A New Chapter

Tomorrow I start a new chapter in my life. Have you ever thought of your life in chapters? There is a chapter about your infancy, which someone else would have to narrate. Then there are chapters about childhood, youth, young adult, college, first job and on and on. Some chapters are very short and then a few of the chapters may be very long. The last chapter of my life, I felt was a bit too long.

Tomorrow morning at 8:00 am, I start a new job. I will still be a physical therapist but I will be doing something totally different and challenging. I

As I start this new chapter, I have the usual doubts; am I sure I want to do this. and I will miss the other clinic. But actually, I feel better about this move than any other I have made. I think it is because I finally know who I am and I like me.

In my earlier chapters, my self confidence was lacking and I worried that I would not be able to live up to expectations. Now at my ripe age of 51, I realize that I am not perfect, I will make mistakes, but that's okay, because nobody is perfect and we all make mistakes. However, the main concept that has come with my experience, is that I take those mistakes, admit them and learn from them.

I work in a field with young coworkers. Physical Therapy is a booming field and young people think it is exciting, which it is. My point in talking about my young coworkers is that they know more than me .... about some things. They can show me new techniques and they can still spout off every muscle origin and insertion and nerve innervation from memory. Well this experienced individual has learned that you can look these details up if you need to know them, but that the most important thing to the patient is function and action. Okay, I have gotten a bit technical , but what I am trying to say is that at 51 years of age I am in the learning process and some of my teachers are 20 years younger.

At this time, I think that a piece of advice to everyone would be appropriate. Here it is: Never be too full of yourself that you don't ask for help when you need it. Nobody, knows everything. It may be humbling to ask for help, but the benefit you will receive is worth the first uncomfortable moment. You will learn something and you will make the other person respect you more and feel good about themself.

When people ask why I made the switch in jobs, I tell them it is my midlife crisis and I couldn't afford a red convertible sports car. We all get restless at times in our life. We just need to either ride that time out or do something. I have been restless and becoming bored in my job for about 2 years. I tried to ride it, but the feeling was still there. I am making a move. Is it the right move? Will I be happy or unhappy? Will I wish I had stayed at the old clinic?

Who knows the answer to these questions. I am taking a risk and jumping right in. Wish me luck. When the day comes for you to take a risk and do something that is uncomfortable but feels right I wish you the best.

Recognize a Challenge, Stand up to that Challenge, Conquer the Challenge....
and if you need help... ask!!! And May God be always at your side as you go.