As I sit here typing this, it’s been almost a month since I left my job at the end of April. I actually gave my notice at the first of the year, but I stuck around for a few months to help train my replacements and finish up a couple of big projects.
The decision to quit my job was due to a combination of factors…one of which was Tripp’s traveling schedule. But mostly, it was just time. Between work and family and home and creative commitments, my way of life had become unsustainable. Something had to change.
On my last day at work, I was packing up my office and came across a lot of the old stuff that I had boxed up when I left my previous job four years ago. I was surprised at how emotional it made me, but then I realized that I wasn’t just leaving my current job, I was leaving a career and an industry that I had worked in for twenty years. And even though it wasn’t a career that I went to school for or felt especially passionate about, it was a good job (that I was really good at) and a good source of income for my family.
As I have had time to process all of this, I’m still feeling a mix of emotions. I’ve been working since I was 16 years old so this idea that I’m not ‘going to work’ is proving to be a challenging adjustment for me. Plus, there’s this nagging fear in the back of my mind that I might never be that good at something again. But I am trying to remind myself that my worth and my identity are not wrapped up in a job description or a W-2.
So here I am, a month or so into this new chapter of my life. And even though I’m still trying to find my groove…find a rhythm to my days…I’m also feeling more like myself. I’m starting to let go of that panic in my chest from trying to keep up with everything. I’m sleeping better and finding that I feel less stressed in my physical body as well.
Looking ahead, I’m not exactly sure where this path is going to lead. But I am hopeful that I will find a way to use my gifts and talents in creative, gratifying work. And I am stepping out in faith that God will help me navigate this new direction in my life.
Peace, Kelly
About a year ago I had some major life/responsibilitychanges and found myself with free time for the first time in forever. I found a quote that helped me through some transitions—“Let it all go. See what stays.” Enjoy this time.
You just need to write a self book for this of us who can’t figure out how to find that balance. It is a stressful world that demands so much from us. The harder I try to shorten my list the longer it seems to get. Letting go is so difficult and I admire you for taking a step in faith. I’m excited to see where your next steps take you and I just bet we will be greatly blessed when you light?
Kelly, all change is difficult, even the good kind. It’s wonderful to hear of you taking care of yourself.
Good luck in this new life
I ‘ll leave my job in september
a new life for me too
I am glad to know the luxury of time will be with you, time to do the things you want to do, the ability to do things at leisure and not have the beat the clock rushing that is part of working the job. Congratulations. I think this is wonderful news!
Kelly! Good, no GREAT for you!
I have been feeling very much the same way.
But with two girls in college , I have a few more years to go until I can scale back.
But I am happy for you. I just had two girlfriends from law school over for the weekend, one of whom just “retired early”.
She said the best thing about it was she no longer felt she was constantly racing.
That really resounded in my heart ,as I am always racing to fit it all in.
So enjoy this time . For now you are out of the race and can do what you want on your own timetable. It is good for the body and better yet for the soul!