Wednesday, 31 January 2018

From Idealistic to Realistic with Addendum

Not everyone can say they have their dream job. I am lucky enough to have had a dream job not once but twice. The first time as Collections Manager at the IMNH and the last time as Assistant Director & Collections Manager at the BCHM. Never in a million years did I dream of having such amazing jobs and working with such great people.  Life as a museum professional has been amazing but after 7 months of job hunting it is time to retire the search and move from idealistic to realistic.  In hindsight I wish I had come this conclusion earlier but it is better late than never.

I have realised it's not about doing what makes you happy but being happy and grateful for what you have.  Less than 1% of people have a job they love.  I have been very fortunate to have had my opportunity for working in my dream roles and I will forever remember all that I have learned.  Hopefully this new path will be prosperous because as we know it all comes down to money.

ADDENDUM:
Sometimes we are too hasty with our decisions. Sometimes fear of the unknown and fear of disappointing others leads us to make rash decisions.  Its been an emotional rollercoaster these past few days but I am trying to move forward.  I was looking at this from the wrong point of view, just because I haven't got that "dream"job yet doesn't mean I should give up and do a 180 in terms of career goals.  I had it in my mind that if I couldn't work in a museum then the only thing I could do was apply for minimum wage fast food, cashier roles, and baggage handler.  I flipped the switch completely and as a result pretty much broke down at the thought of having to do this for the rest of my life. I tried to convince myself for 2 days that I wanted to be a cashier for the rest of my life (not that there is anything wrong with that, it is a great job for those that love that type of work).  
Now I'm working on a mix of applications, I'm still pursuing that dream job in the heritage sector, but I'm also looking for other roles that fit my skill set and pay more than minimum wage.  My heart is happy, but my head still tells me that I'm not good for anything more than minimum wage.  

3 comments:

  1. It's almost a rite of passage when we get to this point in our lives. Not only have you been fortunate in having your "dream job", your employers have been fortunate in having someone as dedicated and committed as you. No matter where the job trail may lead from here, you will be successful. You're an optimist,and you get things done. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you continue to search for employment. I'm wishing for "the best is yet to come!"

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  2. It has been fun while it has lasted that is for sure. But at my age I can't afford to hold out for that dream job in the heritage sector or video editing.

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  3. Carli I understand your pain, but I need you to know how proud I am of you. You are undefeatable! You have always had a drive that I have been envious of. You are scary smart and wise and I know you will make this work. It's a scary thing being in a foreign country (albeit one you love) and trying to fit in and make your mark. But I know my girl, and she's unstoppable. I love you to the moon and back.
    Mum

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