Even when you love what you do there are highs and lows along the way. I’ve worked many jobs in my life while I sorted out who and what I wanted to be when I grew up. Looking back, I can see the cycles in every choice.
As a florist, I enjoyed the daily work as well as the seasonal crunches that are fabulous and exciting. But those crunches – deadlines – can wear you down simply because of the long hours. While prom orders are often similar, each one needs special attention and detail to the construction. In crunch time, there are automatic pilot moments, creative highs, and there are moments when you forget how to tape a stem.
I’ve seen it happen to my Brilliant Husband and he’s in a career most people wouldn’t consider ‘creative’. I’ve watched him cycle through stages of various projects, and while he articulates it differently, he has low moments each time around.
This past week I faced two deadlines collided and my confidence dipped to an all time low. While I detest that moment, I’ve learned it’s just a moment and not an enduring reality.
A friend of mine once asked me what I’d do if I could do anything. I said I’d write. Then she asked me what else I’d turn to if and when writing became a job. My friend is very wise. I’ve learned to take time for a drive, some time outside with my greyhound, time with a friend, even the simple pleasure of a quiet morning off with coffee and a good book.
We’re people. None of us can go twenty-four-seven in one direction for too long. We all need to find something that rejuvenates us, that replenishes the the heart and soul we pour into our passions – whether that’s family, career, or any combination.
Through the benefit of hindsight, learning from all my previous jobs and career efforts, I can tap on those life lessons and take positive action to ‘fill the well’ before I start on the next project.
Over the next few days, I’ll read a few books just for fun. I’ll join the family for a movie – maybe two. I’m hoping to take an afternoon and walk through an art museum with my daughter as we scope out potential wedding venues.
While I get a little nutty if I go more than a couple of days without writing something, I’ve learned my writing will be stronger – even in the messy first draft stage – if I take a break and let my mind wander through something completely different.
Whatever your line of work, find what nurtures you – a book, some time outdoors, a video game – and make time to embrace it often enough to keep your energy high!
Live the adventure!
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