I had a wonderful job interview today where they asked me a question I’d never thought of for an interview before: “If you could talk with any one person, living or dead, who would it be and why.” Well this interview was going so well that I didn’t think it was odd, but later I realized just how significant a question like this could be.
My answer, as may be obvious, was Abraham Lincoln, though as I told my interviewers, Aristotle was a close second. But the significance of the answer seems relevant from the perspective of this: how do the people in your world that you respect, living or dead, influence what kind of person you are and want to be?
I have spent so many years just trying to make sure I could come up with rent money for me and my girls, that I’ve lost sight of the “idealistic me”. The part of me that wants to be part of something bigger, brighter, important for others around me and maybe the world!
So, it is armed with this new insight, and a reinvigoration of my idealistic side that I will forge ahead and not settle for the first thing that comes along, but will wait until that PERFECT job, that fully engages and challenges me to be a better me and make a better world, comes along! I’m hoping it might be the one I applied for today, but if not, there WILL be one. THAT was worth the 2 hour interview alone!
Photo credit:
Alexander Gardner
Silver Gelatin Print
Color, James Nance
February 5, 1865
Washington D.C.
M-97, O-116
LC-USZ61-1938
Copyright 2002 Nance
Unrestricted copyright usage from: www.abrahamlincolnartgallery.com/
August 31, 2007 at 1:55 am
I’ll be honest and say that finding a perfect job that fulfills my idealistic side didn’t used to be a priority – but now? Now it’s a deal breaker. I’m glad I waited for what I have now.
I know you’ll find the perfect thing for you.
September 1, 2007 at 5:12 am
how do the people in your world that you respect, living or dead, influence what kind of person you are and want to be? Thats a big question. Give me something to think about this weekend – thanks!
I’m rooting for you on the job front.
September 4, 2007 at 5:23 am
I’D hire you for sure.
October 9, 2007 at 3:35 pm
Thanks everyone!! This particular job didn’t work out, BUT, it has given me the kick-in-pants I needed to go to the next level. I’ve applied to sit for an exam that will take me to the next level so I’m THRILLED! THANKS everyone, for your encouragement!
October 9, 2007 at 3:52 pm
Bravo. Your positive outlook is wonderful, especially when dealing w/ issues of livelihood is so very stressful. Best of luck on the exam, Roxanne.
When I was unemployed for roughly 6 months, I posted an affirmation on the bathroom window that described my ideal job in the present tense. It really helped me sharpen my intuition. I’m happy to hear your listening to yours.