The definition of an accomplished career is different for everyone, depending on individual goals. I think I have a unique situation in which I have a career I strive for, but an every day job that is fantastic. A job that I am very happy in, regardless of the fact that it isn’t totally in alignment with the career goals closest to my heart.

So what makes a job different from a career? Why is a job for one person a career for someone else? In my opinion, it depends on what you pinpoint at the very depth of your development as a lifetime career goal. What activity brings you fulfillment beyond any other? What will you continue to work toward even if it isn’t something you can step into immediately after college? What makes you truly happy? And what is it that at the end of your lifetime you will be truly proud that you accomplished? Regardless of your answers to these questions, we all have one thing in common – the goal of no regrets.

Now that can mean a lot of things in the various aspects of our lives. For me, it’s to write and publish books when it comes to a professional career. That dream is slowly but surely coming true. But not without the help of colleagues in my every day job. The connections I have significantly contributed to the solidification of that dream. The support and feedback I have received has been invaluable. Too many people work in jobs they consider mundane and pointless to pay the bills while working to fulfill their real career dreams in their free time. I feel blessed that I am not in that position. I’m excited to go to work every day, even if it is work. And sometimes hard work. But it is worth it because it has lead me to develop wonderful relationships with people I consider irreplaceable.

So for those of you I work with (if you read this), thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your interest in what I am doing outside of my every day job has propelled me forward, and I could never repay you for that support. If I can return the favor using some of the skills I’ve developed in this fabulous job, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Okay…I’ll stop rambling. I’m feeling very humble this evening for a variety of reasons. I saw a quote on a student’s computer last year that has stuck with me – one that I would venture to say I may live my life by these days. I’ll end with that tonight…I hope it gives you something to think about.

“Build your own dream. If you don’t, you will live your life working to build someone else’s.”    -Unknown