My son graduated from college a few weeks ago and while we were at dinner celebrating, the question was asked; "so what do you plan to do next?" Although he has been diligently working at a bar/restaurant for 3 years and has risen to a fairly lucrative bartender position, this in the eyes of a well meaning relative, is not a "real job" for a college graduate. My son confided in me that he has felt pressure from peers and professors to get "out there" and find a good job in the corporate world or a worthy social institution (like the government?). He asks; why? Why does everyone want me to conform to an 8 to 5 office job of 40+ hours a week and 50+ weeks a year of routine work?

Jon enjoys the odd hours and changing shifts of the hospitality industry. He’s a natural at assisting in celebratory events and ensuring patrons have a "good time". Jon loves people! That is why he majored in psychology. What better place to be around people and use one’s insights into human behavior than in a hospitality and recreation establishment?

As an undergrad, he was elected social chair in his frat house, then member recruitment chair, Pan-Hellenic council member and in just 2 years he was elected president. A natural P.R. person, who loves meeting new people, creating collaborations, and organizing fun events, he would wither in mundane routine work and be bored in a desk job. He enjoys working nights, having days to venture to the lake, play golf, go hiking, and go to the stores when they aren’t crowded (yeah, me too!). He makes a good income, has decent benefits and enjoys a sense of camaraderie in his workplace. In short, his job suits him well at this point in his life.

How about you? Is your work fulfilling you? Are you in a job or career of your own choosing or did you land there by default? We often strive to conform to what’s expected of us by our family, our social group, our culture. Listen to your own inner wisdom…are you truly in work that fits your personality, your lifestyle, your talents? If the answer is no, consider other possibilities for working in the world.

Here are some upcoming events that may help you find a different career path:

      UPCOMING EVENTS

Coming to Madison July 14 and 15, 2006   Concourse Hotel, Friday 8am - 6pm and Sat.  8:30pm - 4pm

For more information and to register for this event, please go to:  http://tinyurl.com/f89eo

If you have ever thought about quitting your job and creating your own enterprise, do not miss this!  And to keep your momentum going consider attending these workshops:

Are you seeking fulfilling work? Can’t seem to find a right fit to your unique package of talents and skills? Please join us! Through facilitated discussion and interactive exercises you will learn:

The 6 Principals for Aligning with your Life Mission

Where you are losing creative energy and how to plug these leaks

The role of intention and attention in creating your calling

To identify your gifts and talents and how they relate to the world of work

Want some techniques to help you identify your unique blend of gifts and abilities and how they relate to the world of work? Then please join us!

Through group brainstorming we’ll explore your vocational possibilities. Mind mapping, is a powerful tool that stimulates both sides of the brain.  

You’ll learn how this webbing technique can help you in everything from planning a vacation to developing a business plan.

Please contact Coleen to reserve a seat at:  (608) 836-1706 or Dee at (608) 513-9675 Your investment in learning Mind Mapping;  $20

   QUOTE CORNER

"…doing work you love is the dizzying path of saying yes to yourself and yes to a brilliant, hidden self you do not yet know. Yes, I will follow my creative instincts even over the thin edge of that forbidden cliff and through the seas and marshes and forests of an emotional, mental, and spiritual transformation. Yes, I will step into the tingling territory that beckons me from beyond. Yes, I will dare to become more than I ever dreamed by saying yes to the dreams that tug at me like spirit children trying to reveal to me another life. After all, this heart-drumming, soul-thrumming vocational pilgrimage is not about changing job descriptions and salaries in the known world. It’s about changing what we know."

    ---- Tama Kieves, from her book; This Time I Dance, Trusting the Journey of Creating the Work You Love

Tama will be coming to Madison in mid-Oct as part of her book tour. This dynamic presenter (and friend of mine!) loves getting people jazzed to live an inspired life and is available to speak and conduct workshops in the Madison area (and beyond). If anyone has ideas of organizations or events that might be interested in having Tama as a presenter, please contact me. Stay tuned for details! You can visit Tama’s site at: www.awakeningartistry.com Thanks!