My Passion, My Vocation: Living Beyond Just a Job

Embracing a Year of Unstoppable Passion

The new year is off to a flying start for me, with the first week of the new year busy with preparing for conferences, onboarding new clients, and preparing for big announcements. In between, I heard from others who would ask, "How was your time off during the holidays?" My response was always the same. "It was non-stop for me." That is usually the case for me during the weird week between Christmas and New Year's Day.

But the important part is that I don't consider it a job or work. It is what I love to do. I'm a creative and a lifelong learner. And what I do feeds into it. Every task, discussion, and project feels less like a chore and more like a piece of a fascinating puzzle, I'm assembling. My work isn't just a career; it's my calling.?

Echoing George Halas, the legendary Chicago Bears football coach who said, "Nothing is work unless you'd rather be doing something else." This sentiment and Mark Twain's "No, Sir, not a day's work in all my life. What I have done, I have done, because it has been play," is at the core of my approach to work.

Turning Passion into a Profession

From an early age, I knew I had a knack for creativity and communication, delving into art, English, and similar subjects. As an adult, I was drawn to marketing, where creativity meets strategy; this field was more than a career choice; it reflected who I am. My work encompasses various dynamic aspects, from designing and managing events, including full-scale conferences and engaging live streams, crafting impactful email campaigns, devising innovative social media strategies, and developing written content. Each element plays a significant role in my creative expression, allowing me to connect with audiences meaningfully.?

Additionally, aligning sales and marketing efforts and streamlining their operations are crucial to my role. It involves creating cohesive messages that resonate with our target audience and ensuring the smooth functioning of backend processes. It's a multifaceted challenge that constantly stimulates my creativity and strategic thinking. Seeing an idea come to life, impacting others, and creating memorable experiences is exhilarating.

One of the most exciting aspects of my job is the constant learning. Whether it's new marketing trends, emerging technologies, or understanding different consumer behaviors, every day is an opportunity to grow. This endless learning curve doesn't just enrich my professional skills; it nourishes my soul.

Work-Life Harmony: More Than a Balance

There's no clear boundary between my 'work life and 'personal life.' My marketing consultant and strategist work is an integral part of my identity. It's a seamless blend of my personal interests and professional endeavors.

This integration of work and passion profoundly impacts my personal life—whether in the nonprofits I volunteer for or chatting with my sons and their friends about businesses they are starting or their work. It brings a sense of fulfillment and joy that transcends the office walls. My work doesn't drain me; it energizes and inspires me in all facets of life.

Redefining Retirement: A Never-Ending Passion

The traditional concept of retirement seems alien to me. Often, my husband jokingly asks if I would give up my work if we hit big in the lottery. My answer is always a resounding "no." Winning the lottery would mean more opportunities to enjoy life while continuing the work I love with my amazing clients and the incredible community I'm a part of. For me, retiring from my passion is like retiring from life itself. It's an ongoing journey that I never want to end.

My career in marketing is not just a job but also a lifelong commitment. It's a journey I embarked on to earn a living and fulfill my deepest passions. The day I stop learning, creating, and growing in this field is when I stop living my truth. And we know how I feel about living your truth.?

Living a Life Fueled by Passion

Reflecting on my journey so far, I realize how fortunate I am to have found my calling in marketing. It's not just a job for me; it's a passion that drives every aspect of my life. For 2024, I aspire for my community to find its passion and purpose.?

Please share your journey with me to inspire and be inspired as we collectively pursue our callings. For those still searching, find what ignites your soul, follow it with all your heart, and watch as it transforms your work into a vocation. Let's not just work. Let's live a life fueled by passion and purpose!

My story is a testament to the power of aligning your career with your passions. It's a reminder that when you do what you love, work becomes more than just a job; it becomes a vital part of who you are. This is my journey of passion and vocation, and it's just begun, even though I've been a business professional for over 30 years.