On Self Reflection

Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.

- Confucius

This had always been my belief ever since college. You see, I did not take up the course that I wanted. Backdate a decade, Computer Science/IT was the 'in demand' career. It was far from my interest because deep in my heart of hearts, it was Psychology/Psychiatry that I wanted. Talk about North and South, Black and White, Hot and Cold - they were extremely opposites.

But despite this situation, I still studied the Com-Sci Course. Why? Because I was afraid. I was afraid to be blamed. That what they were saying was true - THAT THERE WAS NO MONEY THERE. And not only that, my tuition fee cost a fortune (READ: DLSU/TRIMESTER). So there were also these fear and guilt that if I took the other road, they would not get their money's worth.

Sure I got by, and sure I got 0.0 (and that means FAIL) in Programming subjects. And after 4 years (plus 1 sem), I was able to graduate. But did you think I pursued the career I was supposed to pursue? NO.

My first job was in NAIA, as a ground stewardess. I had nothing to complain - (I was happy there, I would genuinely smile to passengers.) EXCEPT, the pay was low. It was just enough for my make up, hair accesories, perfume and stockings.

It was at that time that call centers started booming. Gave it a shot, got accepted in the telemarketing industry, reached my sales quotas, got awards, got promoted. Spent a good 4 to 5 years of selling/marketing via phone - and it was great! Stressful yes, but I was happy (because somehow there was a sense of fulfillment and of course I had commissions, LOL!).

After some time I realized whatever I was doing in call centers, I can do it at the comfort of our home. We have the means - computer, Broadband Internet, and a quiet place. That would mean NO TRAFFIC, LESS EXPENSES (Still debatable because of consumption of electricity), and SAFETY (It is dangerous to travel in the wee hours of night!)

Forward to present, I now work as a Virtual Assistant, doing administrative work to US clients.

And this thought has been tinkering my mind - and heart, Am I happy?



{Special note to my family: This does not mean that I regret my college life. I will always be grateful for the support and opportunity given to me to study in one of the best/prestigious universities here in Philippines. And to my husband: No regrets because if I had decided otherwise, I will not meet you, there will be no us, there will be no Sofie (and KT). The three of you are my life, my everything.}