A Job is Not Just a Job

“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” – Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

Many Transitions

I recently landed a job that feels truly promising, not because of a huge paycheck or a high-profile title, but because it offers a chance to play to my strengths, engage with like-minded people, learn new ways of working, and contribute to a vision bigger than mine. Most importantly, this job allows me to experience the West Coast lifestyle — not as a tourist, student, or retiree, but as an active community member.

Although Canada has been my home for over thirty-seven years, I've mostly stayed in Ontario. I’ve always desired to live in British Columbia, but the opportunity never presented itself until now. I’ll be navigating this new chapter as an IT professional, lifelong learner, and urban minimalist, balancing work, study, and leisure in a way that feels true to who I am.

Mixed Feelings

Reflecting on the personal mission statement I crafted back in 2009 — "I live to inspire, equip, and mobilize people to live life to the fullest" — I realize how aligned this new role feels. I’m energized by the opportunity to continue climbing, developing, and contributing meaningfully to a growing organization. But embracing the future also means letting go of the past. The precious moments that shaped me are like fossils, rich with history. I'm not carrying the physical objects tied to those memories; rather the experiences are woven into my character, embodied in my being.

Yet, there are emotional challenges. Loved ones and close friends are not in the same place. Moving from Ontario to British Columbia means some will be farther away, while others will be closer. Most of my family and close friends remain in Ontario, but my sister's family is in Seattle and San Francisco. The pandemic taught us all how to stay connected despite distance. I’ll continue to find ways to keep in touch and cherish every moment we spend together.

To Bring or Not to Bring

Now, I'm deciding which shoes to pack for Vancouver, BC — a small but symbolic decision. It's one example of how I prioritize and get things done as a high achiever. As a project manager, PhD student, agile coach, mother of four, grandmother of three, and caregiver to my elderly mother, I juggle multiple, sometimes conflicting, priorities daily.

Having a "North Star" is like keeping an eye on a compass; it guides me when I hit a roadblock or need to recalibrate after missing a turn. My life mission statement (mentioned earlier) serves as my North Star. If it is God's will, I will continue following it. There are no guarantees in life except death, but I will make the most of each step on this journey. Life is filled with transitions and interludes, let’s make them count.

My Wish for You

I hope you, too, will develop a life mission statement to guide you as your North Star. In a future post, I'll share tips on how to create one that truly resonates with your values and aspirations. I also want to share some highlights in job hunting in these uncertain financial times. Let me know what topics interest you. I love hearing your comments and questions. For now, let’s focus on what truly matters, live simply, and dream boldly.