“I used to have a big career in corporate-America.” That’s what I used to tell people after I left my job to pursue my purpose. I was crystal clear on who I used to be, but had no idea who I would become. For years, I worked in a female dominated industry, but ironically, most of the top executive jobs went to the men in the company. I started out as a clerk-typist making $7.77 per hour.
I always wanted to do good work and make a positive impact on people’s lives. I never cared about the money – until I started making a lot of money. I worked hard and got promoted over and over until I realized I was getting further and further away from my purpose and no longer felt good about what I was doing. It wasn’t anyone’s fault. I just knew I was meant to do something else with my life and didn’t know how to get out. Eventually, I accepted an executive position and a chance to be one of two women sitting in a board room full of men. Ok, ok. It also meant a big fat salary. I learned a lot – a lot about the industry, a lot about people and a lot about myself.
Eventually, the newness and excitement wore off and again, I felt disconnected from my real purpose. I had been working with a coach for two years who even suggested that maybe I’d want to consider becoming one too. To me, coaching was more of a hobby. I had done it informally for years, but never considered making a career out of it. Determined to find another way and another career, I started doing one personality and career assessment after another wondering, “Is this the quiz that will change my life?”
None of them had the answer I wanted.
Many of them suggested I become an artist/performer, because I’d always loved to sing, but none of them told me how to get over the minor obstacle called “dread of singing in public.” As I continued my search, what I heard over and over was someone else’s fear or limiting belief:
• You’ll never make a lot of money.
• It’s really, really hard.
• It’s irresponsible.
• Work isn’t supposed to be fun.
Believing them, meant giving up and that simply wasn’t an option. I had to find another way. I asked for a sign and before I knew it, I got a call about a job in Hawaii. Yes, Hawaii. After a great deal of thought, I remembered a quote from Lao Tsu, “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” I continued to meditate and ask, “If this is where I’m supposed to go, then make it happen. If not, please take it away.” The next day, the job opportunity went away and once again, someone asked, “Have you ever considered becoming a coach?” I was finally ready to let go of what I was. And when I did, I stopped hitting roadblocks and moved right into the fast lane. Doors started to open and all the right people started showing up at just the right time.
Letting go can be scary and sometimes it can feel like a loss, but it can also be the greatest opportunity to live out your wildest dreams. Think about your own dreams. What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to accomplish? If you let go of what you are, what might you become?
Gina Gomez is a Certified Life and Business Coach and the Founder of What Moves You Life Coaching™. To learn more about Gina or download her free workbook to help you discover your own purpose, check out www.ginagomez.com
