As I approach my two year mark at my current job, I can’t help but think about my previous one and how coming here meant taking a huge pay cut. At the time, it felt like a loss. I wasn’t sure I was making the right decision, but looking back, I see how every step was leading me exactly where I needed to be.
As a single mom of two, taking a pay cut is never easy. I fought with myself often about the decision I made and whether it was the right one. For many months, I questioned that choice. Then I was reminded of what I was gaining.
Yes, I was losing a few dollars, but it was nothing compared to what I’ve gained over these past two years.
For four years, I drove an hour and a half one way to work. I rushed home trying to make it to my kids’ practices, games, and whatever else they had going on. On top of that came dinner duty, school responsibilities, and still having to bring work home with me. It not only took a toll on me, but on the way I showed up for my kids, which ultimately took a toll on them too.
Now I’m in a position where my work no longer follows me home. My days have more balance, and my energy is no longer spent before I even walk through the door. I’m more attentive to my children. I’m not tired or burnt out. I’m able to show up as my best self not only for me, but for everyone around me. And no amount of money can ever compete with this kind of peace.
Last year, I watched a TikTok where a woman talked about how intentional God is, how there is always a reason for why you are somewhere, in the position you are in.
When I look back, every job I’ve ever had was preparing me for where I am now and where I am going. I started working in a daycare at 18. From there, I moved into management, then into a supervisory role in customer service. I have always worked either in early childhood education, close to families, or in customer service, building strong communication skills.
Now, in my current position, I work in human resources for my school district, which allows me to see the ins and outs of many departments, including communications, school safety, and community relations. This experience has been invaluable in shaping the way I communicate, problem-solve, and assist families. On top of that, I am also interning at a law office, gaining hands-on exposure to legal processes and client support. Together, these experiences are preparing me for my journey toward family law. As I work toward becoming a family attorney, I see how every role I’ve held has equipped me to advocate for families with empathy, understanding, and real-world insight.
So yes, I took a pay cut and sometimes I felt it. But I gained emotional freedom, peace, and a deeper understanding of how God works. I see now that nothing was random. Every step, every job, and every sacrifice has been setting me up for the future I am walking into.
So if you ever find yourself doubting where you are and the choices you’ve made, don’t focus on the losses. Instead, focus on your gains and how every choice and decision is shaping you for your future.
Love ya, BYE
Tee Talk 