The Chrysalis Stage

The Chrysalis Stage

It has been a while since I posted anything on here. Since my last post, I have made my blog private and removed all social media. Only when I realized a career change was imminent did I restart LinkedIn, which has been my link to the outside world. So, what has been happening, you ask?

I struggled mightily to find purpose in my work. I have worked full-time since the first week of my senior year in High School. Doing the “responsible thing”, just like I was taught. It didn't matter what I was paid, how I was treated, or how I felt; I put my head down and pushed through.

I continued the pattern of taking on a big challenge, problems that needed to be fixed. That kept my mind occupied until all the fires were put out, all obvious dangers were removed, and things were operating smoothly and quietly. Now what? The business metrics alone were not enough for me. I needed something more.

Five years ago, I began building a Community Support network that supported local nonprofit organizations, schools, and, in turn, found resources for our employees. Wishing it was possible to make a living doing what I loved, which looked very different than what I had always done. It was too late…or was it?

When my position was eliminated, I was given the opportunity to find out. At first, instincts took over, and I just needed to find a job, but in the back of my mind, I held out hope to go in a different direction. I began applying for jobs in my field and at nonprofits, knowing I had transferable skills but little confidence to articulate them to others. The roller-coaster ride had begun.

As time went by, it got quiet, and my circle got smaller. With the counseling of a few trusted people, I started to focus primarily on applying and networking with nonprofit organizations that I felt were making a significant difference in the community. There are a lot of good people and organizations out there, and I have been talking to anyone willing to share their knowledge and guidance. That search is not over yet, but I finally feel like I am on the correct path for me. If nothing else, I know what I do not want and am not willing to put up with anymore.

This is where the title The Chrysalis Stage comes in. Change is messy, uncertain, and often uncomfortable—but it is also necessary. In this stage, a part of you fades to make room for something new. I believe I have found where I belong, and now I need to trust the process. I’m continuing to learn, connect, and explore opportunities where I can contribute in a meaningful way.