“Follow your passion.”
How many times have you heard that during your life? If you’ve been surrounded by the same type of people as I have, your response is probably similar. I’m being a bit rhetorical, of course, as my answer is “countless.”
Effective this past Friday, I was laid off from my full-time job. It’s not the first time I’ve been in this situation, though, so I feel better prepared for the days ahead and know I’ll be just fine.
This definitely isn’t your daily Frequently Flying post, but I thought my readers deserve to know how my personal situation will impact this blog. If you’ve read the “About” section of my website, you already know that my passion has been aviation, airlines and travel since a very early age.
I left employment in the industry a good 12 years ago now for a variety of reasons, including being “young, stupid and wet behind the ears” seeking more money and more prestige. The positions I accepted outside the airline and travel industry were indeed on that path, but I later realized they weren’t my calling. This latest position wasn’t my calling, either, which is why I think it’s for the best.
What I do know now is that I need to devote my career to what I love. It might not come easily given some companies in the industry I love are so encumbered by huge losses and restructuring, others by equally challenging distribution lawsuits and backlash from agencies, and the simple fact that finding an ideal position in this economy no matter the industry is tough these days.
So, in the coming weeks I’ll be evaluating all of my options, including expanding this blog as working on it part-time since I started it has brought me a huge amount of joy and reinforced just where I should be devoting my full attention. Stay tuned as I start my next chapter, hopefully landing exactly where I know I’ve belonged my entire life.
First Class wishes,
Darren
I doubt this is much fun for you right now, and I’m not much of a believer in fate. But sometimes situations that are unpleasant leads one to a new and interesting endeavor they might have otherwise missed. Sort of a cliche, I know, but I trust that will be the case for you.
Knock ’em dead!
Best of luck with whatever new endeavor you choose.
Good luck! Yes, indeed, follow your heart
All the best to you.
Best of luck. At least you know where your interests lie. Most people never even figure that part out.
Been there as well, best of luck. Often times when one door shuts like that another opens up that is 10x better than you could have ever imagined…hang in there!
I’ve only been reading your blog since last fall. In such as short time, I’ve nothing but the greatest admiration and respect for your erudition and passion. My very best to you for the future!
Thank you very much for your feedback and encouragement, everyone. I greatly appreciate it!
Best of luck to you, and stay positive!
good luck D!
Good luck to you! I was laid off 3 years ago this May and it was the best thing to happen to me. I’m now a full time actress and voiceover and loving every minute of it. Follow your passion, it’ll never be wrong.
good luck Darren!
are we going to be seeing more CC referrals on your blog now?
@Kris @mike @Pam @worldtraveller2: Thanks!
@Anonymous: I’ve never had pure CC referral links that benefit me directly on my blog to this point, actually, so I don’t know if I will follow that path and offer “more.”
Good luck Darren!
Best wishes and I hope any new gigs are more satisfying for your several passions. It IS important. My best advice for a happy, passion-following life is to inherit well and retire asa early as possible.
Good luck Darren! May I ask what city are you in? Are you able to relocate? Whats your min salary requirements? Everyone has a calling.
Best of Luck!
@aadvantagegeek @Old Fart: Thank you!
@Bryan: I’m Los Angeles based, but definitely open to relocation for the right fit. I’m traveling this weekend, but will email you next week directly with more info. Please feel free to shoot me an email, as well, at darren@frequentlyflying.com
Best wishes! Glad you know your passions in life, and I hope you can find a position that fulfills them. Thanks for the great blog!
Best wishes, Darren!
Best of luck for the new opportunities to come!
Wishing you the very best most rewarding employment situation. Lots of positive energy directed your way.
Best of Luck. Based on your blog I’m confident you will find a postion that you enjoy even more than the previous (with more first class travel). Your loyal subscriber.
@Mike: Thank you very much. I remain very optimistic.