Life Lesson #1
Posted on | January 13, 2010 | 68 Comments
There’s got to be more to life
Hey, guess what! Today is my last day at the job I’ve been working at for 6 years!!! Woo-Hoo!!! Congratulations Lina!!!
Let me tell you, it was a hard decision. I mean, I was earning a 6 figure income. The job was close to home, very secure and gave me enough money to not once worry about the bills… And that’s why I can hear you scream, “Then why the hell did you leave??? Isn’t that the perfect job Lina???” Did I at least have another job to go to? Nope. It was time to go.
Call me a dreamer. I’m happy to admit that’s what I am. I left my job because I have dreams to make reality and magic to create. Going into an office every day, because I was too scared to leave, just got in the way.
I stopped growing in that job a long time ago. For the last couple of years, I felt like I was just showing up and, in return, there’d be a nice sum of money in the bank every fortnight. Yeah sure, it was financially secure. But in return for that security, I risked dying with regret in my heart.
I knew years ago, as a passionate, energetic, ambitious 20 something year old, that there’s got to be more to life. If I had stayed for the next 10, 20, 30 years – which is a path I could have taken – I’d be telling my kids about how mum, was once, a cool young chick who was going places. But then things changed and you kids came along and I have nothing to complain about and that’s all that matters.
There’s got to be more to life than having nothing to complain about, surely.
If the truth be known, I decided in December 2006 to leave my job by 4 February 2007. It didn’t happen. 3 years later, I’ve done it. I listened to the call of my spirit and I’ve left!
So was the last 6 years a waste? Absolutely not! I’ve learnt so many life lessons and solidified friendships. I’m a better person today than I was 6 years ago. Even 6 months ago that’s for sure. Everything that has happened has been just right. Any regrets? I would have laughed more, moped around a lot less, been more confident and spent less time wondering whether I was good enough.
Where to from here Little Ms Dreamer?
Well, I’m going to do more of the things I love. Like travel, write and laugh. I’m going to become a budding entrepreneur, house sit a mansion in Canada and go on TV. I’m going to run marathons, climb mountains and build businesses. Because there’s got to be more to life than my fears. No more letting my fears get in the way of what I want. Besides, I just don’t have the time for that anymore.
Oh, did I tell you, I got offered a job yesterday? Working in an area I’m totally passionate about. Part-time and hopefully working from home a lot. Fits in perfectly with my dreams. A smart person reminded me of a Zen quote yesterday: leap and the net will appear. Funny that.
Lina Nguyen © 2010
Tags: 6 figure income > There's got to be more to life > travel > write > Zen quotes
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January 14th, 2010 @ 12:04 PM
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Wow the day has finally come to say goodbye to your JOB. This has been a day you have talked about for a long time, and now that day is here. Well done. You will move onto better and greater things, as you pursue your dreams. I know you will shoot for the stars and beyond. As someone who will be by your side on your journey, this is going to be the best adventure. I am wishing you all the best.
I guess this can sum it up. “If you spend your life with your nose stuck to the grindstone all you’ll end up with is a sore nose”
Dean
January 14th, 2010 @ 1:21 PM
Lina, well done! I LOVE the zen quote in your blog: “When you leap the net will appear”. Not only will your net appear, but I see you jumping on it and rocketing sky high. What a wonderful day for you. Enjoy the flight!
January 14th, 2010 @ 1:25 PM
Thanks Lucinda. I know you understand. You’ve been a very special part of this, so THANK YOU for everything! Can’t wait to see you in 2010!!!
January 14th, 2010 @ 1:31 PM
Congratulations Lina!!
That is a very inspiring post and I have complete confidence in you achieving your dreams and desires.
“Travel, write and laugh” – 3 things that I like to do quite a lot
Look forward to reading more from you!!
January 14th, 2010 @ 1:33 PM
Yang, you have been instrumental in the birth of this blog. Please visit from time to time and say some funny Yang things. Thanks so much!!!
Lina
January 14th, 2010 @ 1:59 PM
If there is anyone I know that can do anything she puts her mind to, its my mum. Then its you. Congrats to you for doing this. You have the guts, brains and determination to do something like this; not many do. This make you very special and above all an inspiration.
All the best.
Fern Cath and Amelia
January 14th, 2010 @ 2:01 PM
Well done Lina,
Back yourself and you cant go wrong,
all the best,
Denis
January 14th, 2010 @ 2:08 PM
Lina, that is fantastic that you’re following your dreams, good for you. There’s no stopping you now! Then again, I don’t think you could have been stopped before either; you and Dean are just rampaging through life (I mean that in a positive way if there are any doubts).
I don’t just think, I KNOW that we will be hearing much more about your life adventures; Lesh and I will be watching the news for your latest adventures. I can’t imagine the freedom you must be feeling right now. Lesh and I are so proud to know such outgoing and adventurous people, and hope people can follow your fine example.
Keep us up to date!
Luke and Lesh
January 14th, 2010 @ 2:19 PM
Congratulations Lina ! Im so proud of you !
I wish you all the very best.
Take care,
Love Lauren and family
January 14th, 2010 @ 2:26 PM
Hi Lina,
I’m so impressed by your determination to go after what you want and not settle for anything less than your heart desires.
Enjoy this day! It takes great courage to take that first leap of faith.
Congratulations. I’m expecting big things from you and have absolute faith that you will deliver.
Have a wonderful day,
Jazz
January 14th, 2010 @ 2:30 PM
What can I say…. Little Miss Dreamer you have guts !!!
It has been a honour to have worked with you and also be your friend. If there is one thing that I have learnt from you it is to live life to the max and do what you love. I once thought that following your dreams is only for some people but you make everything possible !
I’ll miss you,
Love Sandy
January 14th, 2010 @ 2:53 PM
Wow – well done Lina!
A huge leap of faith….and one you must take.
We have many journeys to make in this life, no longer is it acceptable to stay stuck where your heart don’t sing.
Look forward to hearing about your next venture and the next and the next.
How very exciting.
You go girl!
January 14th, 2010 @ 3:08 PM
Lina, I’m so proud of you!!!
It’s funny that just a few weeks ago I was talking to some colleagues and one of us announced, “there’s gotta be more to life than this”. The difference is we sit and whinge and you actually set off in search of the “more”.
I think it’s fantastic that you are breaking away from the routine job to follow your dreams and your sense of adventure!In saying that you will be missed here at Fairfield CSC. It feels like such a short time ago you were a fresh new face in the office that we were all getting to know, and now we’re farewelling you!!What’s this I hear about Canada?? Please update me…I’m delayed on the news
January 14th, 2010 @ 3:22 PM
Congratulations Lina!
I’ve got no doubt that you’ll enjoy great success.
Good luck and have fun!
Cheers,
Steve
January 14th, 2010 @ 3:55 PM
Well done Lina! You are always such a positive, inspirational person – yet again, you have shown that a great spirit will get you exactly what you want in life. By the way, you are someone that does not need a net; when YOU jump, you will fly!
Good luck Lina, Nat.
January 14th, 2010 @ 4:09 PM
Go Lina !
as someone who is currently well and truly out of his comfort zone (but daily becoming more comfortable in that place) I applaud you for following your dreams. The TV appearance and marathon you can have all to yourself, but I’d love an invitation to visit the Canadian mansion! Best of luck – can’t wait to see the photos !
Mike
January 14th, 2010 @ 4:50 PM
Go Lina
I remember when I was able to leave my job only 7 months ago just like you, and take that leap of faith and I haven’t stopped defying gravity since! Going back was never an option. Doors of opportunity can be seen open wide now because you are focused.
Now you don’t just believe that you can create a magical life, you know you can. Believing leaves a margin for doubt, knowing allows for no exceptions. You are a courageous leader, showing the way to all those who desire to live the life of their dreams!
I will be house sitting in Greece so you will have to come and visit.
Many blessings on your journey
Elly
January 14th, 2010 @ 5:03 PM
Hey Lovely Lina, not much else to say but WELL DONE! I can absolutely relate to you at the moment. I left my role at my previous employer after 6 years with nothing lined up, just in pursuit of a vocation that I would feel connected to. A trip to Vietnam and a few weeks later, a casual job at WVA, then 1 day into training I get a tap on the shoulder to take on a Mat leave contract, then a couple of months later a perm role! I guess it’s just a reminder that we can’t control as much as we fool ourselves into thinking we can. I am totally stoked for you at this stage of your career/life. It must be so exciting to be joining this very worthy organisation. It seems to fit you perfectly! I can’t wait to hear all about your rewarding moments, your challenging moments and about how you are growing day by day in this new environment. Congrats Again!
Betty
January 14th, 2010 @ 5:07 PM
Lina, you’re the best.
Go for it!
xx
January 14th, 2010 @ 5:49 PM
Hi Lina,
Great news, think of the future, your dreams and wishes will come to fruition. Enjoy life while you’re young.
Elaine
January 14th, 2010 @ 7:59 PM
hey lina,
wow sounds like you’ve got a lot to look forward to.. i look forward to reading more about you livin your dream..
January 14th, 2010 @ 8:05 PM
Hey Lina,
I am really happy for you, to shrug off the shackles must seem like a tremendous weight lifted off your shoulders. A sort of liberation that most people can only dream about.
I know with the strength and determination you posses you will make a smashing success of this. If there is anything I can do to assist you please let me know.
“Living the Dream”
January 14th, 2010 @ 8:13 PM
Congratulations Lina
We have meet each other in Panama and was suprised about your job. You look a person that like other things then that. Hope you wll see the world again and do things what is more on your path.
I wish you all the very best and we will see each other soon ….. time fly allways.
January 14th, 2010 @ 9:07 PM
Hi Lina,
Your energy shines through your blog and I look forward to reading more of life’s lessons. You conduct yourself with integrity and humor which are two great qualities.
All the best, Eileen.
January 14th, 2010 @ 10:18 PM
Congratulations!
Thank you again for being an inspiration. I can relate so much to what you wrote, no kidding!!
I’m always thankful for our friendship. I believe in you.
To your success!
Pia
January 14th, 2010 @ 11:18 PM
Beautifully written Lina! I found it very uplifting. I feel very excited for you.
Wishing you every success. I look forward to hearing more.
Hilary
January 15th, 2010 @ 12:40 AM
Congrats Lina!
As a fellow Vung Tau refugee I totally understand the gravity of this situation. I’m so proud of you for leaving this shit behind. Now you just need some plastic surgery and a frivolous holiday and you will totally be following my lead.
Lots of love,
Mike
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
January 15th, 2010 @ 1:27 AM
Dearest Lina,
It is sooo exciting to read all this. Thank you for sharing it, as I can leave the dream as well through you dear friend. It is sad that I could not even say proper good by to you at work. I wish you all the best sincerely from my heart. I’ll follow your adventures and stay in touch this way. May God bless you dear friend. Love Zeljka J.
January 15th, 2010 @ 3:37 AM
I know you will be great and do great! Congrats Prima!!! You are truelly inspirational. I look forward to hearing about these adventures:)
January 15th, 2010 @ 7:16 AM
Hi Lina,
Well, the journey is about to begin. May your travels and experiences be enlightening. My thoughts are with you all the way.
Go get it girl !!!
Life is too short enjoy the journey
Cheers
Pete
January 15th, 2010 @ 9:21 AM
If you can dream it, you can achieve it!
Congratulations on taking the first step of a great journey. I wish you all the best for the future.
Have you seen the World of Difference volunteering opportunity with Vodafone Foundation. http://www.vodafone.com.au/personal/aboutvodafone/worldofdifference/index.htm
I look forward to hearing all about your fantastic advetures.
All the best,
Kerry
January 15th, 2010 @ 9:30 AM
Hi Lina
Congratulations on the next step in your life journey. I’m sure the footprints you leave there will be as deep and true as the ones you have already stepped out on the journey so far, including the ones in the last six years which I and your other colleagues have had the privilege to step along side you.
My wish for you is that you will always be courageous and believe in yourself, that each step is an important one not only for yourself but for those you take with you on the journey. And I hope you will continue to find, and be inspired by, the “wow” factor either in your work or outside it. But also do not forget that even in the mundane there is a chance for you to bring that “wow” factor to someone else in many unexpected ways, which will both wow and humble you and be even more rewarding because it will be the confirmation to you that it was the right journey to make.
After all, life isn’t just about ourselves and who we’ve become, but also the sum of the lives we have influenced along the way, for better of for worse. Some you will wish you could change, but even those steps were important in bringing you to where you are now and therefore important for you to have taken and learned from. And knowing that will make you deeply happy in a way you can never imagine – something to look forward to and at the same time enjoy now too.
Take care and I look forward to hearing about the next chapters of the Lina life journey. And thanks for the chance to take some steps beside you during the last 6 years of that journey.
Derek
January 15th, 2010 @ 10:00 AM
Hi Lina
Absolutely love your site and post.
You have your dreams and are going for it. With your determination I am sure you will achieve whatever you want to.
I know you will have lots of friends watching your progress.
Go girl
Gee
January 15th, 2010 @ 10:25 AM
I know the feeling, Lina. I worked for a salary for 22 years. In all that 22 years the day that was the most joyful was the day I left.
Wal
January 15th, 2010 @ 2:30 PM
Hi Lina
Yippeee!!! Congrats on quitting your job – it’s a fantastic feeling, isn’t it?!?!
Good on you girl, and I love how you have now been offered the part time role also. Must be meant to be, huh?
Love to both you and Dean, you guys rock, enjoy your work free day!!
Love
Karen and Dre
January 15th, 2010 @ 2:48 PM
Hi Lina
Sorry I missed you on your last day!
I wish you all the best for your future travels and congrats on making the move. I know from the short time that I knew you that you will do well with whatever you do!
All the best!!!!
Glenys
January 15th, 2010 @ 3:54 PM
Hi Lina,
You have my admiration for the courage you have shown in facing your fears and following your dreams; my thanks for your encouragement and your generosity in sharing your knowledge when I most needed it and my warmest wishes for a future filled with realised dreams and joys magnified ( and sorrows halved) by being able to share them with Dean.
In the words of Missy Higgins – you are “a special one”.
Soar upwards
Jo
January 15th, 2010 @ 7:43 PM
Great work Lina, Congratulations! Am I a day late to congratulate you on your first blog post? Possibly but it doesn’t matter. I’m here and I enjoyed reading what Lina had to say. I’m also learning from you what I can do soon in the future as my fist blog as well.
Best wishes to you Lina.
Jill.
January 15th, 2010 @ 8:02 PM
I dont know what a 6 figure income is, but what’s money compared to freedom?
So far I’ve never spent more than 10 months at the same workplace. Jobs come and leave. But we’ve got one life to live.
I hope your dreams come true.You made the big first step!
See you in Belgium or anywhere else!
January 15th, 2010 @ 10:47 PM
ATTA GIRL.
I knew I had faith in you for a reason.. well done. I look forward to many more visits to your site. You are an inspiration.
January 16th, 2010 @ 7:25 AM
Dear Lina,
Mate, thanks again for all you great work over the last 6 years, you have made a difference to many people’s lives and you will continue to do so in your new life adventures.
On a personal level, thanks for being such a wonderful friend.
May you always be happy and healthy
Meg
January 16th, 2010 @ 10:14 AM
Lina,
Well done on your latest achievements. Truly inspirational. We’re all right here behind you!
Lots of love,
John
January 16th, 2010 @ 5:36 PM
Hi Lina,
congratulations!! what an exciting, huge step forward in creating your dreams… I also had a smart person tell me the same Zen saying – the day I left my full time job, and it is so true. I’ll also add another one which gave me courage at the time, which is ‘nature abhors a vacuum’… you have to create the vacuum before all the wonderful things in life can present themselves, exactly like the part time opportunity you’ve just been offered.
Well done, you are an inspiration:)
Carmel
January 16th, 2010 @ 9:20 PM
Wow Lina, Congratulations on making the decision to leave your comfort zone and make the move forward into the unknown, well done. Allen and I are proud of you, also great blog!!! Wonderful things are ahead for you, go girl!!
January 17th, 2010 @ 12:26 AM
Hey Lina,
I’m glad you have followed your heart and decided to put your energy to where you are most passionate about.
I know you wouldn’t have quit if you didn’t have the support network around you and the belief that you are destined for other things. It’s very scary to quit a permanent job. As you and Dean know, I quit my banking job, went to work in London for 7 mths, had no job when I came back, started studying fulltime uni whilst having an investment property and buying a new car in my first year of uni, which I paid off in a year. It’s very exhilarating and not for the faint hearted!
Congrats on the new job! I knew you’ll get it! Just seems like the perfect role for you (except maybe the renumeration, that’s SACs award for ya!).
I look forward to hanging out with you and Dean in Canada! Can’t wait!
Lots of love,
Loviner
January 17th, 2010 @ 1:05 PM
Congratulations on all of your life changing events. When the call is made, the universe will answer.
Fantastic Blog and looking forward to reading your future posts of your journey.
Cherie
January 18th, 2010 @ 10:20 AM
Hey Lina, congratulations to you for listening to your spirit, to trusting your instinct and not being afraid. I am sure that you have embarked on such an inspirational and wonderful journey by just taking a chance and being faithful. Very inspiring! Lisa
January 18th, 2010 @ 10:51 AM
Don’t you just love it when a plan comes togeather – don’t be nervous, you’ll be fabulous!!!!!
January 18th, 2010 @ 3:01 PM
How do I send you a personal email with my contact details
January 18th, 2010 @ 8:32 PM
Congratulations on making your dreams into reality Lina!
Looking forward to hear all about your new adventures.
Yvette
January 19th, 2010 @ 8:14 AM
Congratulations big sis!
I am very happy for you and cant wait to hear about all the new adventures ahead.
All the best xx
January 19th, 2010 @ 10:20 AM
Lina, this web page is so pleasant to read, nicely formatted and full of interesting things to hear about and ponder. It’s relaxing. Enjoy. xx Jessica
January 19th, 2010 @ 11:43 AM
Wow – you really have taken the plunge! But as they say – “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm” – Ralph Waldo Emerson I believe…….. and you certainly have that!
Good luck and I’ll be keeping an eye out for your updates.
Gaby
January 19th, 2010 @ 11:44 AM
Hi Lina
Congratulations! You go girl. You trust in that leap of faith and I’m sure it will surprise you. You know that you have our support in whatever you do.
Love and best wishes
Jaci and Paul
January 19th, 2010 @ 1:09 PM
Well done you – I’m truly in awe of your courage and single mindedness. You’re a real inspiration. Good girl for quitting the job when it was right for you and good luck in your next challenge. And the next, and the next…
Stay in touch
Heidi
January 19th, 2010 @ 3:46 PM
Lina, you are a truly amazing person and an inspiration to all of us who are lucky enough to have you in our lives.
The courage you show on a daily basis to go after what you want is leadership in motion.
Thanks for sharing this with us and having me be a part of your journey.
Here’s to many more adventures and a truly outstanding life.
Rob
January 19th, 2010 @ 4:45 PM
Congratulations Lina!!!
Enjoy the amazing journey that you’re undertaking. It’s definitely worth taking the leap.
I look forward to hearing about your adventures.
Maria
January 19th, 2010 @ 6:05 PM
Hey Lina,
Congratulations! May your journey through life be filled with many adventures, love, laughter and the best memories. Well done on taking the leap!
Jewel
January 20th, 2010 @ 8:58 AM
Wow Lina – that is awesome work.
“I’m going to run marathons, climb mountains and build businesses. Because there’s got to be more to life than my fears.”
Truly inspirational mate. I, and all of us here at Business Academy Online are behind you 100% of the way. Well done!
Lee
January 21st, 2010 @ 8:25 AM
Hi Lina,
Congratulations Lina and good luck with your wonderful business!!
I am so proud of you for living your dream. You have inspired me and made me feel like I am not alone in this. I had goosebumps while reading your post.
Lots of love
Karma
January 21st, 2010 @ 11:54 PM
Hi Lina,
You have a fantastic writing style, very refreshing and compelling. I look forward to reading more of your posts.
Colin
January 22nd, 2010 @ 6:25 PM
Wow – incredible post. Good on you for making the jump when you have a ’safe and secure’ option available to you. With great risk comes great reward…
January 24th, 2010 @ 8:28 PM
Hey Sis
Such a big leap!
Wow your such an inspiration to your siblings
X
January 25th, 2010 @ 9:08 AM
Great post Lina!
I know a lot of people will be inspired by this as they read it. Now and in the future!
Good work!
January 26th, 2010 @ 8:16 PM
Well i finally figured out how to do this blog thing – its not you, its me!! How could one little chick fit so much into one short lifetime?? Well done my friend… I wonder what the next 12 months will bring.
Jo
xo
ps can i house sit with you in Canada??
January 31st, 2010 @ 2:01 PM
Wow!
I am so happy you pointed me to your new blog Lina – seriously impressed thus far!
Congratulations on making that leap – you are about to embark on the journey of life and I look forward to you sharing it with us all right here.
Stay safe & talk soon.
Shayne
February 9th, 2010 @ 7:30 PM
Hi Lina,
Have to say that when I got your email I was not shocked. It always felt to me that you were looking for more out of life! Congratulations on doing the unsafe option and taking risks.
I don’t have a website (the link is to something that you may like) or a blog but would love to try and have a go of it as you know that I always have a lot to say, not always inspiring or witty or intelligent…but always with passion. I know I won’t do it but I will read yours with interest. I also loved your 365 day weekend! You have packed alot into your 30 years and I am sure there is alot more that you will achieve. Good luck!!! Give Guy a kiss from me on Sunday night!
July 14th, 2010 @ 10:38 AM
Inspiring!!! Follow your dream, follow your passion – Way to go!!
Thanks for sharing Lina.
Patryc
Patryc Lampasi´s last blog ..Power of the Subconscious Mind