Back to the Grind
I’m starting a full-time job tomorrow. It’s back to the daily grind which I’m looking forward to and dreading at the same time. While I’ve enjoyed my time working freelance, it’s become apparent that this is what is best for my family’s financial stability. But the early alarm, commuting, and lunch packing have me less than thrilled.
I’ve learned more than I imagined this year, both professionally and personally, and I’m thankful I was afforded the opportunity to spend most of my 42nd year exploring who I am and who I want to be. I hope you’ll indulge me as I share a few of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned.
Structure is my friend. The thing I was most looking forward to when I started this experience was being able to work whenever I chose. While in theory that is great, in reality life gets more hectic and harder to manage when you don’t have set hours to focus on work. I tried, usually less than successfully, to structure my day appropriately, but inevitably something was always coming up—kids’ doctor appointment, volunteering at school, running an errand for Jason. And while this bucks the trend of flexible working and work from home that most companies are finally moving towards, I now realize I’m most productive when I have a set time to be focusing on projects.
There is no escaping accountability. Going into this experience I was most excited about not having to answer to anybody. Boy, I was wrong. Working in the gig economy means more accountability and directly to the person signing, or not signing, your check. And ultimately you’re always responsible to yourself anyway. I know any time I’ve not tried my best, I’m kicking my own ass even if I’ve gotten accolades from those around me.
Work is transactional. Working on projects instead of in a full-time position in overtly transactional. For way too long I assumed work was more about loyalty which has led to disappointment. I’m excited to start this new position with a healthier approach. Sure, work is a relationship, but ultimately I’m giving my time and expertise in exchange for money. It’s a professional agreement, not a marriage and remembering that will help me to keep the arrangement in balance.
Beyond these three biggies, I’ve gotten real about my weaknesses and my strengths, I’m more in tune with what I enjoy doing rather than what I wish I enjoyed doing, and I’ve developed realistic expectations about what work is and how it should fit into my life. All of these will be invaluable as I start this new adventure. Onward and upward!
While I know it’s not feasible for most to take a sabbatical, I challenge you to explore your relationship with work. What projects do you enjoy most? What elements do you dread? How is your mindset affecting how you do your job? Are you happy with the way work integrates with your personal life?
As always, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a line at mollie@midlifepickle.com or comment below.
