On the mark, set set, GO!!

I was playing with my grandson in Target yesterday, buggy racing, and Mikey says, "Come on Nanna, on the mark, set set, GO!!"

Prophetic words from such a little fella.  Nanna is definitely "on the mark, set set, GO!!"  In the last year I've quit smoking, graduated from college, changed my eating habits (and a terrible cholesterol number), learned to cook again, started a routine exercise program, started training for a 5K, decided on graduate school, applied to graduate school, lost ALMOST 20 pounds, and [insert DRUM ROLL here ] I am changing jobs.

WHAT???  Changing jobs the same year I turn 50???  Well, why not?  I've been with Piedmont for 11 years.  I've been faithful, hard-working, and loyal.  I have much to offer and sometimes when you stay at the same place you get stuck. 

Sometimes "perception" can be a serious problem related to career growth, and you need a new set of eyes evaluating your skill set, helping to create a new perception.

Someone commented that my journey has been difficult --- at work.  I paused to think --- what exactly do they mean by that?  An "ah ha" moment.......this person seriously intermingled some very personal struggles to my job.  I haven't had a difficult work journey --- but I have had a seriously difficult personal journey.  So you see?  People that you work with come to know you on a personal level, and many times they confuse your "real life" with your work life.  My work has NOT been affected, in any negative way, whatsoever, by my personal struggles. In fact, just the opposite is true. My work is BETTER because of my journey. I see the struggle of the student in a completely new, and compassionate, light.  I became a better employee, and it showed, oh yes, it certainly showed.

So Mikey - I want to thank you sweet boy!  Pushing that buggy really FAST in Target - with you yelling at the top of your lungs --- NANNA ---- ON THE MARK, SET SET, GO!! --- just confirmed what I already knew.......I gotta go :)