Are You Where You Want to Be, or Where You Need to Be?
“Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible.’” — Audrey Hepburn
The dictionary defines a “want” as a desire or a wish—something we’d like to have, rather than a requirement for healthy living. A “need,” however, is a necessity. It’s something required to live, to succeed, and to truly be happy.
In our professional lives, most of us need a career. But is it the career we want?
I invite you to pause and look at where you are right now. Is it where you envisioned yourself?
The Artist’s Portfolio
When I was starting out as a young adult, my heart was set on becoming an artist. In high school, I spent every possible elective in the art room with my teacher, Ms. Lysak. She was incredible, and I was certain I was going to follow in her footsteps.
I worked a lot on my portfolio—sketches, set designs, pottery. I could only imagine how amazing it would feel to be paid for doing what I loved. The arts filled my life and set a creative foundation for my future, but as life unfolded, that specific path wasn’t in the cards for me.
My husband, Michael, had a similar experience with his mentor, Mr. Johnson. Michael is immensely talented, yet neither of us ended up in the art field.
The Pivot to Purpose
My journey took me from retail and data entry to a 28-year career in corporate insurance. I started as a secretary and eventually served as a Chief of Staff before starting my own practice.
Today, as a Success Coach, Author, Speaker, and Workshop Facilitator, I look back and realize something profound: Our destination wasn’t where we thought it would be, but it is exactly where we are meant to be.
Through my work in the community and as the founder of the “Fill the Purse with Purpose” give-back program, I’ve learned that nothing is limited. When you realize that everything is possible, the “impossible” simply fades away.
The Leap of Faith: Connecticut to North Carolina
Most recently, Michael and I took another leap—leaving the familiarity of Connecticut to start a fresh chapter in North Carolina. This move was a reminder that our journey is never truly “finished.”
Sometimes, being where you want to be requires the courage to leave where you’ve always been. It wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a strategic choice to align our lifestyle with our vision for the future. Whether it’s a career pivot or a physical move, taking an active role in your outcome makes the results so much sweeter.
3 Lessons for a Fruitful Journey
Whether you are leading a team or building a dream, these three principles make the journey worth the walk:
- Trust the Open Doors: Sometimes the door that opens isn’t the one you were knocking on, but it may lead exactly where you need to go.
- Values are Non-Negotiable: No matter the industry or the title, staying true to your core values ensures you never lose your way.
- Commitment Compounds: Hard work and determination always pay off, even if the “paycheck” looks different than you expected.
The Course Correction
At 59, having been a business owner for a decade, I am designing a life of impact. I get to help women manage their time to achieve their most important goals—helping them love their journey as much as I love mine!
I invite you to look at your own journey today:
- Where has your path brought you?
- Are you still on the path that serves you?
- Is it time for a course correction?
Remember, nothing is limited to what you can create. Stay true to yourself. You are worth it!
Pam xx
Ready to Design Your Own Path?
If you are feeling the pull toward a “course correction” but aren’t sure where to start, you don’t have to navigate the journey alone.
- Join The Purpose Den: Surround yourself with a community of women who are actively choosing their path and creating lives they love.
- Read the Journey: Pick up a copy of our community-published book for more stories of transformation and resilience.
- Let’s Work Together: Whether through a workshop or 1:1 coaching, I am here to help you move from where you need to be to where you want to be.
[Click here to explore The Purpose Den and find your next step]
