Loving What I Do 15 Jobs and 5 Careers later

If you want a thriving career, you need to love what you do. Most importantly, you should do it with passion and purpose.

Whether you are considering your first career path, or you are wanting a change after years at the same desk, the decision isn't easy.

Contemplating spending the majority of your life doing one thing can be terrifying! Actually, I can't think of many people who wouldn't find that concept terrifying.

Political Staffer

My journey

That's why it's important to find something that makes you excited to get up and go to work!

For me, it literally took a shocking accident to jump-start a change in my career path. I was struggling to maintain both my mental and physical health while working 16-hour days and spending 22 weeks of the year, travelling for work.

Leaving a secure job (at a pay cut) was intimidating. But as nerve-wracking as the decision was, I knew at that moment it was the right thing to do. I was suffering from extreme burnout - it just wasn't sustainable for me to keep up with the lifestyle.

But despite that little sad victim-ish story, I am living proof that sometimes, you need to be prepared to go backwards in life, in order to find the express route to your next move.

And all of this advice is so much easier to give than take but I have been there.

And I think we need to make more noise around how hard it actually is, to take control of your own destiny, because it's really hard.

You'll best tested to run back to the comfort of where you ran from more times than you can even imagine. So you need to be really committed and genuinely passionate about where you're headed, because it's going to be worth it when you love what you do.

Your Own Business

If you are like me, being your own boss sounds like the ultimate dream. Maybe you've spent too many years under leadership that doesn't suit your productivity. Or maybe you just have a kickass idea that you can't wait to share with the world.

As I said, it took literally being hit by a car for me to realise I needed a change. However, starting my own business was always something that appealed to me.

I've heard a number of versions of: "You're very entrepreneurially spirited. You're really good at what you do. You are really good at what you do for everyone. You really want to help people."

My network - plus my ever-growing network - led me to Public Relations, where I'm really in my zone! I love small businesses and helping people grow in their space.

But don't be fooled, PR is much more than launch events and exclusive parties. It's all about building reputations and trust - something that is significant in both the physical and digital space.

Ecommerce Founder and Swimwear Designer

How to Hire

As your own boss, you need to know what kind of people you want to attract. It's also important to set boundaries and have a general idea of the kind of work environment you want.

For me, someone's attitude or energy trumps anything else. It has always been important for me to love who I come to work with. So, I actually really enjoyed creating the Yellowpanda team.

LinkedIn is your best friend when looking to hire as leveraging your network is beneficial. But proceed with caution if you're wanting to hire friends as this can go both ways! Again it's important to set boundaries and communicate your expectations.

However, depending on your personality type, the actual interview process may be the hardest part.

I've either been the interviewer or the interviewee more times than I count on both hands and I've definitely learnt some things over the years.

Your Journey

Running a business isn't for everyone, and I am so glad that's the case because entrepreneurs can't build a company alone.

Some say making your hobby your job is the best way to go! Some disagree.

I think that it is different for everyone. If you can discover something that sets your soul on fire and pays the rent - why not?

It's just important to think less like a 9-5 machine, and more like a human... How do you want to spend your working life?

Will you look back and be happy with how you spent your time?

Your personal journey is what is important. Whether that's being your own boss and creating the energy you want, or finding a career that works for you.

Remember a thriving career, means a life that thrives as well. Don't wait to be hit by a car on the streets of Canberra (and always look both ways when you're running to your Uber).

Lifesaver