Checking In

I have wanted to check in several times over the last week or so, but I just haven’t had time. And that’s a good thing, because the reason I am so busy is that I started a new job last week.

On my first day, I walked into the office and found flowers waiting for me. I have never gotten flowers on my first day of work before. I already had a good feeling about this job, and that made me even more certain that I had made a good move.

I actually interviewed for a different position, but they called me and said they were recommending me for a higher position in management. I was surprised but very honored to be selected for more responsibility (and more pay, which is always nice!)

Yesterday I finished up work, changed clothes, and headed out for a run. It was my first run outside in a long time, and I wish I could say it was victorious, but it was actually quite humbling and agonizing. From the first step to the last, I felt just how out of shape and overweight I am. I managed 3.5 miles, then called it quits. I will do more strength training, step aerobics to build endurance in my legs, and get some more weight off before I try again.

During my run, a group of runners went by in the opposite direction. They looked like runners: slim, fit, shapely legs, confident strides. They smiled and said hi, and I thought to myself, “I want to be a real runner someday.” Not just shuffling through the motions, barely making it, but back to enjoying running, pushing my body to go further, covering the miles with strength. I was there once. I will get there again.

That’s where I am at these days: a lot of changes, nervous about my new job, wanting to do an awesome job, learning a lot. I am proud of being offered a better position than what I applied for, and it is a lesson to me, maybe, that I am capable of much more than I give myself credit for. Luckily, they saw it for me. Maybe it’s time to start seeing it for myself!