She Strengthens

Navigating the Twists and Turns of My Career Journey

As I reflect on my career path, I’m reminded that it’s been a winding road filled with unexpected detours and valuable lessons learned. When I graduated from college, I thought I had it all figured out – I’d be a Broadway star, no question. But life had other plans.

From Theater to Teaching

Fast forward to today, and I’m a theater teacher at an independent school in Boston, with a side hustle as a writer for various publications. It’s not exactly the spotlight I envisioned, but I’m still surrounded by art, and that’s what matters.

The Myth of Arrival

Do we ever truly arrive at our final career destination? I doubt it. For those of us who are driven and ambitious, there’s always another milestone to reach, another goal to chase. And that’s what keeps us motivated.

Mistakes Made, Lessons Learned

Looking back, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes. But instead of dwelling on them, I’ve chosen to learn from them. Here are a few key takeaways:

Majoring in Misconceptions

I used to think my college major determined my career. Not true. My theater degree taught me valuable skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management – all essential for teaching and writing.

The Elusive Dream of Fulfillment

I expected to feel satisfied and fulfilled immediately. But the truth is, that desire for fulfillment is what keeps us moving forward. It’s what drives us to continue learning and growing.

Social Media Myth-Busting

I was afraid of being “found out” on the internet, but I’ve learned that having a professional online presence is crucial. It’s all about striking a balance between being current, trendy, and age-appropriate.

Fear of Competition

I let fear of competition hold me back from pursuing my writing dreams. But I’ve discovered that it’s not about being the best; it’s about asking the right questions and being willing to take risks.

The Art of Saying No

In the beginning, I said “yes” to everything, thinking it would make me more likable. But I’ve learned that saying “no” is essential for maintaining boundaries and avoiding burnout.

Dressing for Success (or Not)

I used to think I had to dress like a “professional” to be taken seriously. But now I know that personal style is just that – personal. My wardrobe is a fusion of work and play.

Success in Perspective

I’ve learned to keep my successes in perspective. Celebrate every win, but don’t get too caught up in your own hype. Stay grounded, and remember that there’s always room for growth.

Standing Up for Myself

Lastly, I’ve learned to stand up for myself professionally. It’s not always easy, but asserting myself has earned me respect and confidence.

As I look back on my journey, I’m grateful for the twists and turns that have led me to where I am today. It’s not perfect, but it’s mine – and that’s all that matters.