Stop Dreaming, Start Planning» Career change

Passion versus career – in the words of a 11th century Islamic philosopher

Team Esc — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 16:42:33 +0000

From Fabian Pfortmüller (from Sandbox) who writes a great blog.

“After that, I examined my motive in my work of teaching, and realized that it was not a pure desire for the things of God, but that the impulse moving me was the desire for an influential position and public recognition. I saw for certain that I was on the brink of a crumbling bank of sand and in imminent danger of hell-fire unless I set about to mend my ways.

I reflected on this continuously for a time, while the choice still remained open to me. One day I would form the resolution to quit Baghdad and get rid of these adverse circumstances; the next day I would abandon my resolution. I put one foot forward and drew the other back. If in the morning I had a genuine longing to seek eternal life, by the evening the attack of a whole host of desires had reduced it to impotence. Worldly desires were striving to keep me by their chains just where I was, while the voice of faith was calling, ‘To the road! To the road! What is left of life is but little and the journey before you is long. All that keeps you busy, both intellectually and practically, is but hypocrisy and delusion. If you do not prepare now for eternal life, when will you prepare? If you do not sever these attachments, when will you sever them?’”

http://pforti.posterous.com/passion-versus-career-in-the-words-of-a-11th

The Islamic philosopher Al Ghazali, in “The Faith and Practice of Al Ghazali”, p. 59

5 steps to your Great Escape

Team Esc — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:22:42 +0000

“A big thank you to Phil Bolton – our very own Escape Coach – for this practical and inspirational article. Phil has been through the very same transition he now helps people with. Which is one of the many reasons why he is the right person for Esc to be working with and we are thrilled to have him on board. Rob”

Full information on Escape Coaching

Introducing Phil Bolton – Escape Coach…

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re seriously thinking about making your Escape and doing something different. Congratulations.

I’m here to tell you that it is possible – and I’m living proof.

I made my own Escape five years ago and now I’m part of the Esc Team providing coaching and support to the next wave of Escapees.

I wanted to share a little bit of my story with you and my five key steps you need to make your own Escape.

My Story

Picture this – a grey office complex on a cold, rainy Sunday morning in November.

In 2005, a lone figure is sitting in front of a cardboard box – one of hundreds in the storeroom – rummaging through thousands of expense receipts.

In the background the radio is playing Sheryl Crow. The First Cut is the Deepest.

A single tear rolls down the cheek of the young man.

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably had your moment when the corporate dream came crashing down – this was mine.

I spent a decade working at a Big Four firm as a forensic accountant. I met some inspiring people, learned a huge amount and had some amazing experiences along the way.

In many ways it was the making of me, yet deep down I knew it wasn’t forever. Too many important ingredients were missing – passion, joy, excitement, balance and challenge.

I knew it was time to start my Great Escape. To read more about my Escape, check out my hero profile.

Five years later I’ve trained as a professional coach and built my own practice Less Ordinary Living. I’ve helped hundreds of professionals to find work they love and do something different and more impactful.

I’m proud to be an Escape Coach and partnering with ESC members to make their Great Escapes.

Based on my experience and watching my inspiring clients who’ve found work they live, here are five steps to make your Great Escape:

1. Get your head straight

Making a fresh start, a complete career change or setting up your own business will take courage and a positive attitude.

My family and friends thought I was nuts to give up a “secure” and established career path to train as a coach and I needed to be strong to stick to my guns.

I also know that the biggest barrier for many of my clients is in their own head. The voices of doubt and fear they face can be major challenges to making a significant change.

Getting your head straight means believing in yourself, understanding exactly why you are ready for your Escape and being convinced that it is possible.

With the right attitude, you’ll find that everything starts to become possible.

Your conviction will also be infectious to everyone you meet. You’ll start to generate the right opportunities to Escape.

2. Figure out what makes you tick

The ancient Greeks advised to “Know Thyself”, and never has this held more true.

When I knew I’d had enough of the corporate world, my biggest challenge was that I had no idea what I should be doing.

I was encouraged by my coach to spend time getting clear on what makes me tick. I got clear on my values, strengths, skills, passions and requirements from work.

I developed my story so far and considered what I love to do at work (helping other people make the most of their potential).

Once I knew what made me tick, it became much easier to identify career options that could provide that.

3. Create your vision of success

One of the best things I did back in 2005 was to set a vision for how I wanted my career and life to look in five years time.

Looking into the future is not always easy, however I started to paint a picture of what an ideal life might look like.

I saw a life where I was helping others to live life to the full and where I had a more flexible workplace, and a better balance between work and life.

It was so motivating to visualize that ideal future and to get an understanding of how I might feel if it was a reality.

Sharing this vision with others I trust was vital in keeping it alive as I went through my Escape.

4. Get support from others

After my moment of truth, I felt pretty daunted. I knew I wanted to escape but I didn’t know where to start.

I talked to friends and family who helped encourage me that making a change was possible.

One of them recommended working with a coach (something I hadn’t heard of).

My coach guided me through my Escape, providing me with support, an objective viewpoint, motivation and importantly a framework for making the change.

I built up a team of a few trusted people to support me in my transition and there were times when they kept me going.

Although it’s tempting to think we have to do everything for ourselves, I now know that getting help was the smartest move I made.

5. Take action

The biggest enemy to your success will probably be procrastination.

Making a big career change can be scary and overwhelming.

When you’re a busy professional that fear can manifest in the “I’m too busy with my important job (that I really dislike) to have time to make my career change (that I really want).”

I know I got stuck in this doom loop at a couple of points – usually when I was most concerned about failing or looking stupid to the world.

The best advice I got is to break down the big change into bite-size chunks.

Making change one small action at a time reduces the daunting nature of an Escape and removes the excuses about being too busy.

Before you know it, momentum starts to build and you’ll be on the verge of your Escape.

What are you waiting for?

If you’re ready to take action and think you might like some support, please visit the Coaching section on the site to find out more about how we can support you.

Large vs Small

Team Esc — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 10:14:02 +0000

“For nearly all of history the success of a society was proportionate to its ability to assemble large and disciplined organizations. Those who bet on economies of scale generally won, which meant the largest organizations were the most successful ones.

But in the late twentieth century something changed. It turned out that economies of scale were not the only force at work. Particularly in technology, the increase in speed one could get from smaller groups started to trump the advantages of size.

Large organizations will start to do worse now, though, because for the first time in history they’re no longer getting the best people. An ambitious kid graduating from college now doesn’t want to work for a big company. They want to work for the hot startup that’s rapidly growing into one. If they’re really ambitious, they want to start it.”

http://www.paulgraham.com/highres.html

What do you think?

Is small better?
How?
Why?
Do we all want to work for start-ups? (probably not)
Why is it frustrating to work in a large company?

From our perspective it’s the flexibility, independence and freedom that comes with running your own small company – as opposed to the lack of control that you (often) have over your own fate in a large organisation.

What do you think?

Essential Tips for Surviving a Bad Boss While Planning Your Escape

Team Esc — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:13:52 +0000

Work nightmare. Your boss is crazy person. We can’t say it any other way.

Some of the most successful careers I’ve witnessed have been born of women who are able to overcome one of the scariest situations – the very bad boss. It’s not an easy process – it requires focusing more time and attention on on a very frustrating situation, and hardest of all, taking yourself out of the vortex of victimhood.

Yes. Victimhood. I would make the case that bad bosses can be a choice. They will ruin your life ONLY if you let them. To prevent that happening, you can start by answering these 4 questions:

1. Who’s the bad one – really? This question requires some brutal honesty. Bad bosses do exist but most managers aren’t critical, bullying, withholding etc with people they like. If your boss is being a thorn in your side, the first thing you need to do is ask yourself if there is something about your performance or attitude is engendering that behaviour.

2. What’s the future for your boss? – In other words, how much do you trust your company? If they’re any good, they know about your bad boss and are working on an exit strategy. This process is likely to take longer than you want it to, so focus your energy on keeping your head down and doing a good job. It’s a different situation if your company tolerates bad behaviour…read on.

3. Do you want to work for a company that tolerates bad bosses? – The simple answer should be no. I don’t know of anyone who likes the idea of giving half her waking hours, if not more, to an organisation she doesn’t respect. But, if the company you’re working at is really the only gig in town for time being, there’s just one question left to ask yourself…

4. What is your password? – If you decide to stay working for a bad boss, you can come up with a password that lets you into an emotional place where you do not ride your bad boss experience like a roller coaster. It might be something like “This too will pass” or “I cannot have it all, all at the same time”. With a password you’ll still have bad days but you’ll take yourself out of the vortex of victimhood.

No one can take your happiness or your success away.

Tamarisk Saunders-Davies is the founder of Two Chairs Counselling, a niche therapy practice that helps women whose lives look great on paper but suck in real life figure out how to have happier, more fulfilling lives.

How To Find A Job You Love

Team Esc — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:37:36 +0000

We all know what the perfect job is. It’s highly-paid, well-respected, high-profile, intellectually stimulating and emotionally rewarding. We also know that isn’t our job.

We read the career biographies of famous musicians, actors, sportsstars, charity crusaders, politicians, celebrities and all-conqueringentrepreneur CEOs. We watch people fight for a dream job on TheApprentice. We see people energetically and passionately overcoming obstacles and achieving their ambitions and dreams. And yet we never seem to get to do any of this.

This class is designed to help you think about what you really want from your working life and what you want to do for a living. We start by looking at the factors that shape our career choices – from family background to personality tests – and whether these help or hinder our search for new opportunities.

We’ll explore what a meaningful job would really look like – one that does more than just pay the bills and instead expands our personal horizons. Should we be pursuing money or status? How important is it to have a job that embodies your personal values or that uses your talents? Is it better to be a generalist or a specialist – a wide achiever or a high achiever? Will your dream job really be as satisfying as you make it out to be?

http://www.theschooloflife.com/Classes/How-to-Find-a-Job-You-Love

How to land your dream job

Team Esc — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:09:59 +0000

With the downturn in the market, not only are job seekers aiming to escape the city they are seeking alternative careers. Any career change has a risk element, but it also presents you with an opportunity to reinvent yourself and focus on skill sets you may not have used, or don’t realise you actually have.

How To Land Your Dream Job

One key advantage the market now has is that companies are being more adventurous in looking at the transferrable skills prospective employees possess. For example, they know they have a bigger pool of candidates, but in tough economic times there is an indication that they want much more for their money and are looking at people with a wider skill set, who can work across a number of areas.

This is a key advantage for the job seekers who are looking at changing careers. Everyone has transferrable skills of great use to employers in different industry sectors.

Alex, a recent client at The Successful CV Company, came to us for career coaching. She had worked in the competitive and highly pressured arena of corporate consulting, for blue chip multinationals and was feeling pretty burnt out after 25 years focusing on for-profit companies. Alex was now ready to do more in the direction of ‘giving something back’.

Together we focused on her areas of personal interest, the life/work balance she was now aiming for and fulfilling her need of doing something for the greater good. We then packaged together her transferrable skills, which included:

Professional & Personal skill set

Her ability to meet ever changing needs
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
A well honed resilience working within time- critical environments
Proven team player
Having a persuasive and confident nature
Extensive knowledge and business contacts within blue chip organisations
A can do attitude, with an ability to communicate at all levels
Solution focused, adept at problem solving
Energetic and enthusiastic
Key skills in supporting and motivating a team

Whilst there were many other facets to Alex’s skills set, we focused on common denominators which would package well to prospective employers, in particular the charity sector which Alex was now sure she wanted to move into.

In Alex’s case, these key skills were perfect in marketing herself to charities for corporate fundraising roles. Through assignments I gave her, she was able to target the charities she most wanted to work for, and cold prospected her wish list. Within 9 weeks Alex had had 2 face to face interviews, 3 telephone conversations with senior individuals within 3 different charities, and then was offered what she describes as her ‘dream job’ for one of the UK’s leading charities.

An important aspect of Alex’s experience is that these were job opportunities not even advertised. A great example of someone creating their own desired outcome!

Alex made a decision to change; planned a step-by-step route to that change – incorporating specific goals and a time plan, and then executed all of these to reach a successful outcome.

She illustrated the need for making and sticking to a decision, having a well thought out plan and committing to making it happen. It’s interesting to note that Alex fed back to me that initially she thought that it was going to be really hard, but as the plan was forming she realised that it was entirely possible, which only added to her enthusiasm and excitement to her future.

If you are now at a place ready to create change; a simple way to start, is to list items in key areas:

The things you love to do
The aspects you are good at
Your personal qualities
Your specific work experience
The dream organisations you would want to work for

Then write down how 1+ 2 + 3 + 4 are transferrable to 5.

If you are having difficulties in identifying what you think you are good at and what you think your personal qualities are, then a great exercise is to ask 3-5 friends to write down their opinions of (2) and (3). It’s really interesting the feedback friends can give, and they of course can sometimes know you better than you know yourself.

You are ready to start targeting the dream organisations you want to work for. You now have all the tools to maximise your successful career development campaign!

Elizabeth Bacchus is a Career Coach, Change Management Consultant and Founder of The Successful CV Company www.thesuccessfulcv.com

It’s all about the money

Team Esc — Fri, 21 May 2010 13:36:24 +0000

Ultimately, your escape plan is doomed unless you have a proper ‘money plan’ in place. Dom and I have experienced this through our own escapes. We both have plans in place to help us survive the period between quitting our jobs and Esc paying for itself. I save on rent by living at home and I make ends meet by tutoring. Dom stayed in his job for longer, saving up a parachute fund to keep him going until we begin making money. He is also sub-letting his room in Wimbledon to Venus Williams’ hitting partner – but that’s another story.

The point is – money has the potential to derail plans in a big way

I was reminded of this lesson this week when 5 mates and I almost became the proud owners of a Bristol VR double decker bus. Those of you who have been following Esc from the beginning might remember our very first blog post:

Why everyone should have a ‘Double Decker Bus Savings Account’

Basically, the six of us having been saving £10 per week into a joint account. We recently got to the stage where we thought we had enough money to invest our hard-saved cash and buy our dream vehicle.

We do almost have enough money to buy a bus. Sadly, we didn’t have enough money to buy this bus (the ideal bus for us). In any case, the situation was that we were each going to have to stump up a fair amount of cash on top of what we have in our savings account to buy this beauty. Obviously everyone has to be on board for us to go ahead with the purchase. Due to a recent fire in one guy’s house and the fact that another might be moving to Brazil shortly (both very good reasons), we were unable to stump up the cash. The Bus Fund (TM) lives to fight another day (watch this space for a potentially prettier purchase!).

What this experience showed me was that it’s all about the money.

Make a proper money plan

One of the main excuses people use for not leaving jobs they hate is money. “I can’t leave this job because I need my salary”. Duh. Of course you need your salary, everyone needs some form of income. What some people don’t realise is that there are options other than staying in a job you hate simply because of the money question:

Save some of your salary to provide you with a parachute fund (a float) until you have an income again (like Dom)
Work out how to cut out your rent (most peoples’ biggest expense) – sub-let, stay with friends, move home (like Rob)
Take on part-time work, consultancy work, freelance work, or contractual work while you transition to your new plan
Line up another job while you’re in your current one – jump from one salary to another
Work on your business while you’re in your current job – only leave when the revenue streams are clear / working

What we’ve learnt from building Escape the City and talking to masses of people who have transitioned to a new business or career or adventure: You can have the best idea in the world, but if the money side of things isn’t water-tight your plan will fail. So don’t confuse the Escape the City philosophy with a ‘quit-your-job-and-sail-off-into-the-sunset-without-worrying-about-money’ mentality.

We say worry about money but act on it too.

Conduct a Personal Audit

Team Esc — Mon, 10 May 2010 07:48:50 +0000

GUEST POST: There are so many exciting opportunities on Escape the City; how do you begin to work out what’s right for you and reflect on who you are, the experiences you have gained to date and where you want to be in the future? Here are ten really important questions for you to consider – it would be great to have some feedback and comments – I’m going to expand on each of these questions later in my blog….

My name is Susie Lawrence. I run my own career consultancy, Runway – and specialise in working with young professionals – assisting in the self reflection process and reviewing options for the future.

Conduct Your Own Personal Audit

What are the ten most important questions that you need to ask yourself?

Do I get my energy and inspiration from the people around me or from my inner world?
Do I want to be known for being an expert or do I want to be managing and leading others?
What does ‘success’ mean to me?
I want to ‘make a difference’ in the work that I do; what does this mean for me?
Do I want autonomy and independence in my working life?
How will my next plan fit into my long term strategy? Am I keeping enough options open if I change my mind?
Do I look working with factual and concrete information or am I orientated to patterns, meanings and attuned to seeing new possibilities?
Do I want a regulated, scheduled working life or do I want to be more flexible and spontaneous in planning my time?
Do I make my decisions using a logical analytical framework or am I guided more by personal values and the impact of my decisions on other people?
Am I always seeking new challenges? What are the implications of this preference?

I would really appreciate your thoughts on these questions – as I would like to expand further on each of these points for you…

11 Ways to Use Big Finance to Help the World

Team Esc — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 22:50:50 +0000

This post is fantastic. Brett Veerhusen, Esc’s biggest fan from the other side of the pond, is currently working for BlueEnergy Group, writing for La Vida Idealist, and being kind enough to be Esc Hero profiled here and to write words of wisdom for our blog. Thanks Brett.

Please support me and blueEnergy give the gift of light to rural and poor coastal communities in Nicaragua. Donate to my marathon campaign. http://www.firstgiving.com/brettveerhusen

11 Ways to Use Big Finance to Help the World

Most of us scour Escape the City for a similar cause: to find reason, motivation and a chance to get out there, wherever there may be. But, how can you use your skills in a job that may not be the perfect fit to help organizations around the world?

I left my Analyst position at a top, Fortune 500 Company to work as the Controller for blueEnergy Group in Bluefields, Nicaragua. This organization builds and installs renewable energy like wind turbines and solar panels to rural, and very poor coastal communities along the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua.

Here are 11 methods to transfer the skills from your day-to-day city grind towards helping an international organization.

Uno:

Your professional skills are extremely valuable to the right organization. Do your homework and be patient and you will be able to advance your professional skills while gaining in-the-field experience.

Dos:

Contact local offices or branches of international organizations that interest you and set up an information session. Get face time with people already working for the cause you are interested in. Perhaps they know of an opening, within, or outside their organization.

Tres:

Microfinance organizations are popping up around the world. This is a perfect fit for those with big finance experience that want to volunteer and/or work abroad. Check out Microfinance Gateway, Kiva and Idealist.org for opportunities.

Cuatro:

Focus on a geographical area and subject matter. There are a myriad of opportunities and it can be daunting to find the right one. Narrow your search.

Cinco:

Start networking and volunteering locally. Every city has networks or groups for those interested in a certain subject. For example, I became involved with the Seattle Microfinance Organization, volunteered at their events, which connected me to individuals who worked for organizations that interested me, including blueEnergy.

Seis:

More often than not, international organizations, especially non-profits, can always use a helping hand with infrastructure. Your finance skills can be used in almost every organization. You have a hard skill and whether it’s human rights, renewable energy or education, every organization can use your help.

It is difficult to have streamlined processes with such harsh working conditions particularly if many people who work for the organization are volunteers. Big finance teaches you how to pay attention to detail with strong technical skills. These are extremely valuable assets to any organization. Use them to your advantage and market your skills. Are you an expert with macros or other fancy Excel expertise? Use it. Can you streamline an accounting system and processes? Use it.

Siete:

Be creative where you search. Smaller and lesser known organizations can use your help too. Look for eco-lodges in Latin America or perhaps an orphanage in Africa, both of which can truly benefit from your skills.

Ocho:

Do you want to go to a country and learn the language? Are you willing to spend a significant amount of time abroad, but can’t track down the right organization?

Go to the country that you have chosen, enroll in a long-term language immersion program and wing it. Once you are on the ground in the country, you’ll have a much better opportunity to connect with places that need your help. Focus on a more metropolitan area to start.

Also, you can talk to other travelers and locals who know more than what the Internet can tell you. If you want to learn Spanish, for example, book a ticket to Nicaragua and you can expect to pay roughly $150-200 per week for a homestay, two meals a day and 20 hours of private tutoring. This is a great situation to put yourself in because you are learning another language and getting a better perspective on where you want to work. Get out there and stop procrastinating.

Nueve:

Be relentless. Email, call and knock on the doors where you want to volunteer. Remember that many of these organizations do not have the infrastructure to handle all inquiries in a timely manner. Show your dedication by being persistent.

Diez:

Micro-entrepreneurs are a growing sector. This is similar to microfinance, but on a slightly larger scale. Your business experience, especially with developing financial structures and perhaps accounting systems are hugely valuable. Organizations are helping locals incubate small businesses to build capacity on how to run a successful enterprise. You’ve already worked for a successful company and can transfer your skills to smaller businesses.

Once:

Forget finance and give everything else you got!!! Volunteer for an orphanage, or even an organic farm through WWOOF. You can gain valuable in-country experience while breaking away from the 9-5. Plus, you can learn another language, which will open doors and pay dividends (pardon the financial nerdy terms) in the future!

Feel free to contact me if you have any specific questions and hopefully I can be of service. Have fun searching… remember how lucky you are to have the opportunity to help others. Not everyone has the same chance; we have no control what reality we are born into.

You can ask Brett a question at the bottom of his Hero profile or get in touch via his First Giving page.

Google serves free food!

Team Esc — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 11:45:12 +0000

I had the distinct pleasure of having lunch with a friend at Google’s London HQ in Victoria last week (thank you!).

I say that it was a pleasure because it was great to see her and we had a good old chat (obviously had nothing to do with my delicious lunch and the fairy cupcake that fuelled my ride home).

However, it was also a fascinating place to have lunch because Google’s offices are the poster-child for progressive, 21st century working environments:

Delicious free food for breakfast, lunch and supper
A massage room
Deck chairs for working sessions
Cool meeting rooms
Tuck shops on the corner of each floor
Informal dress-codes

Google is one of the most exciting and most influential companies in the world and works in some of the most revolutionary industries: the internet, online search and digital marketing. Google is changing how we search for and consume information, it is changing how we interact with each other and with our environment.

And yet… all most of us focus on is the free food!

Ultimately, however, the cool perks of working there are essentially distractions from the main thing that goes on at Google: office work.

Despite all the exciting things that Google is achieving; all the amazing innovations, and the great products, the work done by a lot of people at Google won’t be that dissimilar to the work done in many other office environments.

There will still be spreadsheets and screens, costs and revenues, clients and suppliers, budgets and targets…

So why do the small perks have such a big bearing on our impressions of what it’s like working at Google?

Perhaps because small details have a considerable influence on whether working somewhere is a positive or negative experience?

Google is proving that there is no set rule regarding what an office in the 21st century should look like.

Google is proving that you can be a large corporate behemoth and still allow people to have fun at work.

Google is proving that the more you allow people to be themselves, the more they will deliver high quality work.

How refreshing it must be to work in a large corporate company that seems to pay more than just lip service to the ‘our employees are our best asset’ cliché… I’m sure there are plenty of other big corporates around town that could and should take a leaf out of Google’s books…

Esc Update from India

Team Esc — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 23:21:06 +0000

Roly Bagnall – our 3rd ever Esc Hero from October 2009 – has kindly shared the following update with us. He left his London-based job with BNY Mellon in 2009 and moved to India to spend some time working in micro-finance. Check out his recent adventures below:

“Arriving in India had its challenges before I had even picked up my luggage. Nothing can prepare you for a new country, city, climate or lifestyle and at first your senses are heightened to absorb your new surroundings. The heat and humidity, the catastrophic din of the thundering traffic, the unfamiliar smells that rise from the gutters and the awe inspiring sights that behold you around every corner had to find its place in my mind beside the ordered and familiar world I had left behind in London. This adjustment can take weeks, even months and still I see things every day that surprise or appall me.

“After a some weeks of traveling and learning as much about this wildly diverse country as possible I had returned to Mumbai to face the challenge I had set myself – to immerse myself within a new industry.

“It would have been far easier and I expect a lot more fun to continue hostel-hopping around the country from beaches to hill stations to backwaters and tea plantations but that would have been too easy.

“After a two weeks sharing a bathroom with a pigeon and a dormitory of talkative Indian men I had at long last shrugged off a particularly stubborn chest infection (one of the perils of living amongst the smog of such a vast city) and managed to secure an interview after several applications to numerous Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) and Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

“Having been offered a position with a probation period of a few months I now had a reason to get up in the morning and out of my dilapidated hostel. However getting to work was to prove a daunting daily challenge and not for the faint hearted. Nearly 2 hours utilising nearly every mode of transport the city has to offer including the notorious Indian trains which are very practical but not particularly comfortable when shoehorned in until it would seem the carriage would burst. At times ones feet lift off the floor buoyed by the heaving mass of limbs and torsos as if suspended in water. The only answer is to hang tough to the handles and keep your head above the swell.

“A rickshaw driver may, or he may not take me the last leg of my journey depending upon which side of bed he got out of. Sometimes refusing me a lift or worse taking me half way only to spit me out to cross a mine field of faeces, left fresh that morning by people on their morning constitutional. Once in the office it’s business as usual until I have to do the same journey in reverse. (I have saved you from the details of the rest of my journey).

“I hope to stay out in India just as much as I am loathe to return to work in London whilst sentiment is so dire.”

What was the final breaking point that made you up and leave your previous job? Was there any defining moment – someone saying or doing something that made you think – right I’m off?

Having spent a couple of years nestled amongst grey filing cabinets, Formica desks and glaring at a bright monitor day in and day out, tapping keys whilst gripping the telephone with my chin to my shoulder, things didn’t look any brighter once the full effect of the credit crunch came to effect.

Prospects were few and far between as most people clung anxiously to their desks in fear of redundancy. I was tired of treading water waiting for the hot soup we were all wallowing in to rise and spit me out of the cauldron.

All these months on how do you feel looking back – was it as difficult as you thought? All the things that prevented you from doing what you wanted – fears of financial security etc. – are they real hurdles you had to overcome or are their other more daunting challenges?

In hindsight, there were plenty of doubts and just as many friends and family full of foreboding. Primary concerns included career progression, financial stability and strangely enough what would be in store upon my return. Earning a salary brings comfort in knowing what you have to play with each month, to put aside for a rainy day and to cover bills etc. but when half of it goes on rent and another slice goes into the pockets of utility companies there is little left to fill one’s cup, or beer glass.

Aside from the friends made in the office and the modest quarterly bonus there was little keeping me from taking the plunge and with it came a sense or euphoria coupled with the excitement and anxieties of what lay before me. The only thing to do was get cracking on visas, insurance, flights and travelers cheques etc. Once my fundament and both arms had been punctured more than a popular voodoo doll, I was set. I was on my way to India for about as much ‘change’ as I was likely to find anywhere.

I might add however, that nothing has given me more satisfaction than hanging up my boots on my own accord and stepping out of my comfort zone with so many ‘what-ifs’ and variables ahead.

What advice would you give to people getting itchy feet? Plan ahead and then leave or take the plunge and then get planning afterwards?

Itchy feet can only be cured with a good scratch. My first consideration would be my ties to my job, family or mortgages for instance. Of course only you can decide whether this is the right move at the right time for your own reasons, but if you have an objective then that helps to justify the cause. I had decided to learn about microfinance whilst enjoying a change of scenery and lifestyle – not all of which would be pleasant. I would refrain from a loafing about on a bummel especially if you are deliberating as to whether this is a justifiable decision.

As soon as you have lost momentum in your current position I should make up your mind as quickly as possible. Do your research, book flights if necessary and that way you are partially committed. The rest will follow.

Many people will be skeptical of radical decisions like this but I think that if you have an objective that can be justified then there you have nothing to lose. You’ll only regret what you don’t do.

Is it important to do something rewarding as far as making a positive impact on the planet or simply to go ahead and do what you want – live your dream?

In my opinion I feel it is important to have something productive to do. I wouldn’t recommend flittering about on the breeze when you could achieve so much and gain an awful lot from participating in something new and exciting, be it charitable, fund raising, conservation, teaching etc. Any of these things can take you to the ends of the earth and can provide an abundance of challenges as well as its rewards.

At the end of the day you will have to answer the critics if / when you return to your line of work.

10 articles worth a read

Team Esc — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 11:24:15 +0000

What interesting articles about changing jobs / interesting careers / starting your own business have you read recently? Fancy sharing them below in the comments box?

Esc Hero #28: ‘I am attempting to become the next big thing on TV’

Team Esc — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:40:51 +0000

1. What are you currently doing with your life?

My name is Emily Bell and I am attempting to become the next big thing on TV.

I’m currently presenting for ski programmes, helping out with Escape the City (interviewing Esc Heroes!), organizing a Bar Mitzvah, working on film sets… The list goes on…

2. What does this involve on a day-to-day basis?

Every day is different, which is exactly what I love. Routine scares me, bores me and makes me go out of my mind. Every day I’m working with different people. I’ve met SO many people over the last year and everyone in the land of media is super friendly and so willing to help. It’s incredible. In terms of TV presenting, I have been putting together my website – headshots, show reel etc.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJxaztxth8M

I meet with every single person that I think can help me. I stalk and research everything I can…

I walk EVERYWHERE because I have the time. Life is good…

3. What did you do before?

For 1 ½ years, I sat at a desk for 12 hours a day for with silly fake lights, doing financial headhunting. The people rocked so it took me a while to think “WHAT AM I DOING?!” The people are great, the work can give you a serious buzz and it works for loads of people… I just couldn’t handle planning for the weekend the entire week. I live in a world where I want every day to rock my world.

4. How long have you dreamt of doing this?

From the age of 0, my Mum always thought I should have been an actress but I can’t act… So presenting was putting on a show without having to be anyone else…

5. What inspired you to do it?

What was the moment of truth when you realised that you would turn the dream into a reality?

New years eve 2008/9… I thought “I actually can’t go back”. I realized how much my job wasn’t for me at about 11pm and by midnight, I had made the decision to do something about it.

6. From a practical perspective, how did you plan for it?

If you are a practical person, ignore me… I literally did nothing to plan for quitting and made the decision in about 24 hours! Before Christmas, I had no energy, sat on the end of my bed at 6am and just wanted to scream my head off at the thought of sitting at a desk. Then I would drag my butt to the gym, to my desk, home and start all over again. The thought of going back to the office in 2009 and doing that for any longer made me realize it was time. I’m also a complete dreamer, so the drama and spontaneity was also part of the fun…

Since quitting, I was introduced to two incredible presenters who run www.presentersinc.co.uk – If you are interested in getting into presenting, speak to them. They are brilliant. I did lots of running work for them and then they helped me prepare, film and edit my show reel. They are also seriously helpful in the entire world of presenting. They know what they are talking about. Other than that, I have taken on every single opportunity that could potentially introduce me to people, get my name out there etc… I’m sending out my website and show reel as we speak, so I’ll keep you posted!

7. How are you funding it?

I think I’m quite lucky. Other people may disagree. I live on a sofa at the end of my parents bed at 24! Not so cool but I have been saving up from all the work I’ve been doing and enjoy every single day. Life is seriously good. I would rather live on my parents sofa and do what I’m doing, a million times more than live in a pretty room and be bored out of my mind with my job.

8. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

The presenting world is seriously competitive. There are millions of chicks that want to get on TV… but the jobs I’ve done so far have come from meeting people on nights out. So you never know where your next job is going to come from! Don’t take the rejection personally and keep going!

9. What is the best thing about making this happen?

I love every single day. Walking around all day instead of being tied to a desk. Meeting so many rocking people. I also traveled and filmed round Nepal and India for two months over the summer!

10. What is the best advice you have ever received?

Dory in Finding Nemo says – “Just keep swimming”

11. What advice would you give to other people?

Don’t give up and also the most likeable people on TV are natural so be yourself… That sounds corny…

12. What resources have you found really useful?

Sally Gray and Jonas Hurst – www.presentersinc.co.uk – THE PEOPLE TO KNOW!

Contacts 2010 – Lists everyone that you need to know in the media world!

Rob and Dom – After the first Escape the City event, I got a work placement at a production company, I was introduced to a presenter, a director and also got my own e-mail address with them and started helping out. They rock! The first speaker, Justin Miles, has been sending out my website for me so he rocks too. Also I’ve met so many freaking dreamers. I love that…

13. What else?

If you want to laugh your head off, check out www.embell.co.uk

14. Are you interested in being video interviewed for the site?

Can I interview myself?

15. Are you interested in being contacted for advice?

Sure… But I’m not sure if I can give anyone else advice yet. Maybe once I’ve got my first major job!

Oh… and one last piece of advice [this is from Rob, not Emily]… if your friends tell you that you would be great in their ski video… they don’t necessarily mean on the SLOPES!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pS0BO6zhCYM

Esc Hero #26: Fijian Island living: ‘I was single, no mortgage, and no debts’

Team Esc — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:12:32 +0000

1. What are you currently doing?

My name is Stu Kimberley. I’m Project Manager for Madventurer (www.madventurer.com) based in Fiji. Managing a portfolio of Volunteer Community Sports Coaching, Teaching Placements, Building Projects & Adventure Tours.

Currently off-season till Feb 2010, so am now in my Fijian friend’s village, settling for the laid-back Fiji lifestyle of kava drinking, rugby playing, farming, spear fishing and watching the world go by.

2. What did you do before this?

Island Manager (www.tribewanted.com) 18 months spent living & working on a beautiful, remote Fijian Island leading a cultural and sustainable tourism project. Before that then it was desk jobs in the UK. Sales Management experience across the Fitness, Automotive and Music Industry! Have got a dusty Marketing Degree certificate from a very long time ago…

3. How long have you dreamt of doing this?

I haven’t really. It’s all happened rather accidentally. I only came to Fiji for a 3 week holiday…that was 3 years ago. Since then I have realized I am living the dream of many, so going to keep going as long as possible.

4. What inspired you?

Within 24 hours of landing in Fiji I realized there was more to life than a 9-5 desk job for the next 40 years. It’s a beautiful place, beautiful people, and an amazing, interesting culture. All around the world there are different challenges, different rewards but I have been given a great opportunity and I’m having fun.

5. How did you plan?

I was single, no mortgage, and no debts and had a seemingly unsatisfied subconscious ‘adventurous’ quality. I was given an opportunity to work on a tropical island. It didn’t take long to decide. Moving to MAD gave me the chance on a new project with different demands and opportunities. You’ve still got to test yourself. When jobs get easy they become less and less satisfying.

6. How are you funding it?

MAD pay for my flights, and cover most living costs when on projects. The wage I get covers the costs of beer, boardies, flip flops and anything else. What bits I save cover the months when I take time out in the village, or if I head back to the UK for a ‘holiday’!

7. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

Initially, living on a small island took some adjusting. Settling into the community and a new culture was challenging, but rewarding when you make the effort. Fiji will always throw up interesting working demands. Though im working longer hours, with less pay, I have since found money is less important.

It is about happiness and testing yourself. Managing Fijian employees is always an exciting challenge. The English & Fijian culture will sometimes crash head on…it’s how you respond and learn from it that matters.

8. What has been the best thing about having made this happen?

A whole host of new opportunities open themselves up having done something like this. Pushing yourself into a new challenge, new culture, and being away from ‘the comfort zone’ will stand out better on a CV than any ‘work experience’. You are constantly learning. It’s about life experience and adding ‘dimensions’ to yourself.

I have met some amazing people and shared some amazing moments.

I just have to decide which opportunity and adventure to follow next…

9. What is the best advice you have received?

Network

10. What advice would you give to other people?

Network!! Social networking sites, the internet, face to face…

Opportunities, support and advice are there, you just have to have a little search for it.

You’ll be surprised what doors can open up. The simplest conversation could turn into you achieving your dream.

I’ve met so many creative, adventurous and inspiring people. The slightest spark is enough to chase a dream.

Challenge yourself.

Set yourself a plan, and go out and make it happen. A goal will keep you focused. 6 months, 12 months. 2 years, 5 years – whatever works for you.

You can keep doing what you are doing, or you can go out change it. Don’t be afraid to try something different, even if it’s just for a year or two.

11. What do you do when you’re not managing the project in Fiji?

Reading autobiographies and anything sport, travel/adventure related. For numerous different reasons the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Theo Paphitis, Lance Armstrong, Mark Beaumont, Alastair Humphreys etc etc – good books for inspiration.

Relax with sports and mountain biking, and starting to play with a few web ideas – my blog site & fun creative stuff (work in progress!)

12. What next?

A busy 2010 Season ahead, maybe end with an endurance bike ride across Fiji, possibly leading to a bike trip across Europe or further in 2011.

Discussing other opportunities in Fiji. Got ideas, just lack capital, though I have been asked to help develop and market a new island development project. It’s got the most amazing beach! Hmmmmm…..

Esc Hero #21: Why I swapped London for an International Journalism MA in Cornwall

Team Esc — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 22:46:57 +0000

A quick note:

It is a huge pleasure to introduce Miss Zoe Graham, the writer of a brilliant film blog and one of my closest friends.

Zoe was a huge source of advice and encouragement when I was working through my own resignation earlier this year (thank you!).

Check out her blog: A Little Screening Of Life and have a read below about the exciting changes she has made this year.

1. What are you currently doing?

I am on a train looking out over the Devon coastline having been surfing at first light and spent the morning in a radio recording studio in Falmouth… I had no idea back in March that I would end up here!

I am in living in Falmouth at the moment to study for a Masters in International Journalism, although I seem to be getting involved in all sorts of other creative projects down here.

This is partly why I decided to move down to deepest darkest Cornwall! I figured I could have a completely different, creative, ‘healthy’ year!

The potty-ness of the idea also tempted me. As did that it wasn’t going to charge me $50,000 a term – the small fee for a creative calling to do a Masters in the film industry…

2. What did you do before this?

I did brand management/marketing for LVMH for a couple of years in London, having worked for them in Paris for a year before. It was brilliant at first when I felt I was learning so much so quickly. It demanded and afforded me an intense social lifestyle in London and I just got completely swept up in the frenetic rush of the day to day. It is amazing how easy it is to slip into constant running in London and not giving yourself that much time to stop and think.

I definitely didn’t hate my job by any means. I worked with some great people and got to surround myself with wonderful and whacky creatives on projects we did. Working with these people, however, started to make me feel like I needed to go and try myself out on their side of the fence rather than the safer, corporate bubble I was in.

3. How long have you dreamt of doing what you are doing now?

I don’t think I decided to do this to follow a set dream but rather to put myself in a creative place that would allow me to find that dream!

I think my greatest dream is to be a filmmaker eventually. I have just spent 4 days on a BBC screenwriting course and am now busy writing a script to send them.

What interested me most about the international journalism masters was what it could teach me about the world, taking me out of just ideas and the marketing bubble to being actively informed about what is seriously going on. This doesn’t come as naturally to me as the literary/creative side of life so I guess it was also a challenge.

If I want to make documentaries (I am going to Brazil next year to do one on sex tourism in the north east) and films, then I want my thought-processes to be grounded in global issues.

For ages I got paralyzed with questioning what I should do, who I should be, what my dream was etc… SO boring and self-involved, and easily happens when you haven’t found the right thing. But I’ve realized that starting with one idea and seeing where it takes you, and onto the next, works for me so hopefully I’ll get to all of them at some stage.

Life is, after all, just a series of experiences.

4. What inspired you to do it?

There was no actual ‘moment of truth’ when I decided to pack in the London 9-5-10-11… I think I knew all along with my job that it was something for the time being but not a real passion that would become a lasting career.

Perhaps the timing did have something to do with spending a couple of mind-altering weeks in Brazil over Carnival, surrounded by people who lived such a different pace of life and where any so-called London ‘priorities’ are completely turned on their head. The northeast of Brazil is, for me, one of the most beautiful places in the world, which inspires all thoughts good and creative and true… I think it just kicked me into thinking what was I going to do with myself that could actually be those things…

5. From a practical perspective, how did you plan for it?

The actual events are pretty straightforward. I quit my job in March, in time for a prolonged Easter holiday! It was a good time to hand in my notice as the company was undergoing a ‘restructure’ (lingo for sacking people… as if we are all part and parcel of this great scheme to save the mother ship, lose the dead weight- please…) and wanted to move me onto different brands – so it meant I got gardening leave! They weren’t about to start me on new brands for the sake of two months.

I quickly applied to Falmouth to do international journalism, got a place, a grant… and here I am!

6. How are you funding it?

I got an Arts & Humanities Research council scholarship, which luckily covers quite a bit. I did all sorts of freelance projects to make ends meet in the interim: working with Saudi Arabian artists at the Venice Biennale, translating, teaching, working for a while at The Spectator magazine.

I still do a bit of teaching and translations to make money and for the short films and documentaries, I am trying to get funding from various sources: South West Screens, Cornish Enterprise, a couple of Welsh documentary production companies… It is amazing how there is quite a bit of money in the regions (mainly from the EU) available to fund the creative industries.

7. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

It is hard work having more of a freelance mentality – having to be constantly look for new ideas and projects rather than having it laid on a plate for you but it’s that challenge and knowing that any day could be completely different that makes it exciting.

Quitting a job is also harder than you expect because of that feeling of letting people down, especially people who have invested in you. But I think everyone understands that you do have to do what is right for you and luckily I think I left on good terms with everyone!

8. What is the best thing about having made this happen?

As I said, just being able to get involved in so many creative and random activities! I’ve only been here for a couple of months and it could pretty much be described as the polar opposite of London life.

I live in a little cottage by the sea with 3 housemates who I met down here and who come from all over, each doing something different- illustration, curating, advertising. People have come here from such diverse backgrounds and the vibe is completely open and relaxed.

My course is a mixture of journalism for TV and radio as well as print, so I am learning all sorts of technical skills that are fascinating. Aside from the course, there is other training available and the added advantage of having a creative hub on your doorstep so I have been learning camerawork, lighting & editing as well as meeting people involved in film down here.

I am currently working on a couple of short films.

9. What is the best advice you have received?

Michael Weise said this to me when I was asking him about his career in film and how to break into that world, when you feel that is your creative calling! He said: ‘For as long as you can, make it about the art. It should be about expanding your perception and consciousness, not trying to make money’.

10. What advice would you give to other people who want to do something similar?

My slightly dysfunctional mantra is kind of along the same lines as his: it is better to do something and get it wrong than block yourself from experiences for the sake of mind-numbing security. At least it is feeling!

I don’t think there is a straightforward answer to ‘escaping’ the city but that it comes down to being honest about whether you are actually happy.

Through all this I’ve realized, I think, that I am happiest when learning and engaging with new things even if it does mean a slightly more precarious existence!

Esc Hero #20: From Recruitment to Charity Fundraising

Team Esc — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 21:47:31 +0000

1. What are you currently doing?

My name is Mohini Raichura. I currently work in Corporate Fundraising for the charity The Outward Bound Trust.

2. What did you do before?

Worked as Operations and Training & Development Manager for a niche, start-up recruitment company for 3.5 years

3. How long have you dreamt of doing this?

I have had aspirations to work within the Third Sector ever since graduating from university but like many people “fell” into my corporate role and continued up that ladder.

It was only in the last 1.5 years that I began to realize how unhappy I was and decided to make a change.

After some time spent researching and considering the different options available to me in the Third Sector I decided upon corporate fundraising for charities and spent all my energy getting my foot through the door!

4. What inspired you to do it?

It was a combination of exasperation with my previous job and having a birthday! Turning a year older is, in itself, not an issue for me but in the context of not enjoying what I did for 60 hours of the week it forced me to adopt a real “now or never” attitude and I decided to actually change my life.

5. From a practical perspective, how did you plan for it?

I, perhaps rather unwisely, resigned and then dedicated my full resources to writing [and re-writing!] my CV, gaining voluntary experience, meeting as many influential/well connected people within the sector as possible and applying for interesting roles.

6. How did you fund it?

Whilst I was ‘unemployed’ and looking for new roles I found myself some opportunities to use the skills I attained as a Sales Trainer in my previous role to secure some freelance sales work and would often do the odd day temping every week to tide myself over.

I also re-prioritised my spending and accepted that I wasn’t going to be able to afford the same lifestyle I previously had so made some sacrifices and reminded myself of what the end goal was.

7. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

The hardest thing was keeping the momentum going and finding new leads to chase, applying for new jobs and speaking to new people after a few knock-backs.

There were days when it all seemed bleak and as though it would have been better to maintain the status quo in my “previous life” – and it was times like that when either my friends, my family or the “future me” had to give me a bit of a kick up the ass!

8. What has been the best thing about having made this happen?

Through my networking I have secured myself as a role for the CF Trust, a charity I am very passionate about, and consult with them on a number of issues from communication and marketing to major donor fundraising.

They also send me out to events such as Richard Branson’s “Raising funds from the rich” seminar which takes place in London next week and it’s brilliant for me to have these sorts of opportunities and experience.

9. What advice would you give to other people who want to do something similar?

I think that anyone looking to jump ship and dive into something new [excuse the awful puns] needs to read about and speak with as many relevant people as possible.

Using the experience I had gained in the world of recruitment I was able to approach a director of fundraising at a major charity who I had seen present at a third sector networking do. My conversation with him over the telephone resulted in my being invited in to shadow him and his team for a day at work. At the end of this day, to my great delight, I was offered a contract role as a researcher in their team for two months, without which I would never have been considered for an interview at my current job.

Network, network, network! And be prepared to get your hands dirty and volunteer/intern/shadow people wherever possible.

10. What resources (books, websites, articles, events etc) did you find really useful?

The Guardian obviously has a very good site but I think you ought to find as many niche sites/recruiters for your chosen sector as possible and make yourself known!

For the world of charity I highly recommend Third Sector and the recruiters Kage Partnership, Harris Hill and Eden Brown.

11. What else?

Outside of the resources mentioned above one of the tools I found most helpful in getting a foot through the door was listing every person I knew on a piece of paper and asking them who they knew who would either be able to speak to me or put me in the right direction to gain work experience, look at my CV or just provide me with their insight into the industry.

Some of the most valuable information came from friends of mine who do not work in the third sector and who I would not have even considered asking for help. Again, network, speak to people, get out there! Make it all real for you.

Esc Hero #19: How I escaped Fund Management for a Tech Start up

Team Esc — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 23:31:26 +0000

1. What are you currently doing?

My name is Flo Spelling. I am working at an internet start up company – which involves a bit of everything, strategy, project management, marketing, admin and tea making!

2. What did you do before this?

I worked in the city for 7 years in fund management.

3. How long have you dreamt of doing this?

It wasn’t a dream!

Just an opportunity that came up at a time when I was wondering “Is this really it? Is this what I’m going to do for the rest of my life!”

4. What inspired you to do it?

The sales pitch of the other guys! No, it was just the realization that I had skills that were very transferable and valuable in a different market.

The actual moment of truth came during contract negotiations and my father wasn’t very well – made me realize that life is too short to be doing something you don’t like and you have to take every opportunity that you can.

5. From a practical perspective, how did you plan for it?

No planning – I just made the leap. Had I planned, I might not have done it.

6. How are you funding it?

Unusually for a start up, I am being paid (although not much!) and I’m fortunate that my life is pretty flexible, I don’t own a property, have a family to look after etc.

However, I’ve still had to make sacrifices, but I think it’s worth it, what’s the point of being paid lots of money if you’re not enjoying what you’re doing – or if you don’t get the chance to spend it!

7. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

Having the belief that it was the right thing to do – and convincing others of that!

8. What has been the best thing about doing this?

It sounds like a cliché, but I have learnt so much about myself, what I enjoy doing and what I don’t and my horizons have definitely broadened.

I also feel like a “useful” person.

Networking in my “new” industry, is actually networking – everyone is helping everyone else out – which is a great feeling!

9. What advice would you give to other people who want to do something similar?

If you can afford to do it – do it.

Even if it doesn’t work out, at least you tried and who knows what doors it will open.

My major fear was not doing it and then regretting it.

10. What resources did you find really useful?

I read a book a few years ago which while on a different (and much more socially useful) topic, sowed a seed in my mind “Leaving Microsoft to change the world” by John Wood

In terms of moving into the field I’m now in (tech and social media), I’m fortunate that there are lots of people out there trying lots of things and talking about it on the internet (www.techcrunch.com is a good place to start) which helps!

11. What else?

The most inspirational quote I’ve heard in the last year…

“If you’re not failing, you’re not taking enough risks” – and who wants to lead a risk free life?!

Some pieces of advice I’ve also had:

Think about where you want to be in 5 years time – does this help to get you there?
What will your exit route be if it doesn’t work out?
Will the environment suit you – it’s more important than you think. (I went from a large, buzzing office where the phone constantly rang, to working in a very small environment which was very quiet –which was a massive adjustment)

Esc Hero #18: “From Financial Analyst to Fishing Captain to Nicaraguan renewable energy”

Team Esc — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:54:52 +0000

1. What are you currently doing?

My name is Brett Veerhusen. Besides avoiding the stray dogs, out of control taxis and sweltering heat, I am the Controller for blueEnergy Group.

blueEnergy is an international renewable energy NGO based in Bluefields, Niaragua, which happens to be one of the poorest parts of the country. We install and capacitate rural communities along the Caribbean Coast with wind turbines, solar and water filtration systems.

Additionally, Nicaragua boasts the title of second most impoverished country behind Haiti, so one can imagine how desperate the situation is. As the Controller I manage a small local accounting team in a bilingual office. I manage all financial transactions of blueEnergy and hold a focus on our microfinance projects with Kiva and our local microfinance institution (MFI).

2. What did you do before this?

During my very short heyday in the corporate world, I worked as an Analyst for a finance company based in Seattle, WA. I was a former intern and took a job offer in my senior year, thinking I had the world in the palm of my hand with a fancy office and comfortable paycheck.

I don’t discount the work of my former employer because there are many great people who enjoy what they do. What is relevant is that the company and my position was not a good fit for me as an individual.

3. How long have you dreamt of doing what you are doing now?

If someone were to have told me a year ago that I would be living in Nicaragua, acting as the Controller for a renewable energy NGO and not getting paid, I would have choked on my tie. However, after I spent three weeks in Argentina during the holidays backpacking around Patagonia, I knew I needed to break free.

I began dreaming up perfect scenarios of giving back to the world while gaining a valuable education in renewable energy and microfinance. Low and behold, here I am, living that exact dream.

4. What inspired you to do it?

Almost immediately after I began my career, Lehman Brothers collapsed and so began the financial meltdown. The mood within the office began to worsen, and I gained a new view from my desk as piles of employees were let go. I stared at an empty floor.

We found out about the second round of layoffs through an online finance blog and no official word was ever mentioned beforehand from any executives. I was tired of living in fear and being surrounded by such negative energy. When you put 20 people in an office who all are worried about their jobs and their futures, even without any word being voiced, a chill of darkness shrouds the atmosphere.

All employees are great people, and I had a hard time stomaching our dismal moods. I gave my resignation four hours after the second round of layoffs occurred. If they were going to make adjustments, they may as well account for one more.

The backend of my resignation is that I was presented with an opportunity to fish commercially with my father and take over as captain when he needed to leave. Before college, I spent every summer with my father commercial fishing along the Alaskan Peninsula.

I welcomed the opportunity to challenge myself to captain a boat and perhaps make a good sum of money while doing so. I figured that the financial prospects would allow me to pursue volunteer options abroad.

Before leaving in June to Alaska, I applied to blueEnergy and Kiva and accepted blueEnergy’s offer in July. I had two weeks after the fishing season to prepare myself to live in Nicaragua for eight months. My dream very quickly became reality.

5. From a practical perspective, how did you plan for it?

At first, I found the search extraordinarily daunting when trying to narrow the best opportunities abroad. I began to ask myself “in a perfect world, what do I want to be doing?”

Once I narrowed down that rather daunting question (daunting is a theme when making such a drastic change) I then focused on a geographic location. That helped narrow down the field and allowed me to hone in on my Internet research.

I kept a spreadsheet (very Analyst of me) of the multiple opportunities and the specifics about each. I recommend people first ask themselves what sounds fun. If you are having fun with our current job, I doubt you would be reading my story. Start with fun and begin narrowing your search. For some strange reason, part of what I believe is fun is challenging myself to accomplish goals that I would never have thought possible. I think I found my match!

6. How are you funding it?

If you are interested in volunteering, don’t be surprised if organizations ask for a pledge or donation, especially if you are looking at a period less than six months. In reality, the organization has to put forth a great amount of energy to get new short-term volunteers on board and train them.

I pay a futile amount to blueEnergy to cover my room and board, albeit I am still getting a good deal because my small donation doesn’t cover all monthly costs. If you choose somewhere that is inexpensive like Nicaragua, know that your money will go very far.

I am spending pennies on the dollar compared to what I would be spending in Seattle. I recommend doing your own personal fundraising and create a basic webpage through many individual donation sites and explain what you are embarking on.

Sign up for a marathon or another event. Running was the best form of mediation while clearing my head and it serves as an excellent catalyst to challenge yourself before leaving the country. It will give you loads of confidence and also an excellent channel to fundraise.

7. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

Leaving my friends and life behind. I believe this is true for most people who leave for a long period. Know that when you return home, you will have tremendously changed, while your previous life is almost the same.

8. What has been the best thing about having made this happen?

The best thing about my experience is feeling alive and free again. I’ve gained self-confidence by captaining a boat in Alaska and living in Nicaragua. Instead of feeling trapped and defeated, I feel enthusiastic and confident.

9. What is the best advice you have received?

I looked to a few mentors for advice when making the change.

One of them is a wonderful lady I met who works for Kiva. She told me her story about the banking world and the switch to microfinance. She encouraged me to tackle all the craziest experiences I could concoct and get out into the field.

My parents gave me all types of advice (of course) but they encouraged me to follow my dreams, as cheesy as that sounds.

Finally, my former university advisor never ceases to support my decisions and offer sage advice. This person has lived through their own doubts and whirlwind adventures and ingrained in my head the message:

“Do what you love.”

10. What advice would you give to other people?

Do what you know. Do what you want to know. Do what you love.

11. What resources have you found really useful?

Books:

Green Volunteers by Fabio Ausenda

The Eden Project: In search of the magical other by James Hollis

The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay

Websites:

www.idealist.org

http://www.kiva.org/about/fellows-program

www.blueenergygroup.org

Events:

Get involved in social events that attract similar minds in what you are interested. In Seattle, I attended Green Drinks, where sustainably conscious people gather and learn about their work. Also, I attended our local microfinance-networking group. I met a lot of great people at these events.

Videos:

This is one of the most inspirational speeches I’ve ever heard:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1R-jKKp3NA

12. What else?

This relates back to my simple advice I gave for those interested in doing something similar.

When my dad asked me to go back fishing, after leaving the industry for five years, I was a little hesitant. Here I was, a college graduate going back to fish. When I stopped fishing at 18 years old, I held a lot of angst to the industry because while everyone else was at soccer camp, I was stuck in the Bering Sea on a fishing boat.

However, when I returned to Alaska I realized that I had a new passion and love for the fisheries. I grew up with it, and therefore knew the ins and outs. I accepted new challenges within the business.

I firmly believe that we often shy away from what our parents do, simply because it is what our parents do. Yet, we’ve grown up within these industries our whole lives and inevitably developed a remarkable knowledge bank. Don’t be afraid to go back and do what you know.

One of the best motivating factors when you make the change is listening to your peers boast how amazing your new challenge is. Look to your peers for motivation and avoid those who always see the glass half empty. It is easy to get bogged down by those who point out all the “negative” attributes of what you are giving up.

Don’t listen to them.

If you are pursuing something that interests you and you believe is fun, go for it. Know that when you are surviving in a new environment, you can look back at the naysayers with a smile. Buy experiences and not possessions.

Here a few inspirational quotes that I still say to myself on a regular basis:

“Dream Aggressively”

-blueEnergy Group

“Uncertainty and mystery are energies of life. Don’t let them scare you unduly, for they keep boredom at bay and spark creativity.” R.I. Fitzhenry

Esc Hero #16: My new job at Spotify: “I get out of bed with a bounce”

Team Esc — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:16:15 +0000

1. What’s up?

My name is Aggie Jones and I recently got a job in a creative role in the advertising department of Spotify, the music streaming service.

2. What did you do before?

I worked as an Account Executive for a large marketing communications agency working on one account and acting as a go-between between the creative team in the agency and the client.

3. How long have you dreamt of doing this?

I realized relatively soon after the beginning of my tenure that my former job was not for me! While it gave me some great insights into the media world and some experience in account management, I stayed there purely for these learnings and to build up my CV.

4. When did you realise you would make the change?

Work began to seep into my personal life & I found it harder and harder to get a happy work-life balance. I knew that my role was about to change significantly due to an internal re-shuffle and rather than be excited by this prospect I felt nothing but dread, as what they would deem a ‘promotion’ actually meant 12-hour-days of doing a job that wasn’t for me! At this point I knew it was time to start applying for other roles.

So I found a company that I respected, one which really excited & inspired me, looked on their website and learned that they were only hiring for a job unsuited to my experience level. I wrote them an email saying that although I didn’t have the relevant experience for the role they were looking to fill, they simply must invite me in so that I could persuade them that I am the sort of person they would want working for them.

They did, I was, and very fortunately they created a role for me!

5. From a practical perspective, how did you plan for it?

I realized that I wanted to make a move into the digital world and to take on some creative responsibility. I did some research online & I asked a few friends who worked in media for advice on companies who may be hiring in the digital sphere. I also thought about which companies I would want to approach speculatively. In terms of interview prep I did a lot of research into Spotify & the market they were playing in

6. What about the money side of things?

Although I have taken a pay cut in order to Esc, I am just about able to survive off the new salary. Homemade lunches, limited booze, all the usuals!

7. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

The waiting. Waiting to hear back on the application I put forward; waiting to hear back on whether I’d been offered the job. It’s the not knowing which I found the most difficult.

Interviewing is pretty horrific too! Especially when you have one which doesn’t go as you’d hoped. There will always be questions which totally bamboozle you, partly because of the nerves!

Also, summoning the energy to get out of a well-established rut was a challenge!

8. What has been the best thing about having made this happen?

I get out of bed with a bounce. It makes such a huge difference working for a company you truly believe in & doing a job which is intellectually challenging. It feels good to know my career is now on a path I’m happy with.

9. What advice would you give to other people?

Chase, chase, chase. If you really want a job you should do all you can to get it. Try any method you can think of. So I would definitely advise persistence & positivity.

10. What resources have you found really useful?

To be honest I think the job sites out there are pretty useless. I applied for company I had heard of and found interesting, rather than using job sites.

This is why perhaps Escape the City could be the answer!

Esc Hero #15: “Identifying what I love doing and having the confidence to do it.”

Team Esc — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:44:24 +0000

A quick into by Rob (Cousins):

Rob Cousins somehow managed to combine an office job with mountaineering trips, arctic expeditions, smuggling classic cars out of a failed African state, ultra distance marathons and triathlons, and building dry stone walls in North Wales.

It is amazing how many years it has taken Rob to find the courage to work full time at things he loves, rather than returning each time to the office job he doesn’t.

1. What are you currently doing?

I’m totally engrossed in doing things I love, in the way I want to do them. And I don’t have to write a report on it, monitor it, find key objectives that suit someone else’s opinion…..

In February 2010 my next real adventure begins. After a couple of months off to spend time with my new family, my wife and I are traveling to Nepal to work for a year or so. I have three main jobs in the pipeline…..

Training the Nepali long distance running team
Writing race reviews for Nepali and Himalayan marathons
Teaching orphaned vultures to fly

2. What did you do before?

I’ve worked in commercial insurance for 7 years, doing a variety of roles. I was very good at it, and thought very highly of. I’ve done very well for myself.

A few years ago I left for about a year, where I experimented with doing the things I loved, but it didn’t work out and I ended up full time in my old job. At least I was earning good money at something I could do.

Looking back on that experience I now see where I went wrong, and I do see it as a valuable experience. Maybe going back to my old job was the wrong thing to do, but I don’t regret that – back then I didn’t know what I know now..…

3. How long have you dreamt of doing what you are doing now?

I’ve wanted to do something different for years, I just hadn’t been able to figure out exactly what that ‘thing’ is. I was very nervous of dropping a decent job for something that may just have been a whim and lead nowhere.

I spent my first few years at work rebelling a bit – flying in on Monday morning from trips to the Alps, running to work (it was 13 miles door to door…), and so on. But these were jollies, and weren’t building a set of skills to use to change career.

My year off was great for really indulging in these interests, and I did a huge amount in that time (loads of independent travel, climbing, rebuilding my Morris). Whilst I had a great time, it didn’t last, and I ran out of money. Since then, maybe the last three years, I’ve wondered how to make that lifestyle sustainable.

Rather than thinking about what job title I wanted (like ‘physiotherapist’), I’ve been thinking about what sort of activities I want to be involved in. That has meant desperately searching how to use my skills and experience in the fields I enjoy. And it has felt desperate at times.

4. What inspired you to do it?

Yet another year had gone by, I was still unhappy, and my prospects seemed just as unfulfilling as every other time I’d looked at them. I was simply fed up of feeling like that. Did I want my life to be a collection of distant dreams, or a collection of wonderful memories?

5. From a practical perspective, how did you plan for it?

Put simply, I needed develop and practice the skills that I enjoyed using. For me, I realized that I know loads about physiology, anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition and psychological development. I could piece all these things together in a very special way that had a real and deep impact on the people that asked for my advice. I hadn’t realized that there was an entire industry out there devoted to this, and that I’d fit into it very well.

I simply needed to ensure that my qualifications were legitimate. I then needed to know what my skills were worth, and where I could use them.

I still don’t know whether I know enough (can you really ever know enough?), but I’m sure I know enough to begin and do well.

6. How are you funding it?

Big mortgage, our first child just having entered the world, credit crunch…. Isn’t this totally the wrong time to do this?

Maybe.

But I’ve reflected that city folk always think that other people are better off, and so feel poorer than they actually are.

In fact, compared to the vast majority of the world we all live in luxury. Taking that perspective has made money worries less of a concern. I suppose if we have to, we’ll sell the house. But worse things could happen.

But still, there’s a mortgage to pay. So while we’re away in Nepal, a friend will rent our house from us and that’ll cover those costs.

Simple really.

Our flights and living costs will be covered by various charities we’ll be working for, and from various fundraising activities we’re organized (dog shows, endurance sport events. There’ll be a bit of money from our savings to pay for travel insurance, vaccinations and so on. But really, we’re been surprised at how little this is costing. I think it’s more our ‘future earnings’ that are changing. They’re just becoming less certain than a monthly salary.

In many ways life for us will get a lot cheaper – no expensive season ticket, all that sandwich and coffee money, all the little presents and gadgets to make us feel better. Won’t need anywhere near as much money for those things anymore. Nepal is dead cheap to live in.

I’ve studied health and fitness in my own time at my own cost. I’ve loved learning it, so have been happy to part with the cash. Paying for them myself has also challenged me to use the qualifications too, to make sure they pay for themselves. Writing magazine articles and doing endurance events means I have negotiated discounts through sponsorship which has saved me some money. That has involved using negotiation skills I learnt at work.

7. What was the hardest thing about making this happen?

Believing in myself. Believing I can make this happen.

8. What has been the best thing about having made this happen?

I read this question and I can’t help but smile. For me there is no ‘best’ thing. Instead there is a collection of sad things about the world I’m leaving behind, and exciting things (with a dash of anxiety) about what’s coming next in my life.

Some of the things that come to mind are…

Feeling the weight of responsibility at work lifted. When silly office politics happens, I no longer have to care.
A week or so ago, I spent 3 hours training with a client. I came home tired and exhausted. But elated. This was a new combination of feelings. I went to sleep that night happy, deeply happy having made a difference to someone’s life and goals. I had no feelings of things I wish I’d done that day. I’d really earned my sleep.
Knowing that whatever I do in the future will be about what is important to me. If I have a dream, no matter how big or small, I can work towards it and make it happen.
Now I’m moving into doing something I love, my attitude is more positive and what I value is changing. In a really healthy way. After all the help from my wife and friends, I feel I enjoy a better relationship with the people I know and love.

9. What advice would you give to other people who want to do something similar?

For me it has been identifying what I love doing. Then having the confidence to do it.

Try lots of things, different things, maybe even unusual things for you.

Really reflect on how you felt about it, what you liked, what you didn’t.

Surround yourself with like-minded people, or people that work in that field. You’ll never be inspired if you only talk to people in the office about officey things. Talk to them about you, what you like doing, what you’re interested in. See where those conversations go, and what you learn about yourself and what you’re good at.

Be speculative and persistent. The worst that can happen is to get no reply.

Once you have found something, even if it just feels like a good idea, believe in it and yourself.

See what you can grow it into. And be bold when it comes to the all important moment.

10. What resources have you found really useful?

My friends and my wife. Their help, advice and perspectives have been invaluable, and I doubt they know quite how much.

For health & fitness, I’ve built a network of people I trust, who inform and challenge me on what I can do, what I know, what I need to learn.

My professional training has largely come from….

www.chekinstitute.com

www.metabolictyping.co.uk

My wife has shown me what can be done when you commit yourself to an industry that you love. And when you push your skills, how it can change your life, your perspective, and open up a world of opportunity. Seeing how she’s used her skills to carve out a role for herself has been a real inspiration to me.

www.k9playtime.co.uk

www.hartnepal.org

www.scadbangkok.org

My friend Tim has also been very helpful too, in ways I don’t think he realizes.

www.thenextchallenge.org

11. What else?

The most significant thing I have done is to challenge what I understand by the words ‘success’ and ‘achievement’.

Rather than think of the criteria that society or other people judge these by, I’ve created my own understanding of these terms, and I now using this as a guide for what I get involved in.

I am so much happier, less frustrated, and feel like my life has a real direction. In many ways it is frightening, but I always come back to the fact that my values are now driving my life.