Sometime Later

“It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.” — Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

I have always been willfully participatory in activities that challenge my aspirations and preconceived notions. As we discussed our career priorities and non-negotiables, I found myself exploring what it means to have a “career” in the modern world. This summer, many people would say “I don’t even know what I want to do when I grow up” even though they were in their middle ages and fully entrenched in a 15-year career. From Chiefs of Staff to VPs at Fortune 500 Companies. I am still interested in why so many individuals said this. Maybe it is the culture of D.C. to spend your early adulthood on Capitol Hill before moving downtown to the private firms. Maybe it is the fact that these individuals are still finding the work they enjoy - but I question why they would stay so long in their current roles if they didn’t enjoy it. With reflection on our class activity, these individuals are clearly still looking for something if they aren’t content with their current position. I wonder how many other career professionals feel this way - or if it is an isolated feeling in D.C. Regardless, I would hate to feel like halfway through my adult years I still had no idea what I loved doing. I frankly hope that it doesn’t happen, and I have been taking steps to ensure it. I have always been someone who tries to keep options and doors open so if I need to make a brief exit, I can.