Over the past month, three women shared with me a career decision that left me feeling quite emotional…
In each of their workspaces hangs their childhood picture. What motivated this delightful choice? Each time they glance up to view their younger selves in all their girlhood charm — with rosy cheeks, big smiles, and shining eyes — they are reminded of a part of themselves that deserves the utmost care. Grace during moments of failure. Patience in times of frustration. Generous encouragement. And then — my favorite part — they strive to treat their current selves with that same nurturing love.
Social strategist Peyton Dix (above) placed a baby picture of herself above her desk. “I’m often harsh and critical toward myself,” she revealed to Elle. “I have to remind myself, ‘Oh, there’s a little girl who is always learning and exploring and doing her best, and, like, be nice to her.’”
When I inquired how Peyton came up with this idea, her answer surprised me: “I encountered a meme on Twitter that featured various funny images and said, ‘When you’re unkind to me, this is who you’re being unkind to.’ At first, I laughed, but then I took it to heart, noted the quote on a sticky note, and put it beneath my own photo.”
Illustrator Jordan Sondler shares that showcasing a photo of her preteen self in her apartment (above) keeps her career goals at the forefront of her mind. “My biggest aspiration is to create art and work to support scared and depressed children like I once was,” she told me.
Finally, Gabriella Llewellyn, a writer and mother of three, states that the collage of childhood images she puts up serves as a reminder of why she sets aside time for hobbies: they bring her happiness. “The reason I sew, read, and garden isn’t because I’m aiming to be the best sewer or read 45 books in a year. I engage in these activities to keep my inner child vibrant and joyful. I do these things to make her proud.”
After conversing with the three women, I chose to adopt this practice myself, so I set this picture as my phone’s screensaver:
Little me with my grandfather and brother.
In the initial days, whenever I looked at my phone — and I hate to confess this — the overwhelming sensation that struck me was embarrassment. What kind of person puts their own picture as their screensaver? I would ponder. This should be a picture of my children, not myself.
However, as time went on, when I would peek at my phone and see tiny Jannelle, adorned in that red beret and pleated skirt (love it), I found myself smiling. Just the other day, I even caught myself imagining how I must have felt in that moment: cherished and secure. She deserves to feel cherished and secure, I mused. And then it occurred, so effortlessly. My next thought was, I still deserve to feel cherished and secure. A sentiment that should feel obvious. But one, I realized, that I occasionally need assistance in remembering. That’s why I’ve resolved to keep my childhood photo prominently displayed.
Do you showcase any of your childhood pictures? Leslie Knope does, too! And what aspects of yourself do you take pride in?
P.S. A trick for anxiety, and what are your three core values?
**A Touching Career Shift: My Personal Experience | Cup of Jo**
Life is replete with transformations, but few resonate emotionally like a career shift. Whether it entails a transition to a new sector, venturing into entrepreneurship, or choosing to leave a long-held role, the journey can be exhilarating yet intimidating. For me, the choice to undertake a significant career alteration was among the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life. Here’s my personal account of this emotional journey, and the lessons learned along the way.
### The Initial Signs of Discontent
For numerous years, I found myself immersed in a corporate setting that, on the surface, appeared ideal. I enjoyed a secure job, a consistent salary, and a clear path for advancement. Yet internally, something felt off. I began to fantasize about alternative paths, questioning whether there was more to existence than the 9-to-5 routine. This sense of restlessness was like a whisper that eventually surged into a roar, compelling me to confront it.
I started feeling detached from my work. The enthusiasm I once held for my position was diminishing, and I began to wonder whether I was truly content. It became evident that I had been merely going through the motions, fulfilling expectations without necessarily pursuing my own desires. This realization was tough because, outwardly, everything appeared fine. But internally, I recognized that change was essential.
### The Anxiety of the Unfamiliar
Upon accepting that a career change was imperative, a wave of fear washed over me. What if I made a poor choice? What if I stumbled? What if I regretted relinquishing the stability of my current position? These thoughts echoed in my mind, enveloping me in uncertainty. The fear of what lay ahead was suffocating, leaving me in a state of indecision for months.
I sought guidance from friends, family, and mentors, hoping for clarity. While their support proved invaluable, I quickly grasped that nobody could make this choice on my behalf. Trusting my instincts and taking the plunge was essential, even if it meant venturing into unknown waters.
### Embracing the Change
After countless months of introspection, I ultimately decided to leave my corporate job and chase a career that aligned more closely with my passions. It wasn’t a straightforward decision, nor was the process linear. Doubt, second-guessing, and moments of panic filled my journey. However, deep within, I felt it was the right path to take.
I opted to explore a career in writing and content creation, an area I had always held dear but had never considered as a viable professional option. The transition was anything but seamless. I had to rebuild from the ground up, creating a portfolio, networking, and learning the nuances of an entirely different field. There were days I questioned if I had made a colossal mistake, but there were also beautiful moments of realization that I was finally engaging in work that felt significant to me.
### The Emotional Impact
What I hadn’t anticipated was the emotional impact this transition would entail. Departing from a familiar routine and stepping into the unknown proved to be remarkably difficult. I had to confront feelings of insecurity, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt. At times, I felt adrift, uncertain if I was moving in the right direction.
Yet, through all this, I learned to practice self-compassion. It became clear that experiencing fear and uncertainty was perfectly normal. Transformations are tough, and a range of emotions is to be expected during such a major life shift. I also recognized the importance of patience. Progress doesn’t happen instantly, and it’s acceptable to take things step by step.
### Redefining My Identity
One of the most unexpected aspects of my career transition was the shift in identity that accompanied it. For a significant time, I had identified myself primarily through my corporate job title. It had been a substantial part of my identity, and letting that go felt like severing a portion of myself. I had to reevaluate what success meant to me and welcome my new identity as a writer.
This journey of self-discovery proved to be both painful and freeing. I had to release the expectations I had imposed on myself and make space for growth. I came to realize that my worth wasn’t contingent upon a job title or salary, but rather on the satisfaction I derived from my work and the positive impact I could create.
### The Benefits of Transformation
Despite the emotional hurdles, the benefits of my career transition have been substantial. I have discovered a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm for my work. I wake up excited about the projects I undertake, and I feel a profound sense of fulfillment knowing I’m engaged in something that aligns profoundly with my values.
The journey has not been without its challenges, but it has been undeniably rewarding. I’ve come to understand that it is never too late to instigate change.
