Way back in 2015, I had just launched myself into a new career in Quality Management and dropped into an entry level position to do so. What I didn’t know was that the oil price was going to crash and redundancy was inevitable, we were just going through the motions [no matter what the HR process said – last in first out rules apply]. At the time, the injustice and timing was the worst!

I mentioned in my about me section that I’ve never really had a plan. What I did have was a clear definition of what I did not want, and even clearer expectations for people to recognise my worth based on my work ethic, results and loyalty. My reaction to being notified by email, was visceral to say the least. I know that should I ever line manage or have employees of my own, I never want to treat them that way, irrespective of business decisions that need to be made.

There were many lessons during the consultation; and today I am so grateful for those gifts. Firstly, I was so blessed to have colleagues that I now call friends, support me, encourage me and who had faith in me and my ability to recover.

Secondly, I became the most resourceful I have ever been in my entire adult life. I pulled off my first ever solo art exhibition in 6 weeks, and raised all the capitol I needed for a partially funded scholarship, that allowed me to become a professional sailor [more on that later].

Lastly, [albeit with hindsight] I found that I was thankful for my dream in that moment ending. The people, the circumstance, the result – all of it was to serve me, when harnessed effectively.

For the record sailing professionally did not work out either! I lasted one whole season, because I had not learnt from my re-actions! A waypoint for another time. Needless to say the career after that went much the same way – until a good friend reached out and said – ” I think you would love this and I think you need this”. This was a self development event called Unleash the Power Within (or UPW for short).

So fast forwarding to June 2012 I attended the 4 day event – grudgingly I might add, and life truly has never been the same since. I have invested in myself continually ever since that weekend, and it has taken sacrifice and commitment to do the work. Although the work continues, and will forever be ongoing, I feel ready to challenge myself [and give friends and family a rest] by starting this blog. I have a new waypoint, so here I am, setting sail , today!

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