What Should I Be When I Grow Up?

Apr 16, 2012 by Nathan    No Comments    Posted under: Musings

I thought I was all grown up. I’m turning 36 this year, have the beautiful wife, the three smart kids, the good job, the riding mower, the two cars, the house, etc… I’m all set right? I sure thought so, until my employer decided to “break up” with me. I loved my employer. I was making a positive contribution and solving problems. I really enjoyed my work, but now it’s over and I’m kinda heart-broken. How can this be? What went wrong? What am I going to do? Some of the questions will remain unanswered and that’s ok. Looking back at the last 10 years, I have no regrets. I worked hard, accomplished a lot and I’m confident that I’ll find something just as meaningful. I’m cautiously optimistic that I’m going to find something even better.

What should I be when I grow up?

I asked this question to one of my favorite writers/bloggers James Altucher. He had a great reply, “Be Yourself”. I think some introspective soul-searching is exactly what I need right now. I have many skills and interests. I have connections and a wide-reaching network. I’ll be ok.

Who should I be when I grow up?

I never really thought much about that when I was a kid. I didn’t want to be a policeman or fireman. I didn’t want to be a doctor or artist. I just wanted to help people and use my skills in technology to make their lives easier. Technology is only the means to an end, and that end is an easier life, work, business, or whatever. I can do a lot of things and many of them very well. Is there another employer who needs me? Maybe. Or is there another opportunity just waiting to revel itself. It’s my “opportunity in hiding” and I’m going to find it.

At this moment it’s hard and the unknowns are scary. However, I’m a strong believer that everything happens for a reason and that God’s plan is perfect, even if I don’t understand it. If He’d only make it a little bit easier!

Thank you all for the kind words, understanding nods, and encouragement during all of this. We’ll be ok.

Got anything to say? Go ahead and leave a comment!