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Never Stuck Again
I first found out about CareerMakers from my mother, Jana, when she went through the program many years ago. My sister, Marni, also went through the Lifetime Program just before graduating from college, about a dozen years ago. Both recommended I meet with CareerMakers because of the difference it made in each of their lives.
There were many factors that led to my decision to enroll in the Lifetime program. I was at a juncture in my life where I needed to return to work, and after staying home with my boys for ten years, I did not want to "just get a job in sales" again. I knew I could get that sales job, but I wanted to feel fulfilled and excited by my work, rather than just putting in my time.
Peter had shared with me many stories of people who had found fantastic new careers and opportunities in the work world. Those stories inspired me to believe that I could do the same.
I graduated from the Lifetime Program in August 2002. Before getting started, our group of ten shared the same questions that I had, and wanted to find fulfillment in their career, not just a "job".
As we got going, I was quite impressed with the instructional methods used by the CareerMakers trainers. It was obvious the members of my class experienced breakthroughs in how they saw themselves, both personally and in the work arena. I am certain that, as a result of the Program exercises, people were able to seek, and secure, work situations that were more satisfying than they had imagined. We all came to know ourselves more deeply, and also became focused on not only what we wanted from our careers, but from our lives. Lives are truly shaped by the CareerMakers Program, and for the better!
Some of my classmates were more comfortable with the interview process after practicing. Others decided to set off on a different career path after informational interviewing and realizing it wasn't right. All of us picked up incredible sources for networking. We became more sure of our priorities in life.
CareerMakers has made a difference in my life, personally, by showing me that my faith that I could get a job I love is warranted! I was afraid I would not be able to find a career that fits my criteria, and that I would end up taking another job I was not passionate about, just to have a job. Fortunately, I was wrong. It was quite an epiphany when I found my present position, and realized that my dream could come true, thanks to the tools I got from the CareerMakers course. I know that sounds corny, but it is true for me. I work in a field that for me is interesting and stimulating. I have made many new friends as a result, it matches my hobbies and interests, and my responsibilities as salesperson (it includes scouting, hiring and training new guides, oversee catering, finding a new bookkeeper, nourishing relationships with restaurants, wineries, transportation companies, and I talk us up everywhere) accommodates my need for a flexible schedule.
I have enjoyed the contact I have had with other CareerMakers graduates. It feels good to help others with ideas and contacts, and to support them on their journeys. It is reassuring to know that other graduates were willing to help me, and would do so in the future. When I discover fellow graduates by happenstance, it's like we are members of a special club - there is definitely a camaraderie.
The course validated my belief that life is what we make of it! We can have what we want if we have the skills, tools and knowledge to go after it! I know that I will always be able to work at what I love. I will never be stuck in a job again.
CareerMakers - thank you for making my dream come true!
Wendy Enloe
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