[tjh]

This is a timely post for me, a regular reader of Steve's blog. Timely, for I feel a negative sense of apathy and envy from within me, causing me a dulled outlook on life, and a desire to do something about it. I immediately recognize the sources my apathy and envy. The primary source is my current job and the secondary source is not having any family or friends to talk to. Gee, where did everyone go?

So, tonight, before I read Steve's post, I came home wanting to express some of my angst. I wrote on a sheet of paper some of the things I have done in my life, instead of mentally diversional envy I usually take part in.

On my list was what I want in a new job. I've "served" my current employer for just over a year in a job I thought was mediocre in the first place. The position served as an opportunity for gaining some experience in a new area to me, but the position has lost all hopes of giving slightly more than a modicum of satisfaction to me. In fact, I am at a point where this position is counterintuitive to my financial goals and I need to make a change.

Recent accomplishments in my life have catalyzed my own self doubt and revaluation of what I should be paid. So tonight, I began a job search to fulfill new requirements: increase pay, work fewer hours, and live closer to work.

Sure, I'm still working for someone else, but I am too fearful (whole other issue) of going out on my own, full time, just yet. Maybe in another year or so.

In my vision of the future, I have taken care of the job already. So that leaves the friends and family. I think taking care of the job will automatically make the friends and family goal fall into place. Again, the post is very timely and its content helpful.