New Leaves

I have always been someone who has welcomed change. I like trying new things and doing things differently. But for the last few years, I’ve tried new locations (work and home), but still find myself doing the same things over and over.

For the average person, doing the same thing brings comfort and security. However, this doesn’t seem to be a good fit for me. Lately, I’ve been asking myself, “is this all there is?” and “is there something more?” Recently realized I needed to make a change.

Last week I left a job as a director of school. It was a difficult decision to make, but I was unhappy. My unhappiness was due to many factors, but overall, I was worn out from being the person in charge. The educational climate has changed in the last 10 years. There has been a significant increase of demands being placed on educational leaders. The work expectations started to take a toll on my mental and physical well-being. Finally, I realized it was time to leave.

When I left the director job someone asked if I would become a director of a school someplace else. My response was no. My most recent job would serve as the last time I would be a director. I enjoyed many years of leadership roles, but I’m not sure that’s something I will do again. It feels like it’s time to try something new or something different. The problem is I’m not sure what to do next.

I have always identified myself by the roles I’ve had. I think this is common for most of us. I identified with roles like mother, director, educator, and wife. With my youngest son graduating from high school this week, my role of mother is changing as well. I need to rethink I how I will identify myself.

I’m not ready to retire. I do look forward to retirement, but not quite yet. My youngest son plans to go to college, so I need to work. My husband won’t be retiring until a few years from now. We plan to retire together and I know we’ll be ready when it happens.

I am on a journey. I’m turning a new leaf in my life. I wanted to create a space for me to share my journey for myself, as well as for others. I hope this blog will be something that will guide and support me toward a new path.