If it makes you happy, it’s what you’re supposed to do.
~ Emmanuel (Pat Rodegast)
I’m a firm believer in this statement. I spent the majority of my career clawing and climbing up the success ladder. At first I was very happy in my chosen profession (advertising media planner/buyer and later, advertising sales) but after awhile I became discontent and eventually I became miserable. Getting up every day to go where I don’t want to go is not the way to spend my life, I decided.
Well, in its glorious way, life unfolded. Into my mind popped an idea. After I had dog-sit for free a few times, I thought that it might be worthwhile to start charging for my service. And so was born my dogsitting business. I make less money now than I used to in radio and TV ad sales and it’s definitely less glamorous. No more fancy parties or extravagant trips. But guess what? I’m happy.
I’m actually extremely happy. I’m surrounded by unconditional love 24/7 and the dogs keep me laughing. Over the years I’ve discovered that this is what I was meant to do. There’s a certain peace in my life now and I truly believe that working with dogs is my calling. In the past few years I’ve studied to become an Animal Chaplain and will be officially ordained next year. I’ve officiated pet memorial services and helped people in their grief when they’ve lost their precious animal companions. I’ve said prayers over dogs as they’ve been euthanized. And I’ve comforted the owners during that awful time. I’ve spent time with dogs who have been abused and tried to comfort them and let them know that not all humans are horrible beings.
This is what I’m supposed to be doing. This is what I believe I’ve been put on this earth for. It’s not much, but at least I think it’s enough. It’s enough for me anyway…
So remember this quote: “If it makes you happy, it’s what you’re supposed to do.”
Are you happy doing what you do? Do you believe that statement? Or do you believe that suffering with a job that makes you unhappy is just the way it is?
