Success Comes Through Self-discovery

Have you noticed how surprisingly easy it is to do a job or pursue goals you don’t care about?

I remember hearing a story about a guy who wanted to be a comedian but he decided to be an accountant instead. He said it was a safe and good choice.

Years later–when he was laid off, he realized his decision to become an accountant was based on fear but was masquerading as a “good decision.”

Unfortunately, getting laid off sent him and his family scrambling because he was seeking a job while searching for who he was. (Not an easy thing to do.)

This cautionary tale teaches us the following…

You can fail at what you don’t like, so you might as well take a chance on what you love. 

This familiar story comes in many shapes and sizes because people are often discouraged or afraid to take their own journeys.

Nearly a decade ago, I made a career change from my 9-to-5 job. This decision came during a particularly demanding time, as my wife and I were caring for both a colicky newborn who required frequent nighttime attention and a sweet but energetic toddler.

Many nights, I woke up at 2 am in a cold sweat, questioning my decision to leave the security of my consistent paycheck. However, I can confidently say it’s been one of the best choices I’ve ever made.

Taking a chance, even when it feels scary, can lead to unexpected rewards, as I discovered during my own career pivot.  While initially relying on the tried-and-true methods of others can be a great confidence booster, there comes a time when true fulfillment requires forging your own path.