The continuation of my public introspection as I read “48 Days to the Work You Love” by Dan Miller (my answers to the questions at the end of each chapter): 

1.  Are you a goal setter? Do you typically set goals at the first of the year? If not, why not?
I always thought I was, but I’m really not. I don’t set true goals, I set vague ideas of things I would like to work towards. True goals are ones you can quantify and are accompanied by a plan of action, and that is something I am just now learning.

2. How would you describe your current focus on work?
It is extremely task-focused. I have a hard time envisioning the end result or the big picture, so I focus on checking off the items on my to-do list.

3. What hobbies do you have? What other skills and interests do you have?
Reading, crocheting, blogging (obviously). I like to bake. I like playing with spreadsheets and solving logic puzzles.

4. How are you involved in your community?
I run the FPU class at my church. I’m still technically on the finance committee there but haven’t attended a meeting in ages. I volunteer at a children’s grief camp every year and LOVE it. I started the volunteer training at Ele’s Place but then I got pregnant and couldn’t complete it due to severe morning sickness.

5. What was your father’s or mother’s attitude toward work and how has that affected you?
My mom works. A lot. I have called her a workaholic many times. When I was a kid her work life and personal life were completely separate, and I never got the impression that she hated her job, but that she was simply there because she had to and that was okay. Now, I don’t know. I think the work she is doing now is in an area she enjoys, but I don’t think she enjoys having to do so much of it. I think she wishes she had more time to play. Am I right, Mom? Correct me if I’m wrong. 

My dad is a pastor. He has been a pastor for 3 decades. His work life and personal life are nearly impossible to separate. I’m not sure how he came to the decision to be a pastor all those years ago but I would be interested to hear about it. I know he feels called to be a pastor but I wonder if he ever feels a pull to go in a new direction. Dad, any chance you could chime in on this? (Yes, my parents read my blog. Scary, isn’t it?)

I think the affect all that had on me was that on Career Day I really didn’t give any thought to my passions or my calling. For some reason I didn’t find them relevant or realistic. I didn’t really believe that you could make a living at your calling unless you became a pastor or a missionary or something. I’m starting to wonder if it’s possible.  

Previous Chapters:
My “48 Days” Journey - Chapter 1
My “48 Days” Journey - Chapter 2
My “48 Days” Journey - Chapter 3