My Winding Backroad

A metaphor for my life for sure. A winding road that the destination is ever changing. That's what's fun about life, you never know exactly how you'll end up. You may, like me, choose to make a career change. You may make that change in your 30's, after you already went to college and have been working a career for seven years. It's ok. It's actually wonderful that you understand that you need a change. Take that unexpected route. You're not going backwards in life, you're actually growing stronger.

Below I will leave you a few examples of how I take the Backroad as much as possible.

To Grandma's House We Go

Ever since I was a young child I loved taking the long way.
I enjoyed daydreaming while my dad drove me through the sidestreets to Grandma's house. There were multiple routes my dad could take to her house, but one was my favorite. On this particular route, there was an old bridge. When approached just right, the bridge would act like a jump and give you a little air. I was always excited when I saw my dad taking that route. My dad understood that it's not always about getting there faster, it's about the experiences you have.

Who Doesn't Change Their Mind in College?

So honestly, who doesn't switch majors in college? I did. In fact, I changed my major at least eight times and really learned a lot from it. I learned I loved anthropology but understood that I wasn't going to be the next Indiana Jones. I learned that even though I'm passionate about environmental issues, it doesn't mean I can force myself to like biology. Same goes for accounting. I loved the organization and computing part of the career but overall seemed rather dry. I ended up going into healthcare and enjoyed being a respiratory therapist. As of lately, my feelings have changed and I am looking into a new career in software engineering.I'm so glad my road took a little turn, and it makes me happy.

The Move to Wyoming

After a few years working at a large hospital in Milwaukee, I realized it was time for a change. Healthcare worker burnout is very high and I was definitely feeling it. So I applied to a job in Wyoming and after a few interviews I got the job. If you would have asked me five years ago if I'd be living anywhere besides my home state of Wisconsin, I would have said not a chance. Over the past few years, I have developed many unique friendships that feel so strong. I have explored many places I never thought I would visit. I took a chance on the move to Wyoming and it definitely was the right choice.