I resigned...

Not from my job, but it's a good idea to prune what you do if what you do isn't fun anymore

Mar 09, 2024

My biggest news of recent weeks is my resignation from my position as Vice President of my weightlifting club of which I am a member (not my job if that’s what you clicked on — sorry!). In some previous newsletters, I briefly mentioned my trepidation towards my appointment in this role.

I can’t say the experience in itself was good but it was useful.

Lately, I’ve noticed that I’m stretching myself too thin. For most of my life, I’ve remained in roles for far longer than I should have. The problem is that I didn’t want to go through the awkward process of potentially upsetting others, even if it meant putting myself last, avoiding conflict, burying the resentment, and prolonging my misery.

The root of this all is the fact that I’m not okay with myself. When you’re not okay with me, I look to the validation of others to fill in the void. One way is the please others.

So, instead of trying to remain in everyone’s good books — or at least, thinking I was — by putting aside how I felt, what did I want to do?

I knew I didn’t have the passion for this vice presidency role. I detest endless communication, processes, and feeling unheard.

I must say that service like this often goes thanklessly. It’s tough. But also gives us meaning, purpose and a sense of community.

I’m grateful to have had experienced some of it. And I respect those who continue to be in these roles.

However, when the overall trend is worsening mood and lack of enjoyment, give yourself permission to step away.

I’m hoping I made the right decision in resigning from this role. It might be a turning point where I start to live life for me. And you, as a reader, I hoping what you can take away from this is that it’s okay to give up on things that you don’t find joy in — or don’t align with your vision as a person. Sure, it’s going to be awkward at first, but are you okay with putting up with short term pain for long term happiness?

What do you think about my decision to resign? What would you do differently? Are you going through a similar experience? Feel free to share in the comments (it helps others).

My Favourite Things

Film: Society of the Snow (2024) directed by JA Bayonne

This is a remarkable based on a true story event of a plane carrying member of a Uruguayan Rugby club crashing in the Andes. It’s a story of morals and incredible survival. I’d encourage you to watch it. There is also a film released in 1993, Alive, directed by Frank Marshall, which is based on this event as well.

Book: No More Mr Nice Guy by Dr Robert Glover

I was reading some reviews and the book is marred in controversy. As always, we need to look at this critically and take what we need while leaving what isn’t necessary. I would say some parts of me exhibit nice guy qualities — the lack of being okay with who I am, the need to please others, avoiding conflict.

Podcast: ManawaTech Podcast — Anita Vowell talks about Code Camp, Studying & Being a Manager

Kindle Highlight of the Week

"The problem of scientism—or an inflated, unwarranted confidence in the power of science to explain all of human life—exists both inside and outside the walls of the university campus." (Jason Blakely, We Built Reality)

Staying Focused

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