What NOT to Do

I’ve been seeking clarity about what to do in the next phase of life. I’m still undecided and confused. However, I have been getting a few clues on what NOT to do. As I try on different options, I realize some things are NOT a good fit for me:

-Things that take me away from home for too long. This is where all my favorite people live—my husband, my son, and my dog. It’s also where I do my favorite activities—take care of my loved ones, pray, write, and think. It’s where I store important tools that keep me functional--like books, comfort foods, running shoes, my bed, and all my kitchen utensils.

-Repetitive, mindless tasks. I want to do things that stimulate my mind and promote continuous learning. I easily get bored with unintellectual work.

-Any work that requires me to stay alert after sunset. I’m an early morning person. By late evening I run out of energy.

-Jobs that require manipulating the truth, making moral compromises, or squeezing a profit off the disadvantaged.

-Work that requires me to be quiet for very long—I need to express my thoughts, either by speaking or writing. I want to be able to connect with people.

-Tasks without a purpose—I have to feel like what I’m doing is meaningful and helpful.

-Things that make me feel incompetent—this would drain me quickly. I want to work within my skills and talents.

-Be in a toxic environment—surrounded by critical, unsupportive people or be part of a materialistic, profit-motivated group.