When I first went back to work after my six months leave without pay, I struggled.
For several reasons, a few coming from the atmosphere at work and many resonating from within me, the first couple of months back at work were rough.
I already knew I wanted to be a writer. Without doubt that was my driving force for change, yet some days I wondered if I was looking back more than forward.
Some days I was fixated on no longer wanting to be a full time personal assistant, instead of focusing on my goal of becoming a writer. On occasion, I become obsessed with what I didn’t want, instead of what I did.
Here are some lessons I learnt during this time.
Focusing on what you don’t want is exhausting
No wonder I felt tired some days after work.
Focusing on what you don’t want is focusing on the negative. Thinking negatively leaves you tired, anxious and worried. Hardly the best mindset to have you functioning at your peak.
Thankfully most days, I did focus on the positive. The days when I was overcome with negativity were definitely the ones I felt drained.
Related post – Stop Obsessing Over What You Don’t Have
There is no satisfaction in running away
Running away will not make you feel good. It will be frustrating, affect your self esteem, confidence and the pride you take in yourself.
Running towards something you deeply desire on the other hand, will fill you with confidence, strength and courage.
Related post – Are You Proud of Yourself?
Figure out what you want
In many regards I was lucky. I knew what I wanted and I had a plan to make the opportunity happen.
So what happens when you have no idea what exactly it is you want? If this is the case, it’s time to do some serious soul searching.
If you need help to discover what makes you want to dive out of bed in the morning, then call for reinforcements. Speak to career counsellors, mentors, coaches, your most trusted friends. Head to a good bookstore. Look on the Internet. There are many great books, websites and blogs that can help you decide exactly what it is you want to achieve.
Related post – 6 Life Changing Steps to Becoming The Person You Want to Be
Do more of what you love
I realize now (isn’t hindsight a wonderful thing) the one thing I should have done to get me through the days when I felt negative – I should have wrote more.
Writing and being creative was what I needed, what I was craving. Spending more time writing would have made me happier.
If you are struggling, the message is clear – do more of what you love.
Related post – Energy, Self-Awareness and Doing What You Love
Keep your eye on the goalposts
I’m sure in some form or another, I have mentioned this several times on this blog.
I mention it multiple times because it is so important. You have to keep your eye on the prize. You have to stay strong, focused and keep working towards your goal.
Don’t give up. If you get knocked down, get back up and keep running.
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I am not sure as of today if I am contemplating running away from something or running toward something. In all appearance, it would see that I am planning near-future moves to run away from my current situation. But oh, what a relief it will be and will also provide me the freedom to change my entire life. I am driven to completely end my current situation, but is it the right move for me….?
Hey Heidi
Thank you so much for commenting. Of course not knowing your whole story I can’t tell you what is the right thing but I do know that deep down YOU actually know!! Trust your instincts. It sounds like you are ready for a change and are ready to embrace the next step. The thing to watch out for is if you are trying to leave your problems behind by making a change. Our luggage unfortunately goes with us so as long as you have your ‘luggage’ is under control, I would say full steam ahead for the next phase.
I like what you said about having the freedom to change your life. We all have that!! Woo hoo to that. The thing to remember is that if you take a leap and it doesn’t turn out the exact way you want it to you have the power and freedom to try something else. On the other more positive note if you take a leap and everything goes wonderfully than again with the woo hoo!!
Trust your gut and what you believe in your heart is the right step for you.
All the best and again thank you for reaching out. I look forward to seeing you here again soon. Stay in touch.
Cheers
Thea