What I'd Really Say If I Was Brave Enough

For those who are regular readers, you know I decided a few months ago that I wanted to go back to working full-time. There are several reasons for this, but over these months, it's become even clearer why I want to do this now.

Don't get me wrong: I've loved delving into different passions. But ultimately, I missed being part of something. I missed people outside my family and friend groups. I decided I'm not quite ready to hang up my career.

But I have to say, applying for roles and interviewing at this point in my life is really different. I've found it especially challenging because I'm looking to expand my world and go beyond the industry I spent most of my career in. Breaking out has been tough. I've read all the articles, understand the advice, changed up my tactics, but still, it doesn't come without challenges.

The Question I Dread Most

You know what I've given the most thought to, though?

It's when you get into that first introductory interview and they ask the dreaded: "Tell me about yourself."

Now, I've practiced. I know all the things I should say. "I started my career here... I developed into a... I led this... My results were that..." It's all the things career coaches say you should do.

But in reality, have you ever had the desire to just say the things that immediately come to your mind when someone asks you that question?

I think it's because, as you know, I'm a bit sassy, and I love to make people laugh when I can. But I've also realized in these last few years that I am so much more than my job, no matter how big the title or how much responsibility it holds.

What I'd Really Say

Here's what I would really say if I was brave enough:

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"Hi, I'm Tracey. I'm a red-headed Gemini mom with two amazing grown daughters who are making their way into adulthood. I have one getting married soon and one who will graduate college next year. I couldn't be more proud.

Speaking of pride, I'm a proud wife to my husband of almost 27 years. We've been together for over 30 years, and he's my true-life partner through all of life's ups and downs. Even if we both get crabby sometimes.

We're empty nesters now, but we have two super cute (though honestly sometimes annoying) dogs who love me unconditionally from the moment I wake up until I go to bed each night.

I love to write. I graduated with a degree in English from UWSP. Writing has always helped me think through all the thoughts swirling in my head. I hope to be a published writer someday, in addition to my professionally published writings. (You can check my LinkedIn!)

I'd definitely share photos along the way!

We have a house on some small acreage and we raise chickens. Let me tell you, there's nothing like farm-fresh eggs. I'm a creative spirit at heart. I created two small businesses that fed my love of cooking, crafting, and baking.

I'm a hard worker at whatever I do, and I've been successful in my work. I've stayed with my employers through good and bad times and taken on more than I should have at times. Sometimes I felt like I was contributing to something bigger than me, but honestly, sometimes I felt very unappreciated. I found it difficult at times to be a mom, wife, and career person while also taking care of myself.

I've struggled with my weight and living healthy most of my life, but I finally feel like I've gotten a better handle on it. I don't like horror movies, but I do love historically based shows or woman-centered themes. And I love a good cooking or baking championship!

Sometimes I struggle with anxiety, but I have a comfortable home and family that supports me every step of the way. Most days I'm at peace now, and I feel that a new job would just add to that peace. I'm ready for whatever life is ready to throw at me next, because life has taught me that something will come, and you have to be prepared when it does."

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How about that? Wouldn't it be so refreshing to say those things out loud?

Why It Matters

I'm not a fool. I know no interviewer really cares to hear all that.

But what if it mattered? What if they saw you as a person and not just an "applicant"?

After all, in a week's time at a full-time job, you spend most of your waking hours there. Why shouldn't you be human there? Life isn't always roses and sunshine, but whether it is or not, you want to be your authentic self in all you do.

I have to admit, when I was younger, I didn't see the value in sharing my "personal life" at work and didn't care if others shared theirs with me. But time has a way of changing your perspective.

After all, if I don't enjoy the time spent with others, then what's the point? I could easily just click away every day, never talking or interacting with anyone. But what good would that do?

My Moral to This Blog

So, what's my moral to this blog? I'm not sure I have a clear one, except to say: Be genuinely you in any circumstance, as much as you can.

Maybe I'll get the courage in one of my upcoming interviews to start off by saying, "Hi, I'm Tracey, and I'm a red-headed Gemini..."

Who knows? Maybe that's exactly the kind of person they're looking for.