Striking Out

Rediscovering my mojo was huge. Once I happened upon that and took some time to rediscover myself, I finally found myself much happier. More content with life and where it was going. And more determined to ensure that, despite everything else, I was going to live my life the way I wanted and do the things that were truly important to me.

There are still days and weeks that are tough, but that's to be expected in any life. We go through periods of feeling lonely, stressed, unloved, and unworthy. But finding that inner mojo makes coming out of those times a very do-able proposition. I have had the opportunity, desire, and drive to ensure that I continue to move forward in my life DESPITE the setbacks, roadblocks and other things that make it seem, at times, impossible.

Having a plan and forecast was also essential. Approximately one year ago I had finally decided to get my career on track. That required me to take a position that, while a significant pay increase, was also a significant cost increase and still paid WAY below area averages for that position. BUT, it would get my career headed in the direction I wanted. The company had poor reviews. I knew the pay was low. Despite that, I knew it would give me a resume that could move me into what I really wanted to do and keep me looking forward.

Don't get me wrong - I loved my work. I thoroughly enjoy what I do on a daily basis. There have been some perks such as telecommuting a couple days a week and a company phone. Since this job was a stepping stone, however, I've had to redirect myself into my future, and unfortunately there are other opportunities that in the long term will serve me better than my current position as the company has lived up to all of its poor reviews, much to my disappointment (since I really do enjoy my work).

Paying the bills and paying off debt, however, are taking priority, as is moving forward in an industry that has a little more to offer, so I began my job search. Much like the last time, I wasn't seeking "a job" but instead was looking for the "right job." A little research and I came across a few opportunities that matched and put my now updated resume out there. One of the companies replied, and a phone interview was arranged. That seemed to go well, and an in person interview was scheduled. Long story short, after another phone interview, a verbal offer now stands on the table.

While my negotiating skills still need some serious work, the offer the job presented is what I was HOPING for - so, rather than feeling the need to negotiate to get into what I wanted, it put me where I needed without negotiations. I'm guessing I could have bargained out a bit more, but to be honest, when something is hitting your target, what else do you ask for? More is nice, but I got a little more than the initial discussion, so I'm not complaining.

I gave the option to my present employer to come a little closer to this a couple months ago. I was told it wouldn't happen, maybe after another 6 months, and if I needed to look around, well, so be it. So be it it was, and here I am. Part of me wishes I didn't have to leave, but I know looking at the bigger picture this is the wiser decision. I'm excited about the prospects here and look forward to what it has to offer.