Lesson #21: 10 Cents = Change
If I had a nickel for every time I heard "It can all turn on a dime" I would be a rich woman. But the strange thing is that it's true. For better or unfortunately sometimes for worse, big, large, important things happen to us when we least expect it or when we just can't wait any longer.
When I think back to 5 years ago, I was hurtling forward in a wildly successful career that I wanted nothing to do with. I was at the most prestigious neurological institute in the country, working with top minds on prize-winning issues. I was supposed to be the "next big thing" but all I could think about was " how do I get through one more day?"
There was no good answer except get out. U-turn. No matter how far you've gone down the wrong road, turn back. But then what?
I literally jumped off a cliff without a parachute and landed in the oddest of start-ups during the up phase. I call it my mini-MBA/trial by fire/Hell on earth, but things moved fast and all of a sudden I was no longer a physician, but a budding business woman. I was in a promising relationship. Things would All Work Out and I had just turned 35. Perfect! Off the market in the nick of time!
But time, unfortunately, doesn't move in a linear fashion.
Cut to 4 years later, another relationship in rubble, and I was beyond repair. Inconsolable. On the brink of 40 and 400+ dates later, nada (hyperbole, it's not just a great Scrabble word...).
4 months ago I was living in NYC, obsessed with the city, in a dysfunctional, abusive relationship with the Island, and yet could never see myself leaving. Ever. They would have to pry it out of my cold, dead hand.
I was in an equally dysfunctional relationship with someone who may or may not exist (don't ask) and went on a dating frenzy. I don't thing I've ever been more miserable in my life, except during those excruciating transitional years coming out of medicine, or during my parents divorce.
Today, I was offered my dream job, a promotion, and the best part? It's in Atlanta! I know, I know, don't freak out. I love it there. The pace is slower, the tea sweeter, the Southern charm really does ooze out of everyone, and yet it never seems disingenuous.
My boyfriend is about to arrive from LGA and friends and family are descending from far and wide to celebrate my birthday tomorrow.
Who saw that one coming? Not me. But I'll give you a dollar if you can call the next act.