Recently I was speaking with someone who felt dismayed that she wasn’t able to focus on any one career path, interest or purpose. She referred to herself as a “Doomed Dabbler”, destined to wander aimlessly in the wilderness with no hope of finding refuge. As we spoke, within moments, a lightbulb went off in her head and she reframed it to say that she was an “Ecclectic Enthusiast” who could pick and choose from a veritable buffet of options,  a “Serene Sampler” who could indulge her fantasies and wild imaginings. This was quite a stretch for her and a new adventure on which she could embark. Clearly, although she does not do it professionally, she is a wonderful writer with a powerful creative Muse whispering in her ear. I asked if I could borrow her terms and she agreed.

I have been challenged throughout my life with having so many interests and ideas that they crowd around me for undivided attention. It’s kind of like being a kid magnet when you are on the phone or the potty. They are not particularly patient and each of them believe that THEY are the most important. I can see them pouting if they feel neglected. What’s a creative soul to do?  All I can say is that I am doing what I can with what I’ve got. I worked with a coach a few years ago, who reminded me to “drill deep, not wide.” and from friends who are branding experts, that I have needed to zero in on my audience, since it is impossible to be all things to all people. I like having at the ready, my own portable tool kit of ideas, just like I carry nearly everything I could use for workshops in the back of my Jeep (except the chocolate, since it would melt) My resume is 2 pages long and growing. Throughout my working life I have been employed as a babysitter, lifeguard/swim team coach, ice cream scooper, massage practitioner, biofeedback tech, nursing home social worker, private practice therapist, artist’s model, practice patient at a medical school, greeting card text writer, minister, waitress, author, reiki master, speaker,  and addictions counselor. Needless to say, I am never bored. I consider my work diverse enough to keep me intrigued by it.

What beckons you into doing work that you love and having interests that entice you to pursue them?