Don’t label yourself!

This kind of builds on what I said previously about knowing yourself – don’t get caught up in a “label,” either. I’m finding it limits you and can be discouraging.
As young as I am, I have been suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome for years, and now arthritis in my hands on top of that. It’s making me look at things differently, especially careers. As you may know from my previous posts, I am still searching for my “right career.” I think it’s easy to get caught up in the title game – to be a doctor, lawyer, teacher, accountant. I read a great book for career changers and the author pointed out that you must focus on your strengths and what your interests are, not the job title. In my search for my next career, one thing has remained constant – I eventually want to own and run my own business, particularly from home. I live in the Midwest and winter is not the most fun when your car turns into a big ice skate in the morning commute! Anyway, I don’t enjoy my commute, I’m tired of the office politics, and the thought of working in the comfort of my home and my own surroundings makes me smile. So I’ve been looking into careers I can do from home. I have come across a couple, but my issue with CTS and arthritis must be taken into consideration. As much as I don’t mind doing office work, it’s taken a toll on my hands and fingers, and I can’t see myself doing computer work for the long-term, as much as I may be interested in computers, tech writing and graphic design. Does anyone know any massage therapists personally? I saw online there are quite a few people suffering from the same ailments as me, but they’re interested in a massage therapy career. Being an exercise instructor would suit me as well – I want to work my own hours, do something fun, and help others in the process. Is this something I saw myself doing when I was younger? Heck no – I thought I’d be a computer programmer! But, through the years, my interests have changed and I have to think of my health, too.
So, ultimately, do what makes you happy – don’t worry that it may not be something your friends or family expected you to do. YOU are the one who will be in that career, so make sure you enjoy it! And if you can relate to my dilemma, feel free to drop me a line!