Earlier during the summer after a long hiring process, I kept thinking “you have to finish your current chapter before starting a new one.” Although I had high hopes, there was no certainty of anything in my future. I wanted to hold on to what I had until I knew what was next.

I consistently reflect on the advice of highly successful individuals who always advise others to take risks, which is not easy for many, including myself. The “what ifs” run laps in my mind and sometimes keep me from seeing the bigger picture.

A voice in my head kept telling me to let go. So I thought let’s try and see what happens.  I resigned from my job at Kohl’s and then received an email I had been anticipating.

This week I spent “Real World Wednesday” climbing up and down three flights of stairs moving all of my belongings from the place I’ve called home for the last two years. Yesterday I passed the torch as the supervisor of the Intimates and Accessories Departments at Kohl’s and ended a five-year career in retail.

Toward the end of my high school years, I asked my dad if I could get a part-time job. His response: “You have your whole life to work. Enjoy not working while you can.”

At the time, I had no bills, no responsibilities, just wants. Fast forward five years later: I’m in the same position, but I have more knowledge, experience, and skills. During my time in Hattiesburg, I learned and grew mentally, spiritually and professionally. I got to know myself better. I learned what I want from my career and life - and why.

In high school when asking my dad if I could get a job I wanted to work so I could buy clothes, shoes, accessories and handbags. Today, I apply for positions with a strong desire to make an impact in the lives of others and maintain a long, successful career. The advice my father gave me five years ago is still true today.

The email I received didn’t contain the information or offer I hoped for. However because I have my whole life to work, I’ve decided to ignore the advice of people who say “get a job and move on with your life.” Instead, I’ll keep seeking opportunities to enter a position that I enjoy.

Fortunately for me, there is no rush to find work to repay student loans. Although I have a good bit of what I call “Daddy Debt” my father still welcomed me back home. I have moved seven times within the last five years. My goal is to move one within the next five. I have accepted my reality and am not willing enter a place where I see many of my classmates and friends: dreading Monday-Friday, counting the seconds to 5 p.m. and using the bathroom and social media breaks as an escape from work. I’m moving on... just on my own terms.

Sometimes you do what you have to do until you can do what you want to do and everything does not always go as planned.

“Welcome to the real world!”

XX, 

Jasmine C. Tate