Hello! Have you ever found yourself questioning the path your career has taken? Have you wandered through a winding trajectory, much like mine? My journey was more than just rocky—it was a series of missteps, self-discoveries, and realizations that, while challenging, eventually led me to a place of alignment, happiness, and fulfillment. Now, at the wise age of 44, I’m finally thriving in my career. Join me as I share my tumultuous journey filled with ups, downs, and everything in between, hoping you enjoy this ride as much as I did looking back.
The Early Years: Lost and Uncertain
High School Hindsight
In high school, I was lost. Though I excelled in art, societal and self-imposed pressures pushed me towards a mishmash of subjects—chemistry, biology, economics, and math—in a bid to ‘keep my options open.’ Spoiler alert: this didn’t align with what I truly loved.
### University Trials and Tribulations
I dove into the university experience at 17, gravitating towards a Bachelor of Arts, followed by an indecisive switch to Business Arts and eventually Graphic Design. But the truth is, none of these paths resonated with me.
“In my naivety, I thought keeping my options open was the safest bet.”
Discovering Different Worlds: The Many Faces of Experience
The Hospitality Dip
I ventured into hospitality, where I was surrounded by people, constantly on my toes, making order out of chaos. Despite falling into bad habits like drinking, it showed me the joy of working with people.
### Falling in and Out of Love
At 21, I moved to Brisbane for love and enrolled in university for Interior Design—only to drop out again. The eating disorder I battled at the time left me feeling depressed and unwell.
The Dark Path
I touched rock bottom, enduring heartbreak and slipping into alcoholism. Yet, I clawed my way back and relocated to Brisbane again for a Bachelor of Creative Industries—finally, something that piqued my interest.
A Series of Unfortunate Jobs—and Lessons Learned
Retail and Sales: A Soulless Cycle
Working at David Jones and later at a phone sales shop, I soon realized retail wasn’t my calling. From being fired for poor performance (I just had no interest in sales) to slogging through a dull environment, I was deeply unhappy.
### Love for Hospitality Rekindled
After more directional changes, including a stint at a men’s wear store, I found joy working at Blockbuster. I partied hard yet remained devoted to my studies and the lifestyle that came with it.
Entry into the Office World
Moved by love yet again, I trod into the office world with a travel sales job that suited my organizational strengths. This experience set the stage for new opportunities that followed.
Finding Stability—and Myself
Embracing the Defense World and a Major Move
A role at a defense recruitment office was exciting yet entirely new territory. Then, life called for an adventure: London was my next big move, a rite of passage at 27.
“Sometimes life leads you to experiences that carve out the skills necessary for future endeavors you couldn’t even dream of.”
London Calling: Opportunities Abound
In London, I worked at the Healthcare Commission, thriving in a job where I felt utilitarian and accomplished—yet my drinking habits trailed me persistently.
Returning Home: Clarity in Crisis
Temporary Regression
Back in Australia, burdened by routine administration work, I sank into a depressive lull. Manipulating a cocktail of antidepressants and self-doubt, I sought change.
The Defining Decision: Returning to Studies
I went back to university, determined to make a difference through education and counseling. Here lay the turning point, but initially, it didn’t feel that way.
## Realizing a Dream: Fulfillment through Counseling
Worthy Work in Tough Times
Working as a Trainer and Assessor assisting disengaged jobseekers, I finally felt some deeper levels of fulfilment. However, this role was cancelled during COVID-19, so I finally took the plunge to study a Diploma of Counselling—a transformative experience.
Launching My Practice
With renewed vigour, I began Boost Of Joy Intuitive Coaching and Counselling, my private practice, emerging stronger and more purposeful than I ever imagined.
The Journey’s Insight
Acceptance and Growth
It’s been about accepting my nature as a ‘changer,’ someone meant for varied roles and experiences rather than a single path.
Embracing Authenticity
“Authenticity is what has helped me align with what suits me.”
Following your heart, saying no to the wrong things, and yes to the right things shapes your career and happiness in unimaginable ways.
### Embrace Your Path
If you find yourself unsure or stuck, remember that life’s trail is unruly at best, but it’s an unfolding story well worth living. May my journey be a testament to that.
Much love, and may your path lead to spaces that let your heart truly sing.
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