Finding Inspiration in a Job Change

I’m a creature of habit.

Habits make me comfortable. I like knowing what is expected of me as well as what to expect from life.

I admit that I might even have a “touch” of OCD (as my husband is literally laughing his pants off )…Did I really just organize the refrigerator by the height of the items? For the third time today? Yes, that could be me.

I HATE change. It gives me anxiety. So. Much. Anxiety.

So why, why, why do I constantly seek change? That’s the question of the week. Or really, the question of my life.

Is it the challenge? That’s quite possible.
Is it a chance to start over a become a better version of myself? That’s quite possible, too.

Everything you have ever wanted, is sitting on the other side of fear. ~ George Addair

Anxiety isn’t the only emotion I’ve felt this week as I’ve started a new teaching job after more than 26 years of being at the same school. At moments, I’ve felt completely overwhelmed- to the point I’ve wanted to cry in the school bathroom. I’ve felt homesick and lost as I’ve looked around a crowded room, surrounded by so many unfamiliar faces. I’ve felt panic that I’ll never get all I need to be done in time for school to start. (Why did I think I needed to label every single box with wording done on the Cricut that makes me say ugly words?) I’ve felt extreme joy as I’ve seen the vision of my classroom come together. I’ve felt the excitement of knowing I can share my love of art with so many new students. And as an introvert, I’ve felt satisfaction in conquering social challenges, such as meeting new people and visiting different places.

Through all the emotions, I know that I am growing. And at 50, I am proving to myself that this old dog can still learn a few new tricks.

Here are a few highlights from the beginning of my new school year…..

I’m loving my new enhancement team. We are all a little bit of everything and I really think it works. We had a scavenger hunt earlier in the week. It was so fun! ( I made a shirt for our theme with the Cricut that makes me say ugly words.)

My room will always be a work in progress. I’m still working on bulletin boards. Are those ever finished? I want the art room to be bright and colorful…. a room full of fun and happiness. On the first day I worked, I hung up everything I owned, and my art room still looked empty. It’s going to take a while to have it as I want it, for sure. It’s such a big, fantastic room! I joked that I needed a chandelier for my foyer.

I have the artwork of former students that will always bring back great memories. Actually, I have every single thing that every student has ever given me. I have a little of NWE at PES!

I’m also learning to use new technology. Check out this board that’s a touch screen. It’s basically a giant iPad. So fun! I did finally figure out how to use it without my laptop. Learning new things!

So, to answer the big question…

I’m choosing to not use Doggett as my last name. First, because I’ve never changed it. Do you realize how many different last names I’ve had? And how much effort it is to change a name? I’m 50 and I’m over it. I really prefer to go to my grave with the name in which I was born. I actually tried using “Doggett” last year, by the way. And I was called “Mrs. Doggie” one too many times. It didn’t work for me.

So there you go…..

Back to the school….it is just SO PRETTY!!!!! Just look at these wrapped walls! And by no means am I downplaying all of my years in Wayne County. I love Wayne County Schools also. Each county is different, with different funding.

But y’all! I can’t get over this visual deliciousness!

For myself, no matter how much anxiety I feel about change, the excitement of the possibilities of personal growth has always prevailed. In this situation, I know, without a doubt, that I made the right choice in taking this new job. I’m excited. I’m renewed!

It’s no irony that this was the devotional on the first morning of my new job when I was my most anxious. And y’all, I BELIEVE!

I’ve said before that 50 will be my year of change and personal growth. I’m grateful for this opportunity! And in my journey, I hope that I can bless others and bring honor to His name.