The Importance of Finding Identity Outside of Your Career
Many of us spend the majority of our waking hours working a 9-5 job. While this is necessary to make a living, it is equally important to cultivate an identity outside of our careers. Our 5-9, the time we have after work, is what truly makes us feel alive. In this online diary, I will explore my journey of discovering and nurturing my identity beyond my role as a nurse and my pursuit of an intentional and creative life.
Discovering My Passions
As a nurse, my career is fulfilling and rewarding. However, I realized that I needed to find activities and interests that brought me joy outside of the hospital walls. I began exploring different hobbies and passions during my free time, and it was through this exploration that I discovered my love for writing, photography, and painting. These creative outlets allowed me to express myself in ways that my career as a nurse couldn’t.
Through writing, I found a way to share my thoughts, experiences, and ideas with others. It became a form of therapy, helping me process my emotions and reflect on my journey. Photography allowed me to capture the beauty of the world around me and share it with others. Painting became a way for me to unleash my creativity and create something tangible with my own hands.
Nurturing a Balanced Life
While pursuing my passions outside of work, I also realized the importance of maintaining a balanced life. It is easy to get caught up in the demands of our careers and neglect other aspects of our lives. However, finding a balance between work and personal life is crucial for our overall well-being.
By dedicating time to my 5-9 activities, I not only found fulfillment but also gained a fresh perspective on my career as a nurse. Engaging in activities that bring me joy and allow me to express myself creatively has made me a happier and more fulfilled person overall. It has also helped me to better serve my patients, as I bring a renewed sense of passion and energy to my work.
Pursuing an Intentional Life
Through this online diary, I will also explore the concept of intentional living. Intentional living is about making conscious choices and living in alignment with our values and goals. It is about being present in each moment and finding purpose in everything we do.
By pursuing an intentional life, I have been able to prioritize my 5-9 activities and make time for the things that truly matter to me. It has allowed me to let go of activities and commitments that no longer serve me and focus on what brings me joy and fulfillment.
Intentional living has also helped me to set goals and work towards them with purpose. Whether it is improving my writing skills, showcasing my photography in an exhibition, or creating a series of paintings, I am able to approach these goals with intention and dedication.
Conclusion
While our careers are an important part of our lives, it is equally important to find an identity outside of our jobs. Engaging in activities that bring us joy, nurturing a balanced life, and pursuing an intentional life can help us discover our true passions and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Through this online diary, I hope to inspire others to explore their 5-9 activities and embrace their true selves outside of their careers.