Free=Freedom?
I recently embarked on an unexpected adventure that has resulted in a substantial perspective change for me. After losing my job to a downsizing, I took no time to get busy doing something to keep me sharp and maintain a productive existence. A friend of mine recently started an amazing company, but he is in bootstrap, start-up mode; he needs to be lean and focus resources on his product. So a typical job was not in the cards at this time. Speaking over dinner, we both decided that I might be able to help him dial some things in for his company.
I didn’t expect to fall in love with the job, the product and the people there, but I have. The vibe, the freedom and the belief that the company is on to something amazing are the perfect combination for a life changing experience. The only downside is that income is a delayed thing–and I have immediate needs.
So, what do I do with this experience? Stripping money from the equation has taught me how to bridge the function of work and how to make what I do meaningful in a real sense. Its not about income this time (because it can’t be), its about making progress and making wherever I am a better place. My presence needs to add value and the place I work needs to foster personal growth.
I forgot what work was about for me when I entered the work force. When I was in a mode of service in the Air Force and in college, work was meaningful without financial enrichment. I was striving to make a difference for the sake of making a difference and I maintained a humble financial existence yet achieved the best milestones of my life and my career in those periods. It was mindset, perspective.
I need to revitalize that sense of work in me. I thank my friend David for allowing me to remember this.
I do, indeed, have financial needs that are not being met because of the “down-sizing” to which I fell victim. But I am thankful for this experience and in the end, I know in my heart I will find the perfect marriage between financial needs and true professional “growth.” Who knows… maybe my dream job will end up paying the bills too.
~DK
