This weekend, someone in GOP Leadership did just that. Pointed out my skill set and accomplishments. It was a much appreciated compliment (some of you understand why more than others). Then, less than 24hrs later, a company outside of the political realm said nearly the same thing.
Okay, okay, this is not about me, I promise. Hang with me here. The piggy-backed compliments made me start thinking -- what could I do outside of politics? When I was looking to get on the Hill October-January I had tunnel-vision. When outside offers came, I ignored them. No matter how good. I had one goal in mind and I wasn't wiling to settle for anything less.
But now, just for fun, I'm wondering what I COULD do off the Hill if I was ever willing to leave politics behind.
Which brings me to the question -- how many of us limit where we can go and what we can accomplish by over-idealizing where we are?
Take me -- I'm so hell-bent on being a "DC-lifer" that I don't even think twice about what lies outside of my quaint little political world. I've in essence, stuck myself here for life. Granted nothing actually contractually binds me to this town, but mentally I just can't get away from it. I wouldn't want to. I happy. Content.
There's possibility out there though. A life that lives on the other side of "politico" that beckons me from time to time. If for no other reason than I wonder where creativity can take me if I ever latched on it long enough to allow it to whisk me away from my fair capital.
I absolutely LOVE your blog & this post! I definitely see what you're saying. I think we all get so comfortable where we are, that we really dont think twice about doing something a little different.
ReplyDeleteIt's true. Many times people forgot this. Skill sets are needed, but they can certainly transcend a specific employment area! Freedom comes with this realization. xoxo
ReplyDeleteI am in the process of going outside of my comfort zone and going back to school to become a teacher. Shhh...its totally hush hush for a little while longer from my current job. But knowing that the is a day in the near future where I will be doing something that I am passionate about....excites me.
ReplyDeleteSo I say, just find your passion. If its in DC in the poli world....go for it, and live it to the fullest. If its something else, than you will rock at that too!!
I've actually had this same conversation several times with my husband. Just because you DO one thing, and are good at it, does not mean you can't take those good things to a different area, location, company, etc. It takes some time to sit down and see where you really do have the experiences needed to cross into X - or to see that what you have experiences in would really be beneficial to Y type company. It's also a great feeling to know that you can be versatile and willing to learn about yourself in the process, go get em!
ReplyDeletedon't forget, you dont have to choose...i do both and wouldn't change it. remember you are in control...even if it feels like you arent
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