There’s a chance I could change careers. Again.
I mean, don’t get me wrong. I totally love being a freelance writer. I love words, I love the writing process, and I especially love that I get to wear my pajamas to work. And by “to work,” I mean, “to my desk in the guest room.”
Yes. Right now I am wearing pajamas. And it is 2pm. Don’t judge me. It’s part of my creative process.
Ahem.
I haven’t always been a writer. In fact, growing up, I wanted to teach school. I wanted to be a third grade teacher and give spelling tests and teach long division.
[I know. I had weird expectations of what teaching school would be like.]
I attended the University of Georgia where I studied Early Childhood Education and learned pretty quickly that teaching involved a bit more than spelling tests and long division.
Apparently kids need to know some other things, like the history of the United States, how to count money, the water cycle, and the appropriate time to use a comma. Which I’m still not sure, I actually know, how to do.
I taught for five years. I absolutely loved [almost] every minute of it.
And then I quit.
I just felt God leading me a different way. To be honest, I also felt myself begin to dream in a new way. I never stopped loving my teaching job, and those children will always have a very special place in my heart. But doors started opening. And opportunities arose to step towards that dream of writing.
I prayed. I asked some really wise people for counsel. I prayed a whole lot more.
And I decided that I wanted to be brave enough to change careers. It was a scary choice, that’s for sure. But I had to try.
What if I failed? I’d pull out my spelling tests and head right back into the classroom. Embarrassing, maybe. Failure usually is.
But what if I never tried? That option scared me more than failure.
So here I am, 29 years old, and two years into my second career. Do I think that this is the career I will have the rest of my life? I have no idea. I’m open to whatever path the Lord leads me down. Life is way fun [also insert: scary, surprising, unpredictable] when you let God run things.
Including your career choices.
Some people do stay in one career their whole life. And God is honored in that. Others try many different jobs and honor God in each of them.
Today I choose to honor God in this career [and in these pajamas], doing this right here -– writing about a God that dreams bigger for me than I can dream for myself.
Resources…
The Bible — Colossians 3:23-24
Something else…
Take a look at this HILARIOUS Super Bowl commercial that pokes fun at bad work environments. The will also help you evaluate your dream job!
Special Giveaway…
Shannon, a member of our team, has an AMAZING book called Life.Now. She has graciously agreed to give away 3 copies to our She Seeks readers this week. Here’s what you do …
- Leave a comment here
- Subscribe to our feed and leave a comment {if you’re already subscribed? leave a comment!}
- Share this post on Facebook with your friends and leave a comment here saying you’ve shared
- Tweet a link to this post and leave a comment here saying you’ve tweeted
Be sure to leave a separate comment for each and you’ll be entered 4 times! Winners will be announced next Monday, February 1st in the next devo!
Annie Downs is a freelance writer (for now) living in Nashville, Tennessee (for now). Read more at annieblogs.com.
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I understand you completely.I have a cleaning business and sometimes I think I cannot do this anymore (age51) but I keep doing it. The people I clean for are so good to me and have helped me through so many trials. Its good money and I make my own hours. Some have had to let me go due to financial situations and it is breaking my heart. But I believe right now God wants me to continue doing this. I am praying about another part time job I love taking care of the elderly. I learn so much from them and it is not stressful.Well, that is all I wanted to share. God bless you always. Thank you for the devotion.
Shannon its amazing what God can do for us. He moves place to place and does His work through us. I think you are right when you let God guide you and put you wherever He wants you to be. That is why you enjoy your job because you accept with open heart what God wants you to do.
)
Oh by the way I will like to enter the about the book Life.Now.
God Bless and have a wonderful day
I hope and pray that I’m in the career that God wants me to be in. Hopefully I am, because my husband is disabled and we have 4 kids to support. If I’m not, I’m sure that God would open doors allowing me to change.
i am praying for God’s guidance if i am supposed to be missionary or or not.
awesome article, Annie! I love reading your writing because it is always infused with a beautiful perspective of God’s ever-constant work in our lives. You seem to really understand living under HIS grace and I love the willingness you have to live for Him and change directions for Him when He calls. I desire that so much…I think I am getting there slowly
Thank you for this article – it was a breath of fresh air this morning!
I really appreciate this article. Thanks so much for sharing! I have actually been praying recently for God to lead me in the direction he wants me to go because I’m possibly considering a new job. Also, in this process, I have decided to fast Facebook… too much of a distraction and I really want to focus on what it is God wants to tell me. Therefore, I won’t be posting this on Facebook but I will Tweet it.
awesome
It’s funny the timing of this blog entry, as I am sitting here, freshly graduated from college a few weeks ago, and am now applying to jobs that could each lead me down a completely different path depending on which one I choose! Talk about pressure! I feel like I’ve been starting at the computer for weeks and have hardly applied to anything yet out of fear and suddenly realizing that the corporate environment that my Business degree prepared me for no longer appeals to me, and that I’d rather be writing childrens books, or working at a coffee shop, or opening my own small bookstore in a small town.
Annie’s blog entry was a perfect thing for me to read today as it reminded me to pray for guidance and the description of Shannon’s book, Life.Now, was a huge wake up call when it talked about how “now is the time to get from where you are to where you want to go”
I think about changing careers often. I’m not sure what I was made to do!!!!
I can completely relate to this article, but not because I necessarily “chose” this new path. I am one who will stick to it, stay with it, until God literally launches me in a new direction. So, after being laid off 6 months ago, I am still searching for the new direction. Ugh, it gets frustrating at times. But I KNOW God has a plan (have to remind myself sometimes) and I trust he will reveal it eventually! Thanks again for the inspiring words (I especially liked the parts about failure).
I love this site!
I’m also subscribed via google reader.
Oh boy. I needed this today. I’ve been struggling with my chosen career (civil engineer) for a while now. Its very scary to consider changing careers and losing a very steady, substantial paycheck. I feel that God wants me to work until my husband graduates in May, but he has been softening my heart to other things lately. Only He knows what good things are planned. What a motivation to refocus my prayers a little.
I am so grateful to be able to learn so much from so many people and not even personally knowing any of you. I am in a position that is not in my career path but is somewhat related to it. I am learning alot about this field and also about the one I am going to school for (Nursing). The Lord changed my career path really quick almost a year ago. I was a tech on the floor working 3rd shift but it was hard. Having two boys, working, school and about to get married was very stressful. So we had people come in and they cut hours and cut positions. I kept saying God is in control and I am not going to worry. My position was cut but I got another position in the same place but 1st shift. It was good hours for my boys but I took a big pay cut. Guess what? The Lord has provided where there was a pay cut and I got blessed with a super boss.
I learned when God is in control you need not worry. He is not going to do anything that will harm, disappoint, or that is right for you.
We want to make our paths but they are not the ones he plans for us sometimes.
Thanks and hope you all have a blessed day!!!
Melissa
I subscribed to the feed and I also tweeted and facebooked this link so I could share it with many of my friends who also are job searching right now
I loved this devo. It is so fitting for me right now. I’m in the process of trusting God and changing careers. Scary, but oh so exciting!
I really appreciate this post. I always thought I would be a professor/academic scientist, but am now a stay-at-home mom to four children. I am now thinking about the type of career that I want to pursue and the things that need to be done in the next 3 1/2 years so that I am ready as my youngest goes off to school. God has equipped me with training (Ph.D. Biochemistry), family history, and life experience for an awesome opportunity. Now I have to remember to trust His timing and direction. I would really appreciate the book.
Wow! Thank you for posting this. I needed to read this today. My husband and I have been talking about me getting a job and I have been regretting it. I have loved being a stay at home mom; but, know that we need a new way of living.
God has set my path in front of my and He knows His ways are better than mine…I just need to get that in my system and hold on tight to it.
Have an AWESOME and BLESSED day!!!
Melinda
Wonderful and with perfect timing! I am a writer, too, but it’s not quite the topic and content that I would LIKE to be writing. It’s great to hear your story and know that we can absolutely step out in faith, letting God lead us.
Best to You!
Casey
I just subscribed via email.
I posted your great giveaway to my Facebook friends. http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=1202793207
I tweeted your giveaway, too!
http://twitter.com/caseyhiggins
I often wonder if the career path have chosen is the right one. I have a small cleaning business and also cook at a local Cafe. I sometimes feel unfulfilled by what I do. I will have to pray to see if God will steer me in a new direction. I will be sharing this with all ofmy friends on Facebook.
I subscribed to this with Yahoo feed!
I posted this to my wall on Facebook and also became a fan. Thank you and God Bless!
Hello Ladies-
Isn’t God good? Annie, your words of wisdom really touched my heart this morning. Oh how I needed to hear inspiration from a woman who stepped out in faith. Career choices have been weighing heavy on my heart. I am a Senior in college and am feeling torn. I am studying Elementary Education and love teaching and kids. But about a month ago my heart began to change. It has been a confusing process because nothing happened to make me like teaching less, in fact I still love it. But I don’t know that I feel called to do it. The other confusing thing is I am constantly affirmed by my professors, family and cooperating teachers in my growth and potential as a teacher. It is hard to ignore these talents. But I do not want to go into a profession for the affirmation from a temporary world.
Thanks Annie, and Jesus for the wisdom that was shared.
God seems to be laying on my heart to write, speak and share my story and things he reveals to my heart on His behalf. What that looks like I have no idea. In fact I do not know how you go about writing a book, or freelance writing. I did not study writing in college. I also am not sure how I would do in front of a crowd of women share pieces of my heart. Would they listen? Would it matter or touch their lives? How does one even become a speaker?
Yet I feel drawn to this, but am scared at the same time. Annie’s comment really resonated with me when she said, “But what if I never tried? That option scared me more than failure.” What if I ignore God’s calling and miss out on His plan that is so wonderfully created for me because I settle with something I know I will succeed at? I do not want to play it safe and never get out of the boat to walk to Jesus’ outstretched hand. The hard part of this whole situation is I do not know how this would be play out. There is not even opportunity at the moment because of school. I have NO support from friends and family because of my “potential” as a teacher and the reality that teaching is a “secure” job. But I do not want to ignore the quiet whispers from my King. Sigh…. Choices…
So how perfect was this devotion for my current quiet battle in the depths of my heart? I’d say right about spot on.
Posted this on my Facebook Newsfeed
Hopefully this inspires another woman 
P.S. I have already subscribed to this and love the encouragement that comes from this weekly!!!!
Girls,
I am loving your comments!!! I am praying for each of you as I read what God is revealing to you. Keep the comments coming- the 3 girls who win the copy of Shannon’s book Life.Now. are SUPER lucky! It’s one of my favs of her’s.
Heart y’all mucho,
Annie
Changing my career has been on my mind and heart for several months. I have either taught or worked with teachers for 33 years and have loved every minute of it. However, this year has been different for me. I am struggling with whether it is God’s whispers or just my selfishness that brings my thoughts to whether I need to move into something new and different. It will be interesting to see what happens. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I’m on my third career. Or fourth. Either way, it’s definitely not my last one. So I like hearing about other people who aren’t afraid to make changes!
I loved this. It is exactly what I needed to read today. I am praying for God to guide me into a job that he knows I am made to do and he has prepared me to do. I love teaching but I know God has more for me.
Hope it reaches others from my Facebook page.
Have a blessed day!!
1. Annie- that is a super cute pic of you
2. the best part of teaching is the spelling tests.
3. I admire your ability to listen when God calls you. I want to be more like you when I grow up.
Posted this to my twitter
https://twitter.com/MandyKuruc
i’m 35 and ready to switch from education to something…maybe photography. i don’t know. it’s hard! would love that book!
Annie,
Such a great post, have definately been there. Can’t wait to see what God has in store for you next.
great post from one teacher-who-wants-to-turn-writer to the one who already did. that long division is just too tough!
Yes, this devotional is very timing! Being a senior in college presents a looming dark cloud of “decisions”. Praise God that He provided a part-time job interview for me tomorrow, but the actual thought of starting a career is frightening. I was just talking with a missionary friend of mine tonight who is considering leaving her career as a missionary because her ministry has dried up. It seems like many career changes are taking place in the here and now. The passage from Colossians was a great reminder of what our work ethic should be, no matter where that work is taking place. I, too, am fasting from facebook for one of my classes, so I am not able to leave a comment there. Nor do I have a twitter account. But, I will share this website with friends via email! Thanks for the encouragement and the gentle reminder during this time of indecision! God bless!
I also just subscribed to your feed via the Firefox Bookmark Toolbar. (I have never subscribed to a page before, so I hope that I did it correctly)
I’ve changed careers a few times in my life. Secretarial work, Certified Dental Assistant, full time wife and mom, homeschool teacher. I’m wondering what God has in store for me next. Whatever it is I know it’s going to be great.
Wow, I love when God reminds me that “there’s nothing new under the sun”. I am only 23 and have already had 2 career changes, working on three. I began as a hairstylist and recently just quit to take on the wonderful world of nannying, while I am in school for Christian counseling. Did you get all that? Yea, not sure I did either. But thank you so much for sharing and just know that our God loves to keep us on our toes maybe just to see if we will really follow Him anywhere. Praying that God blesses your new career and that it simply leaves you wanting more of Him!
As a freelance writer, I consider putting it down about every other year. I think, “I could work at a real job and make real money”. I think, “It’s 2 p.m. and I’m still in my jammies (it’s a work hazard!). I think, “God, are you sure?” And then I realize that I have the most amazing job in the world as a communicator and I fall in love with it all over again. Love, love this post.
Suzie Eller, Proverbs 31 Ministries
http://www.facebook.com/#/ekchilders?ref=name Posted on my Facebook and twitter http://twitter.com/emkat09 !
Thanks for your words. This is really timely for me. And I would LOVE, love, love to read the book.
I just subscribed.
I seriously can’t tell you how many “careers” I’ve been through. When I started working from home, well, I lost count. I think I changed my mind every month. Ok, maybe not that much
I struggle with what I want to be when I grow up, but I try to remember to start every day asking God to show me without a doubt (because I’m slow) where He wants me to be.
Thanks for this devo Annie! Huge blessing this week
Thanks for this! I am struggling with my job right now!!
I too, have had several careers. I’m a Nurse, Mom, Artist, Writer. I’ve also been a Realtor, Preschool Teacher, Perfume Model, and Fast Food Server, and the list goes on. I think for me, the most important career I have is being a Child of God. Following what God’s plan is for my life has always proven to be the best career I could ever ask for.
Life definately is funner and scarier when you let God lead it.
My husband calls me the queen of the part time job. My career choice was as a nurse. Loved it…most of the time. I worked later as a nurse consultant. Loved it…most of the time. We moved and I had young children and no help so we decided I should stay home. Loved it, all the time. BUT, I had this nagging feeling that I need to contribute financially. I really think it stemmed from the fact that I liked making some of my own money and for a while, I made quite a bit more than my husband.
), and I am now keeping an adorable 7 month old at home. My two oldest are in college and soon to be; but I have one starting kindergarten next year. My favorite job in the whole world…mom and wife.
So, for years now, I have held various part time jobs that I could do while my kids were in school. I taught preschoolers computers (or did they end up teaching me?), I cook for people, you used to be able to come by my house on Tuesday and pick up dinner for $5.00/plate. I also cooked for parties and other special occasions. I was a a substitute school teacher (loved that!), I was the bookkeeper for my neighbor’s business (which he recently sold for 7 figures, I would like to think I had a hand in that