I love my work but it wasn’t always that way.
My first two jobs were in publishing: I started with a small publishing house and then moved to a large firm. Ultimately, I realized that I just didn’t like working in an office. For me, a 9 to 5 job was a bummer. (Ironically, the idea that I’d someday be an author would have been as likely a reality, then, as my believing I’d become an astronaut.) But what I truly believed and envisioned was that I could use my creativity and energy to run my own business. I went back to school and began to focus on becoming a successful “entrepreneur.”
Today, because I direct a training program, I get to meet a lot of people who are also pursuing their dream careers. The decorators who study with me are not only creative; they are also bright, hard working and seem to respect the power of positive thinking. This last trait may be the most important one because no matter how talented or smart they are, without it, it would probably be difficult for them to succeed.
For example, when asked about it, recently, most of my trainees observe signs that the economy is already improving and believe it will continue to strengthen this year. They also see themselves growing their new home-based businesses by offering great service to people who are looking for value. 
They are aware that they will have to wear many hats and work long hours but they say they welcome the challenge and look forward to being their own boss. As Marisa Tomei’s character in the film, My Cousin Vinny, testified: They’ve got “Positraction!”
Have you changed careers in order to follow your dream or are you planning to take the leap? Do you believe in the power of positive thinking? If so, here is some additional inspiration: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6MhAwQ64c0
All of the precious things in your home reflect who you are. You can use what you have to create the home you’ve always dreamed of.”
– Lauri Ward, Use What You Have Decorating
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I’d like to hear more about how you moved from publishing to decorating.
frugalscholar,
My mother’s parents owned a furniture manufacturing company and my uncle designed many of the firm’s pieces so I grew up watching chairs and chests being carved at the factory and observing my uncle, as he sketched. Like many designers, I also remember myself continually rearranging the furniture in my parents’ home when I was a child.
I never intended to go into publishing: it just happened to be the first job I got. And when I was promoted and then offered another job with a big publisher, I felt compelled to take it. All the while I was studying acting – that was my passion.
Publishing wasn’t right for me so I decided to apply to design school in order to be able to support myself as an interior consultant, while pursuing acting. To make a long story short, I met my husband in acting class and, when asked to choose between marrying him and becoming an actress, I chose him… and decorating. Next week, we will celebrate our 30th anniversary.
Thanks for the reply. Truly a circuitous route!