PERSONAL STORY: Snowshoeing in Vermont
The Momentum Files #43
It’s not so different from career transition.
I was a little awkward and off-balance at first. I eventually found my footing, but it definitely took me a minute to settle into the experience and take in the beauty around me.
Let me back up a bit.
I recently traveled to Vermont with my sister. Our plan was to tour around and visit sugar shacks during the Maple Syrup Festival. You get to see where and how maple syrup is made. It’s not something I’ve ever done, so I was excited about the new experience.
Well, I got more than just one new experience.
The day after we arrived in Vermont, there was a major snowstorm (more than 14” of freshly fallen snow in only 24 hours!)
I’m from Seattle. I don’t really do snow like that. Or freezing cold temperatures. I’d rather be at home not shivering in my tomato garden.
But I do have an adventurous side, so when my sister and I had the opportunity to snowshoe for the very first time, I couldn’t wait to strap in and start moving.
It was so much fun!
But there was definitely an adjustment period. Once I got the hang of things – the tightness of the straps, the slightly unsteady feeling that doesn’t fully go away, the nervousness of doing this new thing (in the freezing cold… did I mention that?) – I had the most amazing experience!
We snowshoed out into the woods – a forest of maple trees blazing in the sunshine and crystal white snow. It was so incredibly beautiful.
Arriving at the sugar shacks, snow crunching under our feet, we took a tour, learned how production happens and taste tested the deliciously sweet syrups.
Once back home and replaying this fun adventure in my mind, I couldn’t help but notice parallels between my experience – a Seattle-based mild-weather loving first-time snowshoer – and what you might be experiencing as a professional navigating a career transition.
It sounds unlikely, but the more I explored it, the more sense it made.
Here’s how the story I’ve just shared with you ties into professional exploration, adaptation, support, growth and embracing the journey.
✅ Exploring the Unknown: Snowshoeing introduced me to a new terrain. As a professional in career transition, you’re stepping into uncharted territory while exploring unfamiliar career paths. Both experiences evoke feelings of excitement, curiosity and perhaps a hint of apprehension about what lies ahead.
✅ Navigating Uncertainty: With those snowshoes strapped to my feet, I was preparing myself for the unexpected – like an icy patch or extra steep slope - requiring the ability to adapt and roll with the punches. That’s not so different from professionals in career transition who face uncertainties such as entering the job market, breaking into a new industry and trying to conquer self-doubt. In either situation, you’re best off remaining flexible and open to the unknown.
✅ Seeking Guidance and Support: Without expert guidance, I’m sure I would have strapped my shoes on the wrong way and fallen over within minutes. If you’re changing up your career path, you might seek guidance and expertise from mentors, career coaches, former colleagues or your networking contacts. Having their support not only provides valuable insights but the encouragement and confidence you need to step in the right direction.
Whether snowshoeing through the maple trees or finding a new and fulfilling career path, embracing each step of the journey contributes to your personal growth and resilience. And it makes arriving at your destination that much sweeter.
When’s the last time you experienced a new adventure? Reply and tell me about it! And if I can help you through a career transition, let’s have a conversation!