This post was first published on the blog for Southwestern College.
Life evolves.
My 3rd Act is here at Southwestern College – first in Admissions and now as Director of Student Services. My 1st act was also in higher education – as a Residence Hall Director, Director of Student Support Services, and then as a Doctoral student. I advised, taught, managed, and supervised people, programs, and budgets. It was a very left-brained experience.
My 2nd Act was a journey into my right brain; kicked off by a head injury from a car accident. I explored metaphysics, yoga, Ayurveda, energy healing, and all things woo-woo. About halfway through my 2nd Act, I trained as a Life Coach and started Dragonfly Coaching and Consulting, LLC offering intuitive life coaching, energy healing, intuitive readings, and educational programs; thus, integrating the left and right brains.
And then, a decade into my 2nd Act, something curious happened.
I started yearning to work in the community (rather than on my own) and earn a steady income (rather than the financial roller coaster of solopreneurship). I found myself wanting to contribute not only to the personal and spiritual growth of individuals but also to the growth of an organization that shared my values.
The Universe obliged. I was offered, and accepted, work at a Unity church and reconnected with my administrative and supervisory capacities. I also rediscovered my love of working within organizations. After a year, I knew it was time to move on but I didn’t know where to.
The Universe obliged again, offering me this opportunity to re-engage in higher education in a way I never thought possible. Integrating my administrative, managerial and coaching skills with a commitment to “Transforming Consciousness through Education” is the fulfillment of a dream I didn’t know I had. But there it is; a true expression of who I am at this point in my life.
I’m surprised at my life today, but this 4th Act is satisfying because it’s a natural evolution of my life’s work, passions, and yearnings. I’ve been prepared and guided each step of the way – whether or not I knew it at the time!
So I wonder…
- What Act are you in? What has brought you to this place, time, and decision-point?
- As you consider re-engaging with higher education, what passions and yearnings drive you?
- How have the previous Acts prepared you for your next Act?
- How is this Act an evolution of your life? What would be a true expression of who you are at this point in your life?
Flourishing in Your Dharma at Midlife