Gratitude is key to happiness. So say studies and scientists. And me. It may seem counterintuitive, but I am grateful for 2020. I’m grateful because this year gave me space and time to reflect, study, and listen. You could say I was forced to pause after getting bounced as an applicant for 50 plus jobs. In several cases, I made it to the final round before hearing, “Unfortunately…”. In the end, rejections were a stealth bonus – a nudge from the universe to change course.
Whenever I needed a break from the job search that occupied too much mental real estate, I would walk and listen to podcasts on the science of happiness and positive psychology. I took courses on psychometric tools, positive psychology, and executive coaching. I also talked with friends, colleagues, and advisors. I earned certificates during my mission.
I was operating on parallel paths. One, the pursuit of a traditional job. The other, pursuit of my happiness and purpose. I thought I needed the former to achieve the latter.
Then, a few weeks ago, the two paths collided after I completed an intense interview process- three informal conversations, psychometric and cognitive tests, two case studies, and two panel interviews. It was an exciting job opportunity, a new and different role for me. It involved strategizing and working with businesses to enter new markets. The position would leverage many strengths while allowing me to help people succeed.
I got the call on a Wednesday afternoon after a week and a half of waiting. I was convinced I was their lead candidate. I didn’t get it. I was “bigger than this role.” I was crushed. I allowed myself to wallow the rest of the day. The next morning, I switched course to Plan B.
What I realize now is Plan B is really Plan Meant to Be.
I was excited about the job opportunity I missed because it leveraged my top strengths (VIA Character Strengths): Fairness, Honesty, Social intelligence, Leadership, Kindness, and Bravery. I know that I am:
✔ Resilient ✔ Extroverted ✔ Engaging ✔ Empathetic
✔ Innovative and action-oriented ✔ A change agent
✔ Comfortable with visibility (which is why I can cruise around with a guide dog in training by my side!)
I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve seized, including working on the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, founding, running and selling a successful small business, living in New Zealand for six years while serving as CEO of a nonprofit, and serving as COO of several contractors supporting our Government’s work in Washington, D.C.
Like many, I’ve been knocked down. A lot. I get up again – and again, and again. I’m resilient. If I had a dollar for every time I’ve been told “you are the strongest person I know,” – you know the rest. Resiliency is my superpower and I want to help others find their power.
For 20 years, I’ve dreamed of joining forces with a few of my closest (and most talented friends). The timing is right. We’re ready. I am thrilled to announce the launch of Mana Advisory Group: Coaches and Consultants to help you find your power.
So, thank you 2020. You helped me find my path, my power, my Mana.
Ma·na (noun) | 1: a generalized, supernatural force or power, which may be concentrated in objects or persons 2: Prestige
Do you know your Mana? Let us help you find it – amy@manaadvisorygroup.com