I'm still struggling with answering the inevitable question when you meet someone new, "So what do you do for a living?" Because honestly right now I feel like a broken record talking about how frustrated I am to still be working as a substitute teacher. I don't want to come across as a Debbie Downer. I also don't want to come across as entitled or selfish. I am thankful that I have a job, and somewhat of a steady income. I know millions out there have it worse off than I do.

I remember talking to someone about an "elevator pitch." It's the pitch someone comes up with to convey what you are most passionate about within the amount of time you'd be riding in an elevator with a stranger.

So instead of leading with being a substitute teacher, I've decided to lead with what I'm most passionate about, and where I see myself working. In my recent trip to D.C. my cousin pointed out to me how important it is to put what you want there out in the Universe. You never know what could come from a two minute conversation with a stranger. I'm finding out more and more that this whole job hunt and career building comes from networking, knowing someone who knows someone, and then putting yourself out there.

Moving forward, instead of answering that dreaded question with what I do, I'm going to start answering with what I'm passionate about (which is adolescent development and girls' self-esteem and health and wellness, for anyone reading this right now with connections to girl groups, junior high or high schools, nonprofits, etc...!)

xxo