I ran across Regina Brett’s (new to her, but she has many advice books) God is Always Hiring: 50 Lessons for Finding Fulfilling Work back in April. At the time, I was hunting the bookstore for Toni Morrison’s front-of-store latest, God Help the Child. I was also trying to distract myself from the troubling thoughts of my wrecked car parked in my driveway. As well as distract myself from a 9-5 that just wouldn’t let up. And it’s the 9-5 job situation I speak of which drew me to God is Always Hiring. No, seriously, I considered it a sign from God when the book's bright yellow color captured my attention. I circled the new release tower and–POW–there it was. One to wage my coins on impulse buys; in that instance I grabbed the book (along with Morrison) and headed to the checkout without question. As far as I was concerned, God really was trying to tell me something. This time I would listen.
Funny how things work.
But to be extensively honest, I thought God is Always Hiring came with job-related stories I could identify with. Particularly from the first-hand experiences of individuals who’ve found themselves frustrated by their jobs as well. And what they did about it. Think: Chicken Soup for the Soul, motivating struggle, adaptable tools, and eventual triumphs. Even so, while the book contained tidbits of story essays from various individuals and their 9-5 challenges, it was mainly 50 lessons from the author's experiences. Valid lessons, no doubt. Only I have no idea what it’s like to have a resume as broad and bright as hers. Or one crammed with growth opportunities in a field closer to my own desires themselves. I would even stretch to say I would trade my current job for some of her previous experience. Personally, working as a columnist is far more rewarding and field engaging than a gas station attendant. Trust me. I know this.
Still, I suppose the feelings of finding yourself unfilled are relative yet all the same. (I would probably only go so far as a columnist before my entrepreneurial spirit starts grumbling back up.) Which is why I want to share a few of my favorite lines/lessons/advice provided in the book. These are the moments that truly resonated within my personal situation. The lessons I did identity with and heard God "calling." In turn, if you haven’t read the book, I hope they resonate with you as well so you can go buy God is Always Hiring. And get hit with the inspiration to make those changes in your life that you know you must seek out.
Well… LET’S GET STARTED….