“Something in the wind has learnt my name And it’s tellin’ me that things are not the same In the leaves on the trees, and the touch of the breeze There’s a pleasing sense of happiness for me”
Top of the World, Carpenters
Woke up this morning with two songs on my mind, songs that my grandmother used to sing, happy songs, songs of change. It got me thinking, what major shift has happened in my life recently and what does it mean? Why now am I getting this message from the Universe that all is well?
Rewind to 2022. It was the last year of my contract in a job I thoroughly enjoyed with a company that is going places. I was content, comfortable, doing my thing. All was going to the plan I had set out for myself. I was not hearing about the renewal of the contract however I was not worried. I had no reason to be. My evaluations throughout the years had been positive with no deal breaking issues. I was looking forward to continuing with this progressive company and had even hoped for a new role contributing to its growth. So when three weeks before the end of my contract I was offered an extension to the contract requirement of the notice period, I was floored. I then did what I thought was best for me, I declined the extension, left at the end of the contract, and went home.
The weeks following were not easy. I did a lot of introspection, asked for feedback, and took the time to decompress. I had an opportunity to do what many people don’t. Exhale. I embarked on projects I have always wanted to do but never had the time. I worked on my podcasting skills with an amazing coach @paulaanneja, whether or not I actually publish is still up in the air. I landed an opportunity to be ‘talent’ in a production, with a 2 line speaking part. That was exhilarating. And of course I have been reading voraciously.
What are my takeaways so far in this new journey? What have I learned?
1. All good things come to an end. That is a fact. It was the Greek philosopher Heraclitus that said “change is the only constant in life”. And so it is. Change is unavoidable and fear of change is natural, especially if it is unexpected. Accepting this makes it easier to embrace change and open ourselves to new opportunities. An ending is also a beginning.
2. Be prepared. As any Girl Guide has learned, be as prepared as you possibly can for any eventuality. Work towards a nest egg. Invest. Get your annual check ups. Exercise. Eat well. Take care of you, your physical and emotional well being.
3. Be open to all possibilities. Just because you were doing one thing for a long time does not mean that is the only thing you must do. Life is fluid, and we must be too. Look at the opportunities being presented and see if they work for you. Who knew I would have enjoyed my experience in show business so much that I am actively looking for more opportunities. Let’s see if this is a path meant for me. Can you feel the excitement?
4. A good support system is EVERYTHING. Whether this is a friend, family or a therapist/coach, a good support system provides a sense of belonging which reduces stress, offers emotional support, and improves overall health and wellbeing.
5. Stick to your values. You will be able to choose which opportunities serve you best.
This brings me to the second song that came to mind this morning:
“Dragonfly out in the sun, you know what I mean, don’t you know
Butterflies all havin’ fun, you know what I mean
Sleep in peace when the day is done, that’s what I mean
And this old world is a new world
And a bold world
For me
For me …
And I’m feeling good …”
Feeling Good, Nina Simone
#change #opportunity #happiness #growth
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