Page 20 - FWG_Issue 2_March_2022

Lifestyle

LESSONS I LEARNT WHILE There are many times I find myself looking

CHASING MY DREAMS for jobs just to keep up with the bills, and
the Jones's.

And this is often the biggest reason people
B Y MICHELLE L R A YMOND look for work, not for fulfilment and passion,
but a paycheck. And I have fallen into this
gave up well-paying jobs, my And this is not the side of the story one trap many times. So, when I feel like I’m
investments and financial security for usually hears. We only hear about what heading down that road of desperation, I
a healthier lifestyle, a family and an happens once we have passed the finish line ask myself:
I opportunity to pursue my passions. and talk about these things in hindsight. • Is it worth more time away from my kids?
• Is it worth my well-being?
And so far, I am in debt. I have kids to look I am living in the struggle now and learning • Is it worth giving up on all I have worked
after, a bond to pay, and I am working some interesting things along the way. for even though it is not yet rewarding me
harder and longer than I ever have – and financially?
you know what? I love it! Lesson 1: Forget about the Jones's
The bad days feel like I am stuck in quicksand, Lesson 2: Find meaning
Of course, there are times, many times, like and I become so overwhelmed – mostly When I started working, I hated every job I
every day, when I worry that maybe this is from all my own expectations. Things like: had and jumped from one to another. If a
not such a good idea. • I should be saving for retirement. recruitment specialist had to look at my CV
• I should be able to pay for my son’s soccer now, they would be shocked!
Before all this adventure, I had money lessons.
– safety nets, money in savings and • I should have enough in savings to adjust It was not that I hated the work – that part
investments. Now that I do not have that for an increase in interest rates. I enjoyed – but the people and the lack
anymore, I sometimes struggle to sleep • I should bring in more money to take some of meaning caused me to leave. Finding
at night. I lie awake, wondering when and pressure off my husband. meaning at work is everything to me. I can’t
how the bills will get paid. • I should be giving to charity. just do a job. Some people can and I’m

Fourways Gardens • 18 • March 2022