"What is work?"

"Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." -Confucius

So I am just finishing up the first chapter in Dan Miller's book, 48 Days to the Work You Love. This is actually my second time reading through this book. The first time, I actually skimmed through the majority of the book and only delved into the parts that I thought pertained most intimately to me. This time, in hopes of finding that perfect job, I'm going to be better committed to his entire process and start by completing each of the questions at the end of the chapter, "Countdown to Work I Love".

The following are my answers to the questions asked:

1. Yang's Chinese Restaurant was my first place of employment. As a sophomore in high school, I was working each weekend as their take-out bagger and being paid $4.25/hr.

2. Although my positions have been from different industries; from food service, to optical/medical, to IT, to pharmaceutical, to finance, to sales, then automotive, they were all linked by the following traits, very people-oriented, with focus on customer/client service. Of the different positions, my last position, corporate/field recruiter, held the most value or worth to me. I was given the ownership of all recruiting responsibilities for my division, covering training to relationship building with each of the business units and hiring managers.

3. If my job changes, my sense of purpose does not change. I know in all that I do, I do for a greater purpose. There is a purpose in everything. And I have a strong sense of pride in doing a good job, no matter what it is.

4. My current job had been terminated by the company. Company has been known to bring similar positions back, whether it will be there five years from now, time can only tell.

5.Key characteristics of an ideal job/career for me would have to be people-oriented, dynamic, strategic focused, visible, with some level of management/mentoring responsibilities. I enjoy mentoring/training people and seeing levels of growth, whether it be professional or personal, is a great reward. I am seeking a job within a company that fosters my continued growth, professionally and personally, which is really important to me as well. To be in a company that recognizes/rewards it's people for "going the extra mile". Forward thinkers.

6. When I day dream, I see myself taking over the world. On a smaller scale, making a valuable and positive impact on my surroundings, whether it be family or work related. Most importantly, being a positive role model for my children; I must lead by example.

7. The most happiest, most fulfilling moment in my life was when I welcomed my first born into the world and become a mom.

8. If nothing changed in my life within the next 5 years, it would not be ok. I need to find financial security for my family.