Mountains Once More

A new chapter in my life is about to begin.

After 16 months back in Canada, six short-term, contract jobs, innumerable job applications, a handful of interviews, and a recent windfall of job offers, I have decided to take an admin contract position in BC. I leave this weekend.

The job deviates from the last 5-10 years of pursuing a career in the nonprofit world. To accept it was the single most difficult decision I have had to make to date. It’s in the private sector, in the construction industry. It is, in no way, related to my education and passions. But, it’s okay. I hope. 

I will be making enough money that, if I am smart, I can pay back my loans in under a year and have money left over to put into savings (what a concept, savings!). For that, I am willing to delay my career goals.

My debt has felt like a prison. It is the biggest stress in my life. (And, I am sure a contributor to all the grey hairs I am finding.) My debt is the reason I did not return to Guatemala, why I have lived with my parents since that decision, why $50 seems like a lot of effing money, and quite honestly, why I continue to smoke. This job offers me financial freedom and picturesque mountain living, and all I have to do is trade a year of my life. Seems fair.

I hope that this decision doesn’t haunt me: that potential, future nonprofit employers can understand a decision based on survival, and find value in the skills I am going to pick up in the coming months. It's a risk, for sure. This year could become a giant red X on my resume, and make it even more difficult to break into an already competitive sector. Finger crossed that luck is on my side. 

I am not ready to give up on my dreams, but am ready to enter the ‘real world’ where dreams must be put on hold.

(Thanks again to everyone who offered their opinions when this job was offered. I am beyond grateful that you shared your thoughts, and find myself curious, once again, about how I am so lucky to have you in my life - thank you!)