I've been in that position a couple of times. The last job I had in NYC was as a temp secretary. (Look for my new novel I Was a Male Temp Secretary in book stores soon.) Then when I got my working papers here, I took a job as a personal assistant. (I kept a separate blog for that one that started the moment I walked in the door to right when I left. It would make a fairly interesting book if it wasn't such a depressing story.)
I've had two networking meetings this week. It's amazingly helpful to talk about possibilities with unconcerned third parties. I came away with lots of new ideas both times. I've got this new freelancing status, so my opportunities have just opened up.
Years ago, when I went to the many many get-a-job workshops and seminars that I attended after leaving my art therapy job, I heard people talk about making the work you want to do. That didn't make any sense. I felt pressure to pay the rent, which sort of stifled any creativity I had regarding thinking outside the box - or whatever cliché you want to use. Now I have a job that gives me a regular, if not giant, paycheck, and I have another job that is bringing in a little bacon, though less lately. The rent situation is also a little (read: completely) different. I feel more possibilities than I ever have in terms of getting additional work, so my mind is ready.
When I asked his opinion on getting work in "this economy," one of the people I talked to said, "Oh, there's always money to be found." I like hearing that. Of course he later suggested that I quit both jobs and work solely on finding this other work. "You know, make it real sink or swim situation!" Yeah...take what you want and leave the rest. I left that one.
I think I could scoop poop if I had to. I could even work as a PA for a crazy Polish guy, an snippy British guy and a blond American woman (I'm just pulling those out of the air) if I had to. But I think it's time for something that I'll enjoy doing, something more along the lines of what I'm doing now.
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hello... hapi blogging... have a nice day! just visiting here....
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