That’s what I kept asking myself before each interview. My answer - it's not a fit.
Now that might seem like a negative way to regard the process of pursuing a new opportunity, but I like to think it was a reassurance. At an uncertain time and a pivotal point in my life, I considered the possibility of taking the plunge.
So, here I am reflecting on my first three weeks working on the consulting side for entreQuest. I am incredibly thankful.
Research shows disengaged employees account for roughly 70% of the workforce, and I didn’t want to be one of those people. It was my moment of truth. I had tough conversations with my family who kept telling me “you're not yourself.” I wasn't. I was working in a thoughtful place serving the next generation, but where I was in my life, it wasn't a fit. And I wanted different, but I was hesitant of the unknown, the what-ifs. The self-doubt was suffocating.
So I bucked up. I took what I knew about being professional, honest, and courteous, and I informed my leadership this was not an ideal fit for me (at this time). As much as I respected my place of employment, and felt fortunate to have the opportunity to work with dedicated teachers and insightful staff, something was missing. Finding the courage to follow through on my commitment to myself led to a snow ball effect. From there, I was met with surprise, expectedly, and also, understanding.
I realize not all employees feel comfortable approaching their boss about their feelings, and if you're one of those people you need to have a real gut check. Why aren't you comfortable talking with your supervisor about where you want to go in life? What would it take to become comfortable? Then ask yourself if it’s worth remaining where you are if you feel the way you do. I reasoned this was the right time to explore options.
Was it scary? Yes. Thrilling? Very! A challenge? Absolutely.
I was inspired by my husband who was going through his job transition and reinventing his professional identity, and I was so fortunate to have such sound support at home and respect at work. So I took the leap of faith. I knew when I was offered the chance to join eQ that my life was about to change. I was choosing to embrace it, not hide from it.
On March 2nd, as I awoke a year older, I wished my husband good luck on his first day at his new job and prepared to begin mine. My motto has always been – live life, and make sure it’s a good story I want to tell later. Written down, that seems obvious … simple. But for me, it’s true north. It’s the reason I feel eQ is my perfect fit. At eQ, we are continually focused on the story of our clients. We’re committed to helping them grow by paying careful attention to their culture – what makes them tick, who they attract, and who they serve and why.
Now take a minute to contemplate this. You, me, your colleague, your neighbor, your loved ones – we are just people. So why should we spend even a second not being who we are, doing what we love? It's about being true to oneself. It’s about letting go of your fear. So go be you. Start today. Enjoy the process, and reap the yumminess that comes from making bold decisions.
