passed since that first job, and I can honestly say that no job I've had since can compare to how unpleasant that first job was. The pay level was very low, and while the work wasn't mentally challenging, it was very physically demanding, and ... well, rather gross--cleaning humongous vats of greasy food, spilled hot sauce, and most disgusting of all, scraping gum off from under the tables. Ugh!
Even back then I intuitively understood the importance of not burning bridges and offered my employer two weeks' notice. Thankfully, he told me I could leave immediately, something for which I was quite grateful! I was also grateful because I knew that I had learned a valuable lesson at the tender age of sixteen that some people never learn. I learned I was in control!
In my career coaching practice, I try to help people realize that they in control of their careers as well.
As you celebrate Labor Day today, I encourage you to reflect on your career and the lessons you've learned over your own years in the workforce. If you're not working in a career you love, think about what it would look like if you experienced Abundant Success in your career and found a job that really satisfied you. You may not have the luxury I had at the age of sixteen to be able to quit your job without first finding another, but you really do have the option to find a new job or a new career.
Not sure where to start? As a trained career coach, I can help you formulate and implement a strategy to change jobs or change careers. I can also connect you to resources that will facilitate your transition, make it easier and faster.
Have a happy and safe Labor Day!
For me, though, Labor Day represents something else as well--a time for reflection.
As I look back on my career this morning, I'm smiling as I recall my entry into the workforce at the age of sixteen. Like many teenagers, I found my first job at a popular fast-food restaurant (Mexican). I only worked there three weeks, but I learned something in that brief time that has served me well and that I've never forgotten.
I learned that ultimately I work for myself, and that I am and always will be in control of what path my career takes. I also learned that the level of pay for a job doesn't necessarily correlate to how strenuous it is, and that my career would always be as pleasant or unpleasant as the jobs I accepted, thought I deserved, and thought I was capable of performing.
Twenty-three years have passed since that first job, and I can honestly say that no job I've had since can compare to how unpleasant that first job was. The pay level was very low, and while the work wasn't mentally challenging, it was very physically demanding, and ... well, rather gross--cleaning humongous vats of greasy food, spilled hot sauce, and most disgusting of all, scraping gum off from under the tables. Ugh!
Even back then I intuitively understood the importance of not burning bridges and offered my employer two weeks' notice. Thankfully, he told me I could leave immediately, something for which I was quite grateful! I was also grateful because I knew that I had learned a valuable lesson at the tender age of sixteen that some people never learn. I learned I was in control!
In my career coaching practice, I try to help people realize that they in control of their careers as well.
As you celebrate Labor Day today, I encourage you to reflect on your career and the lessons you've learned over your own years in the workforce. If you're not working in a career you love, think about what it would look like if you experienced Abundant Success in your career and found a job that really satisfied you. You may not have the luxury I had at the age of sixteen to be able to quit your job without first finding another, but you really do have the option to find a new job or a new career.
Not sure where to start? As a trained career coach, I can help you formulate and implement a strategy to change jobs or change careers. I can also connect you to resources that will facilitate your transition, make it easier and faster.
Have a happy and safe Labor Day!
posted by Abundant Success Career Services Blog | 7:59 AM
