"Sorry, I am not offering you the position." The words seemed to echo and reverberate deep down into the marrow in my bones. I couldn't believe what I just heard. I was dumbfounded and disappointed. Over the last year, I had been chasing a promotion or new position, and had heard these words said to me repeatedly via in person or by a robotic email. But this last time, stung like a wasp's sting because it came from a mentor and leader of my current organization. She began to explain why, but I literally couldn't hear her words. It seemed that at that very moment of "no", my body completely shut down to avoid causing a "call security" scene. I was the most qualified, she admitted, but she could not extend the offer because "it would be a disservice to you, and does not align with your desired career aspirations and goals." Her comment, although true, did not provide any solace. I was smiling on the outside, but crying on the inside. I felt like a complete failure.
"Instead, I would like to turn your attention to an open position in this unit. It would be a lateral move, but I think it is better aligned with where you want to go." Still, dumbfounded, I uttered "let me discuss it with my spouse, and I will make a decision shortly." I smiled, shook her hand, and proceeded to walk out of her office with my confidence shattered, and the taste of hidden tears running down my throat. I went home that day, and gave myself eight hours to sulk and voice my disappointment about the decision with my husband. But after that, after feeling my emotions, I pulled it together and let her words penetrate for processing. The offer on the table was a chance at a lateral move, not a promotion. After much contemplation and reflection (including a pro/con list, prayer, and research), I decided to apply for the lateral position. I went through the interview process again, and this time, I was offered the position. Since the change of assignment, I have been happier and more productive at work! I am sleeping better, and I am learning new skills that are essential to where I want to be in five years from today. She was right! The lateral move wasn't a dead end, it was the opportunity to reposition for my purpose. Sometimes life requires us to move laterally. I know, we all like to move upward and onward. However, I rather move in a way the realigns me with my purpose than to move in a direction that will be detrimental to my future. It's frustrating, and can feel quite embarrassing, but it is only temporary. So embrace the lateral moves of life. Use it as an opportunity to acquire new skills and to learn more about your purpose. Soon that lateral move will propel you in the right direction! Have you ever been there? I would love to hear from you!
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AuthorAkon M. Walker, MPA, motivates readers to transform words of inspiration into life application. Archives
June 2019
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