During my last job search, I was up for a director of communications position at an exclusive private girls’ school on the Main Line. For those who don’t know, The Main Line is a section of the Philadelphia suburbs right outside of the city. It is home to some of the wealthiest communities in the country.
I had several interviews with the administrators, and in the final round, I learned I was one of two people being considered. In the end, I lost.
But I also won. A few weeks later, the school was under fire for systemic racism on campus. As the communications director, I would have quickly found myself in the middle of a publicity crisis. So, I dodged a bullet and decided that not getting the job was meant to be.
Over the last few weeks, I’ve received a few rejection emails from different organizations. Instead of getting upset, I’ve decided that the outcome was meant to be. While I’m not a big believer in what people say is “G-d’s plan,” I do feel like I’m being pulled in a different direction. I have been sitting on my ideas and dreams for a long time and have decided that now is the time to make those things happen. I’m not ready to share anything just yet, but things are in the works. For the first time, I’m listening to my heart and gut and know that I will land on my feet.
In the meantime, the flexible schedule is nice, and I’m also working toward several professional certificates. I’m still applying for jobs while keeping up with social media trends and nonprofit marketing strategies. Even though I’m not working full-time, I’m investing in ways to improve myself so that I am prepared when called upon to share my expertise.
Meanwhile, I am focused on one of my quote cards that reads, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” If that is the case, here I am. I’m at the border, ready to step out. I’m excited to be here. I’m leaving my safe space to meet new people and learn what life still has to offer. I’ve already met some folks who have welcomed me into the fold. I know there are more who want to share their dreams with me and see how we can support one another. I can’t wait to meet them.
It’s a little stressful. The term “comfort zone” was coined by a businessman who believed that to achieve high performance, one has to experience a certain amount of stress. Well, over the last six months, that box has certainly been checked off multiple times. But then, I think about how it will look when I’m successful again on my terms.
I’m looking forward to it.
Have you ever been at the end of your comfort zone? Were you excited? Nervous? What was it like for you there?
XO,
Elisa
Kate Loving Shenk
January 27, 2024 at 12:57 am (7 months ago)I’ve left my comfort zone too many times to count. Now I look at it differently. If I can enjoy everything I do, without exception: that is true success.
Elisa
January 27, 2024 at 12:48 pm (7 months ago)Amen to that!
Jeanine Byers
January 27, 2024 at 12:15 am (7 months ago)Good for you! I feel like you can’t go wrong when you listen to your heart. And I agree, you dodged a bullet with that one job. I hope that life on the edge of your comfort zone leads to the best thing you could possibly imagine.
Bob Krantweiss
January 27, 2024 at 5:53 am (7 months ago)I think that is about the best wish anyone can give.
Elisa
January 27, 2024 at 12:49 pm (7 months ago)Thank you, Jeanine. I am taking your words to heart and hope you are right. 🙂
Karen
January 26, 2024 at 10:11 pm (8 months ago)Every time you step out of it, your comfort zone gets a little bigger. Keep up the good work Elisa…before you know it you will be fearless!
Elisa
January 27, 2024 at 12:50 pm (7 months ago)Thanks! Fearless is definitely the goal. 🙂
Bob Krantweiss
January 26, 2024 at 9:39 pm (8 months ago)I am MORE THAN GLAD that you did not take the job that is in trouble now for racism! It was WONDERFUL when I worked on two careers and felt that I was MY OWN BOSS in both. WITH YOUR MULTIPLE TALENTS TO OFFER A BUISNESS, you could always go back to the place where you left off now. My wife always gave me valuable advice that saved me from big errors. You might want to ask her in one of your conversations, as you should your husband.
Lily Leung
January 26, 2024 at 8:54 pm (8 months ago)You got my admiration. I’m not good at leaving my comfort zone. I fret and have tons of butterflies fluttering in my tummy just stepping out. Good luck with your plans.
Elisa
January 27, 2024 at 12:51 pm (7 months ago)Thanks Lily. Oh I definitely have butterflies, but I’m hoping they subside. They usually do.