Dream Job

Ever since Daniel and I have been dating and now married we have had this controversy over if pursuing what you love to do is really lucrative.  Daniel seems consigned to the fact that anything he loves to do he could never make money doing (ex. kayaking, diving, etc.).  I secretly think he wants to believe it though because he has a book on his bookshelf from when he was single called "Do what you love, the money will follow".  I have to say I am happy that Daniel is willing to do whatever it takes to provide for his family even if he does hate it, but I always thought there was a higher way. I on the other hand, have always pursued things that bring me fulfillment and that I am passionate about in hopes of someday getting paid well to do what I love.  For the past couple years I have been doing personal training (I do really like fitness), nonprofits (its the humanitarian in me) and yes, some grunt jobs just to make money (last month I was doing some housecleaning and window washing to earn income). 

 But I have never given up my hope that I could do something that just fit me perfect and that paid well--I finally found my dream job (at least for now).  I have been searching for a job that I could both use my fitness knowledge and interest combined with actually working in the area that I got my bachelor degree in (BS in Public Health/Health Promotion).  I just got hired as a health coach for American Speciality Health in downtown San Diego.  I am kinda like a lifecoach if any of you are familiar with that, and help people set goals and coach them in health areas in their life (the coaching is over the phone). Particularly, in weight management (exercise, nutrition etc.) tabacco cessation, and stress management.  It really is something I know I will love and it pays really well too.  Phone Health Coaching is an  up and coming thing in the health industry and with the economy going down it is nice to know that preventive health jobs are continuing to grow and I have stability there (my company continues to hire while many other industries are laying people off). The also have the most awesome benefits package ever ( not just cheap medical /dental but also massage and chiropractic etc.), which is one thing I was really looking for because I have been without health care, and Dan's job now doesn't offer it now.   Finding this job really is an answer to many months of fasting and prayer and  it shows me yet again that the Lord's hand is continually in our lives if we allow it to be.   One sure indication of this, beyond all the wonderful things I already mentioned, is that for the past couple months I have been praying to become a better listener and know how to show more understanding to my husband.  It turns out that at my job they give us intense training in deep listening skills and showing empathy--and now I will get expert training and practice these skills everyday on the phones with my members so that they really become a part of my communication skill set.  The things I am learning will defenitley make me a better wife, someday a better mother, and a better friend.  

PS. If anyone is looking for a job in the San Diego area, ASH is continuing to hire like crazy--all you need is a bachelors degree in a health or psychology related field.  Let me know and I can hook you up.