January. Reflect and Renew

Ah, January. The time for reflection and renewal. For new years resolutions, pinching the purse strings and trying to empty the house of all the leftover temptation of Christmas.

Whilst many dislike January, I have always found it refreshing. A chance to plan ahead for the year. A quieter month, the bookshelves stocked with Christmas gifts and usually a craft project (or 2) on the go.

This year has been a bit different however. After a 7 month wait, I have finally had the much needed operation to repair the ligaments in my left knee. Whilst necessary for the longrun, it has been torture over the last few weeks. January has passed in a haze of medication and frustration.

Hobbling around the house on crutches, unable to take advantage of the freezing, bright, clear days, I have felt isolated and fed up.

In theory, sitting in bed all day, surrounded by cats, knitting or reading whilst my partner diligently fetches tea, is wonderful. But the discomfort, pain and frustration of not being able to do things myself only increases.

The garden needs tending, compost turning, weeds clearing. Gah, if only the leg was working!

Yet, January does as promised. Delivers time for reflection. Time to focus on what is important. Looking after my health, working hard to heal my body so that I can be fit and healthy by June. The six month mark should be when my knee is strong again. By nine months, I might be able to jog!!

And I have time to focus on what else I need. Turning 30 last year has made me desperate to settle into a career. Not just a job, but a career. Work to get out of bed for.

Just like employers list of requirements for the right candidate, I have drawn up my own set of requirements for an employer.

• A job that allows for growth and learning

• A great company culture and close knit team

• Good management, with clear communication and structure

• People focused position. Looking after, engaging with and helping to provide a fantastic work place experience for colleagues.

• Locality. No more horrible commutes.

• Flexible working, hybrid and remote options. Work life balance is so important.

I have had 4 jobs in the last year. 4!! It's been an exhausting rollercoaster ride of frustration, hope and learning. Underpaid, bad company culture, wrong industry, bad management, no progression. I've had it all.

But the thing is, it has taught me what I do value. A job isn't just about the highest salary, it's also everything else. How does it make you feel? Do you want to go to work in the morning? Are you valued? Are you challenged?

So what does 2023 hold for me?

• Healing and health. I need to get my knee strong, so I can get back to my fitness level before the accident and get my body and self confidence back.

• Employment. I've got to fo us on finding the right career path for myself.

And with those 2 things, I hope that all my other little projects; the house and the garden and a holiday will fall into place.

Here's to renewal!