The Best Job I Ever Had

I’ve had several different jobs over the course of my life. But there is one job that I currently hold and will always consider my best job. Many factors make this job challenging including:

1. Ambiguous Goals…This job offered little to no training and it really didn’t come with a list of best practices that were applicable to my bosses’ expectations. There was much trial and error and the learning really occurred on the job.
2. Terrible Hours…I work nights, weekends, and every holiday. There really is no such thing as a vacation.
3. Low Pay…No one does this particular job for the money. And no one could afford to pay the person who does this job what they are worth.
4. Unreasonable bosses…At times, the bosses’ demands can change on a moment’s notice and there is rarely a rational explanation for the request. You have to learn how to be patient and humorous at the same time.

So I guess by now you are wondering why I could possibly consider this my best job and why I am still there. The job is being a Mom. It’s probably the most diverse role I’ve ever held and it combines so many skills…project and time management, counseling, psychotherapy, food services, transportation, education, fundraising, advocacy, and even wound care. There is something to be proud of every day and I certainly feel like I am able to impact the final “product.” I know I am meeting my “goals” and “quotas” in subtle ways…a kiss here, a thank you there. It is the most rewarding  job I have ever had and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I started this job 17 years ago today. Happy 17th birthday to my daughter Maia. I can’t wait to see what will happen in the next 17 years on the job.