Are you familiar with the phrase "take the road less traveled"?
Oftentimes, people will use that phrase when encouraging someone to try something new--be it traveling, a new job opportunity, moving, etc. The idea behind the phrase is to go against the norm, breaking free from the mold, and pursuing something that may otherwise be considered risky.
For some, the idea of working a standard 9-5, Monday through Friday, weekends off style job is idyllic. For others, the thought of working five consecutive days a week sounds atrocious. Even among the forty some-odd students in my classroom, you'll have a mix of desires. Some students crave the structure and routine, others desire flexibility and the option to "be their own boss". Personally, I fall somewhere in the middle.
At first, the idea of having a non-conventional job seemed impossible. My family consisted of a lot of blue-collar workers, primarily it was made up of trade men and women with a mish-mosh of home makers sprinkled in. Each of these individuals dedicated themselves to a job, profession, or union to make a living for themselves and their family.
By the time my grandmother was my age, she had already had several of my aunts and uncles and had been married for 10 years. Now, that's not to say that there is anything wrong with my lifestyle compared to hers--it is just that there are unique circumstances and differences between the 1960s and 2020s.
I'll never forget when one of my nephews showed me my first Pewdiepie video. For anyone that is unfamiliar, Pewdiepie is a YouTuber that, back when I first watched his videos, recorded let's play horror game playthroughs. As Felix (Pewdiepie) has gotten older, his video content has changed. However, it is likely a result of him growing as a person as well as in his interests. Hopefully, he is making the content that he wants to make instead of doing what others want/expect from him. Needless to say, the idea that someone was playing video games and was making enough money to live and travel off of it blew my mind!
So, what is the point of all of this you may be asking? Well, I am writing to encourage and support others that are staring at that road less traveled.
This blog is meant to document my effort and experiences pursuing my passions--baking, creating, crafting, traveling, and writing. This platform is a way for me to share with others my ups, downs, accomplishments, and obstacles. Also, it is a place for those who feel driven to pursue non-traditional professions to meet, discuss, and ask questions.
Together, I know that we can continue to change the face of the professional industry and pursue our passions!
Book Recommendation: How to Find the Work You Love by Lawrence Boldt
