Lawncare
After taking 18 months off and traveling around the world with my wife in 2017-2018 (epic! ask me about it). I was poking around, meeting with companies in SF, trying to figure out what to do next.
In one chat, a Founder asked me, "So, what were you optimizing for during your travels?"
BS answer: "A greater appreciation of the cultures of the world and a new perspective that will help me in the next stage of my career."
Real answer: "Because I knew I would enjoy every single second of it. And I did."
These questions kept coming up from people early on in their careers. They seemed to struggle to understand what I hoped to gain from taking 2 years off. What was the outcome I was shooting for? What was the point?
I see this mistake often when people are making career decisions. We should choose to do something because of passion and excitement for the thing itself.
Not because we think it will lead to something else. Not because we are hoping for some future outcome.
Life is too short not to put yourself in a position where you can enjoy each day.
At the same time, I believe all things worth doing— are hard. This is why you have to enjoy:
The work.
The people.
The purpose.
If you are thinking about moving on to a new gig in 2022. Don't go chasing unicorns and sacrificing the day-to-day in hopes of a big payout. Focus on finding work, people, and purpose that will get you out of bed each Monday morning.
And remember- if the grass looks greener on the other side, you better start taking better care of your lawn.
✌️