How hard can it be?

Probably not an unusual story;  school careers choices made on the basis of what would antagonise my parents most, last minute application to Uni to do a course no one had ever heard of (and probably partly because of that), college options slightly (?) influenced by the presence of a great looking guy from the Social Sciences department, graduated with an Arts degree in the middle of a recession (not this one) and no job.

It was like pouring a bucket of ice-cold water over my own head.  I found a graduate trainee scheme that would take me on and give me the vocational skills and credibility I needed.  I worked my way through the tiers of professional exams (my more cynical friends say you can virtually buy them now...) and then up the Corporate ladder to a respectable leadership role.

In theory all was going swimmingly, though below the surface I struggled with trying to be a great partner, a great mother and daughter, and a great professional.  I allowed myself to be judged by everyone else's yardstick (well, meter rule), and hey, wondered why I always fell short.

A second dose of ice cold water was called for.  I left not just my job, but the old inadequate me, behind.  In a stumbling sort of way, with the help of all sorts of kind souls I met along the way, I took the time to work out what was really important to me and why.  I created my own sense of measurement (which by the way includes space for experimentation with no external judgement permittted).

I applaud Position Ignition, its very existence may help people recognise that they are legitimately architects of their own lives.  It will be a great catalyst, but be in no doubt, it's your story.  I dare you to be you!

Author: Joanna Pollard