I remember the day I decided to become an accountant like it was yesterday! I was a junior in high school and my cousin Gelesa and I were riding with our mothers through this really nice neighborhood over the weekend. We past through the luxurious homes while imagining the lifestyle of the people living in them.
We drove to the end of the street that was surrounded by a beautiful lake. I looked to the right and saw the most beautiful house with a nice boat in the back yard, and my mouth just dropped.
I asked my mom “Mama, how can I live like this?” She told me “Well you’re great in math, and being an accountant can help you live like this”. Of course she and my older cousin talked about other options, but all I heard is that I liked math and accounting can get me this lifestyle.
Fastforward to when I was hired at my first job as an accountant. I remember sitting in the lobby feeling that the building was too beautiful and this job was too good for me. I was so nervous. I got the job and on my second day I sat in my desk and thought to myself “Oh my God, what have I done? I am not going to be here long!”
Now here we are, almost 5 years later and I am at the same job. I walked around the office like a zombie for 2 years until I realized how unhappy I was being an accountant. I realized I had made a wrong decision in my career by only thinking about the money and not considering my passion.
Well something had to be done…but I first had to make some changes so I my next move could be the right move.
These things help me get through the day while I am creating my new career:
Keep Positive Thoughts
I have noticed the more I focus on how much I don’t like my job or the shoulda, woulda, couldas, I dread going to work even more. I have quite a bit to do before walking away from my job, so I don’t want to be miserable while I am there. Think positive thoughts while you are preparing to make a career change. It will help brighten your day and keep your mind in a positive space.
Sometimes I try to focus on things that make me excited to get ready for work. I have to admit having something cute and comfy to wear to work always helps me on the days I want to call in. I have worn this dress to work twice since getting it from Dia & Co in early September. It fits beautifully, and I don’t have to wear a girdle. (similar here) It has been the best thing on the days I need a little more motivation.
Remember why you are there
If you can’t think of one reason why you should stay at a job you hate, then it is the perfect time to leave! On the other hand if you have networking to do, assets to pay off, or something important to learn, remember that when you are feeling down. It will remind you that this job has a purpose and that will help motivate you until you are able to move on.
Find your purpose and passion
My mistake when choosing a career was focusing solely on the money. I had so many other talents to consider when trying to decide what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. So now that you have already made that mistake, take your time with your next choice and pick something that lies within your passion. What is it that drives you out of bed in the morning? What is the first thing you think about when you wake up? Now…how can you make that a career?
I hope this post helps you guys. How many out there have went through, or is currently going through the same thing that I am? Comment below.
Same here! I find that you have to read and just search your soul for what you want to do. Sometimes we don’t know what we want but we know this ain’t it! Good post!
Thanks Love! This is exactly what we need to do. And even then, there are some times when our lives and interests change and we may have to switch things up in our careers.