Being Well-Rounded and What it Means to Put Yourself First

It’s understandable that anyone just starting out in their career can become hyper focused, making their career goal their number one priority - thinking about that ultimate success. Who doesn't want to be set for life at a young age? Not to say that’s the wrong move, however for myself, I didn’t think that mindset would lead to my ultimate fulfillment. 

Graduating, I felt like my tank was running past empty… like it was a miracle that I got my degree. I hadn’t been applying for internships as the rest of my peers had been doing since the fall. I couldn’t do it (think about the future); it had felt like I had barely clawed my way across the finish line. So for my last two semesters I was just focusing on getting through the day. I had no regret with my inactivity (although a little worry) because all I could think about was focusing on wanting to live again and healing.

I gave myself the summer to rest, as that’s all that I could think about - resting; I didn't let myself think about my career, but I gave myself a timeline of course. Of which I’m thankful for today, as it taught me how to put myself first.

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It had taken me a long time to figure out what I wanted in a career; I never had a clue (up until the very first week of college really). However, at the same time that I had figured out what I wanted, I also gained the courage to allow myself the possibility of other ideas and passions to pursue in life, not just the one. (But this wasn't easy either - it had taken the pandemic, loss and a lot of soul searching to have that type of confidence in myself.)

As a child, I feared not knowing what path to take or where I'd end up. I had some ideas, but they never pulled through. I'm actually living a life that is more exciting and fruitful than I ever expected. So, I've decided to let go of expectations and go with the flow. I've found happiness in my flexibility in life and within the small joys of the present moment.

In taking my time rather than following the timelines of others...in slowing down to focus on my personal growth and well-being (outside of my career), I have learned that when the time comes I will know how to put myself first and ultimately make the choice that is right for me and that matches my values. No matter how tempting the opportunity, in not compromising these values, I will have made the right decision and have no regrets.

 I have learned that in prioritizing myself and my inner values, my happiness, stability and my self-concept will remain uncompromised. If the opportunity of a lifetime does not match the values or the treatment that I deserve… I can and will say no because in the end I know that I am fulfilled in who I am and what I have in the present moment, not through whatever is highly praised by the egos of others. If the journey is not fulfilling enough, then the end goal will only leave you empty and miserable. And I'm glad to say that I am happy on the journey I am on - even if it may not fit the common path to my desired end goal - because my belief in myself is so strong, I know I will get there, or at least somewhere I'll feel happy and fulfilled.

 I believe that living with that mindset will allow me to end up where I need to be and leave me feeling satisfied and successful - and not living for the standards and expectations of others that could ultimately leave me drained and unsatisfied, as I’ve unfortunately been before.

As I've been working my way back towards my career path, I've allowed myself to explore some of my other passions that led me towards further fulfillment and taught me how to put myself first. Also, giving myself more confidence by doing what others would consider out of the norm. Fall of 2023 I took an automotive course at LBCC.

I choose to find happiness and success in the present and to make life an adventure, with an open mind, being flexible about my goals and how to get there.

I’ve learned not to be too attached to my goals; that it may take another way to get there or just a longer route, but I know I will be self-fulfilled with the highest self-respect by taking the path of balance and grace that I am on and making myself the priority and not the career. I also learned not to go by what others expect of me. When I took my auto course, allowing myself the opportunity to pursue my interest in auto mechanics, for some reason people seemed to be shocked - more so because people expect you to just stick to one career option and not divert from it, but no I did not, and I was much happier for it. At least I can also be proud to say that I'm well rounded as a person and am doing my best at living the one life I have to the fullest. I may not be where the rest of my peers are at, but I'm happy, and I am having fun - which is what I ultimately want from this life.

I will never regret putting myself first, as in the end I know I will get myself where I need to be and still loving myself no matter where I am at through the chaos and the miracles that make up life. 

I’ve learned just how important self-esteem and self-concept are in the workforce, because if you don’t respect yourself, if you don’t have any values to uphold -- how will others respect you? How will you be able to accomplish any goals or dreams if you can't put yourself first? How will you maintain and feel worthy of your desires once you get them? And for this break I have been grateful. Now I can get back to my career path again in full confidence in myself.

Now I'm onto more exciting things :)