“I volunteer as tribute!”

I’ve been on a major Hunger Games hype this week. I’m not sure why – I’ve always considered myself a diehard Pott-head above all else fantastical (a Hatter POTT-er fan for anyone who’s concerned for my welfare). That said I’ve found myself being drawn into the adventures of Katniss Everdeen and her cronies as they storm the Capitol in search of President Snow. It’s been years since I’ve seen the films, and even longer since reading the books but I don’t think I realised how unlikeable Katniss is until this time around. That said, you have to admire her integrity. She stands up for what she believes to be right even though it nearly always results in some sort of trouble. I’ve always found I’m drawn to people who exhibit that quality… those who are fully authentic, who stand up for what they believe regardless of the opinions of the masses.

Watching Katniss bad-ass her way through turmoil has been somewhat appreciated this week however. After weeks of job applications, the interview requests finally started flowing in and I found myself with multiple options to consider. A good position to be in granted… but the STRESS. I have felt mentally burdened the past few days trying to figure out the best move for me, admittedly terrified of making the wrong decision. The thought of balancing work and studies along with a commute and still maintain a healthy routine (which is ultimately the key to my sanity) has been weighing heavy on my mind. That said, I am DELIGHTED to say I’ve made a decision, one which I feel really good about. Although initially feeling like a dear in the headlights, I let my inner Katniss take over and chose to operate in the way that felt right. Rather than string people along and play potential employers off one another, I opted for transparency and authenticity and I was pleasantly surprised with the response. By talking openly, it generated more human conversations with all of the interviewers, helped me think clearly and actually opened more doors by creating connections that I could still lean on in the future.  

I guess it goes to show that even in times of stress, authenticity and vulnerability still have a place. By letting myself be guided by my inner compass I’ve made a decision I can stand over and feel really good about without wondering “what if?” So thanks Everdeen, you might not be crowned Miss Congeniality anytime soon, but your conviction is something to strive for.

R x