With the permission of my client, I’m going to share an experience I had last week in hopes that it will inspire you to open your heart to the possibility that you can live your desired life today…not when the kids are older or the house is paid off or your husband is promoted or the timing is right. Anything is possible at any time with the right approach and support.
Last week I had a session with a client who is struggling to find joy in her work.
She feels underpaid and undervalued by her boss. But at the same time feels the need to remain committed to the job because of the flexibility it provides her. This flexibility has become the most valuable benefit due to her ill spouse who is in need of support, causing her to leave work early, arrive late or even call out on occasion for two or three days in a row.
She shared that she would like to explore a new position but can’t at this time because of the “flexibility” they offer her. Who would hire a person who needs to take time off regularly to care for an ill spouse?
Open to shifting her view on what’s possible, I asked, “What if you found a position that is in your ideal line of work, offers a salary that values your time and worth, AND is willing to support you in caring for your spouse by offering flexible hours and paid time off? Would you consider leaving? If that was possible, would you apply for any opportunity that came your way?”
Then we took it one step further. What if she was capable of creating her own income, doing work that was in line with her values and worth? How would that feel?
She quickly replied that would take away the only time she spends with her daughter.
Curious, I asked, “Why?” She felt she would need to work weekends until the business was successful before she could leave her day job.
“But what if you created a plan that clearly detailed the services you would offer, how many clients you would need and how your days would be different?”
She was silent for a moment. Then said, “So, I could be one of those people who go for a run during the day?”
I replied, “Yes! That is possible for you!”
We finished our call with action steps for her to gain clarity of her expenses and the amount of income she needs to live the life she desires.
It doesn’t matter if she gets a new job or opens her own business. The most important ah-ha for her is realizing that she can create her new normal. Shifting her belief about what is possible for her not only raised her confidence but also her hope and desire for change. Change that she now believes is truly possible for her.
Where do you feel stuck or trapped in your life? Could you take a moment to explore what is possible for you? Need a little help? Post a comment below and I’ll be sure to reply.
To living your dream,
Melanie Toner