CAREER: PURSUE YOUR PASSION AS A CAREER

Before moving to Leon County with her family, Green worked in newsrooms in Alabama, GA and North Carolina.

Dr. Lori Gonzalez named Senior Policy and Research Analyst with the Data Foundation based out of Washington, DC. In her new position, she leverages her research experience on aging and health policy and on disparities in the criminal and juvenile justice systems to provide subject matter expertise on relevant data policies. Lori Gonzalez moved to Tallahassee from Palm Coast to attend FSU and earned a Ph.D. in Sociology with a focus on juvenile justice. For nearly a decade, Dr. Gonzalez was Research Faculty at the Claude Pepper Center at FSU where she researched policy issues affecting older people and advocated for a better longterm care system.

Laci Swann was recently appointed as Board Member of the Autism Society of Florida, representing the state’s panhandle in fundraising and advocacy efforts. Laci is the Principal of Sharp Editorial, an award-winning editorial + small business consulting + branding design firm. Since 2016, Sharp Editorial has served thousands of clients, including professional athletes, television stars, Fortune 500 companies, and a range of other professionals. Laci is passionate about ensuring that her table always has room for others, encouraging women to pull up a seat and stay awhile. Did the pandemic leave you questioning your current career? If so, you’re not alone. CNBC released a report in October 2021 stating 50% of American workers want to make a career change. So how do we make that change? Let’s talk about a few ways you can begin your journey of making your passion your career.

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PURSUE YOUR PASSION AS A CAREER

By Cristina Carter

SET REALISTIC GOALS Set goals and stick to them. It’s easy to want to reach for the stars. However, try to keep them focused and realistic. You don’t want to get down on yourself if you aren’t as successful as you planned (especially at the beginning).

CHANGE YOUR CURRENT ROUTINE You can talk about setting goals all you want, but if you don’t do anything about reaching them, it’s never going to happen. Take a moment to write down your goals and what it would take to get them. Set your mind to it and don’t let anything get in your way. Things are going to need to change before they can get better. Make the changes.

BE PERSISTENT I don’t know very many business owners who were successful the first time they tried to open their first business. It’s critical to be persistent when going after your goals. You can have as much talent, education, and drive out there. However, if you aren’t persistent, you’ll never reach them.

HAVE FUN Let’s be honest, the pandemic changed the way we look at life. With that new mindset, it's important to embrace the little things and have fun with your new positive and healthy lifestyle. I know taking the first step isn’t easy but you can do it! There hasn’t been a better time to stop what you’re doing and follow your dreams than now.