Resignation

Last week I mentioned a possible job offer and how I was taking the appropriate steps to better prepare myself.

Well, I did in fact receive the job offer. You work so hard to present yourself and your skills in the best way to hopefully receive that job offer. What I didn't know was how I'd end up feeling actually getting the job offer.

The nerves that I didn't feel during the interview were officially live and present. I worked for this and I wanted this, so why was I so nervous?

I think it's normal to be nervous. Sure you wanted this but now you're realizing things are about to change if you accept the offer.

The routines you know and the day to day work you've done for over 3 years aren't going to be there anymore. You're going to work with new people and take on new tasks. You're going to work longer hours but also receive better compensation. There's a give and take that comes with accepting a new job. Does the reward of this new position outweigh the risk of leaving familiarity?

Friday, I called the owner and officially accepted this new position. I felt that I was ready to take on this new adventure and that this was going to be the best fit for me. I'm sure my voice was shaky as I told him my decision but his comment that I "made his Friday with this news" reminded me I was making the right decision.

While I felt so much excitement for what lies ahead with this opportunity, I felt this dread in the back of my mind for what I had to do come Monday morning.

I officially had to resign from my job this morning and state when my last day of work would be.

I think something has to be said when you dread resigning from a job.

Sure, it's awkward to tell someone you're leaving their company but that's not why I dreaded this talk. Some people jump at the opportunity to turn in their two weeks notice because they can't wait to get out of there. This wasn't the case for me either.

I actually enjoyed my job and specifically the people I work with.

I've gotten to experience and learn so many new things during my time here. I've made some great friends who made me look forward to coming to work every day. Sure there were times that sucked but that happens every where.

As I shared my news with my manager and co-workers, they told me how much they'd miss me but understood why I had chosen to leave. I'm glad I was able to have a positive impact on those around me while I was there.

Just a few more weeks until I start this new job. I can't wait to see where things go from here! As so many have told me, this is just another step in adulthood and "Welcome to the real world!".

Never Stop Learning

I wrote a while back about how I was finally graduating from college. On May 22nd, I walked across that stage and was recognized for earning my degree and graduating with honors.

It was a wonderful experience and one I will always remember, especially because I worked so hard for it.

This summer has felt so odd though not taking classes. That had been such a huge part of my routine for so long that I'm actually missing it now.

I've recently had the realization that just because I'm not taking classes doesn't mean I have to stop learning. We should never stop learning.

There's always going to be things out there that we don't know or could learn more about. If we keep ourselves closed off from experiencing new things or learning new ideas, we're keeping ourselves from progressing and becoming better versions of ourselves.

I've been looking for a full-time job now for quite a few months. It's been a process to say the least.
But I've been learning the entire time.

Each phone interview or in person interview gives me more experience and helps me to be better prepared for the next one. I've learned more about myself and my strong suits or areas where I could improve.

After meeting with a company last week regarding a job, I saw that if I was to get the position I'd end up taking on some work I have zero experience in.

For many that's terrifying and even a deterrent from continuing the pursuit of the position. For me, I chose to look at it differently. Yes, it still gave me an uncomfortable feeling. But I'm choosing to view it as more of a challenge than a setback.

It will show I'm a hard worker and can take the initiative before being asked. It shows that I'm resourceful and can find the answer to a problem even if I don't know it off the top of my head. It shows I'm flexible and willing to grow.

I'm a firm believer that if you want something bad enough, you'll work to get it. If I really want this job, I'll work to learn as much as I can so that I could do my job the best I possibly can.

You don't always have to learn from books, not everyone is a reader. Some people are better at learning visually or by doing things hands on. We're fortunate enough to find resources like these right on the web. I could have downloaded or purchased a textbook on the material but instead I found a video series that covers it. Find what works best for you.

Just remember to continue to learn in all things. Don't limit yourself as to what you're capable of.

Who knows, maybe I won't get the job but I'll have new knowledge and maybe even certification I can add to my resume. It's a win either way.