2011 has been a year of self-discovery.
Back in the spring, I took an art course at the university where I work. As the semester progressed, I began to notice that I was really looking forward to class and really dreading the trudge back to my desk.
Things reached a head in October, when I finally put to words what I'd been feeling over the preceding months - my passion is not in programming, but the creative arts. The majority of my job was emotionally draining and required very little original creativity. Day after day, I languished in my cubicle, daydreaming about making things at which people enjoyed looking - work that inspired and endured.
So, after much prayer and discussion with my wife, I submitted my resignation. Come January 31, 2012, I will be 'sans employment.' The plan is be hired well before that. There are some hurdles, however - A modest portfolio and living in a rural area without a lot of tech-related jobs being the two biggest.
It's been eleven days - correction, it's been a long eleven days - since I gave my resignation. I've submitted several applications and even had an interview over the phone (I don't think they liked the idea of hiring someone who wanted to work from home over moving).
There are good days and bad days - times of optimism and despair. What I was unprepared for, though, was the effect all this stress and drama would have on me physically. I'm totally drained at the end of the day. It's as if I won't be able to rest - truly rest - until I know things are going to be okay. Which I kinda already believe - but I don't know how or when, and that's the distinction.
There's not really a point to this. I mainly felt like the blog needed dusting off and the recent lack of activity explained. I cannot tell you how eager I am to be in a creatively stimulating environment and getting the 'juices of inspiration' flowing again. And when that day comes - and it is coming - I will have such wonderful things to share.
Until then, send a good thought my way. If you're the praying type, I'd appreciate it if you'd offer one up for a stranger trying to follow his heart for once, instead of his thick head.
Hey, I don't know if you remember me, but we did some D&D when Wave existed. I don't do any hiring, but I can poke around at my job to see if there is anything that you are interested in. I just followed you on Twitter (Geran_Smith), DM me and I can take a look for you.
ReplyDeleteHey Geran, it's good to hear from you!
ReplyDeleteI was actually thinking about the GW group the other day - I've started running a new local group and I was contemplating sending them off on the same quest, just to see if they'd pick a different option.
I'm actually waiting to hear back from an application I sent on Friday. It's about an hour from where I live, but drive-able. Beyond that, I'd be looking to work from home, but that's a risky proposition for a lot of businesses. If you think your company would go for it, by all means, send me the info. I'll understand if they say 'No way,' though - they wouldn't be the first.
Regardless, I truly appreciate your willingness to ask. D&D solidarity, FTW!