Transition

I've always felt that the word "networking" was right up there with "root canal" in terms of heinousness, but then I started job searching and had to change my tune. I still remain allergic to the type of networking that involves wearing uncomfortable shoes to organized events and suffering through awkward forced conversation, but I've been making use of a type that's much less painful- emailing and calling every relative I have, asking them what advice or connection they have to offer.

After one particularly motivating and helpful phone call the other day, I was hit with a particularly weighty realization: I'm not afraid of not being able to get a job. I'm afraid of actually getting a job, and of all that comes with it.

I've been a student for my entire life, and have never known anything but a relatively flexible schedule. College in particular has provided a lot of latitude. Getting a job means letting go of a lifestyle that allows me to hike in Shenandoah National Park on any given Tuesday afternoon. And what if I don't like the job I get? What if it's boring, unchallenging, or way more than I can handle? Turning the page and starting this new chapter of life means a lifestyle overhaul, and that's scary. It's what every other adult on earth had to do at some point, but that doesn't necessarily make the transition any easier. Some people say they hate change, but I actually like it. It's the transitions that I struggle with.

There is one transition, however, that is always smooth and welcomed, and that is going home to Massachusetts for a little respite. The drive may be 9 hours long, but what lies at the end is always worth it.