A couple of weeks ago a previous colleague, who is also a friend, emailed me about a job opportunity in her area. In this email, she wrote that her manager was describing a new position in their organization and wondered if she might know anyone that would be a good fit. She wrote that she immediately thought of me and told her manager that I'd be perfect for the job.

The old me would have replied, "tell me more!" without even thinking about it.

I was extremely flattered, but I wasn't even remotely interested. I absolutely love what I do, so why even tempt myself with the unknown? I wrote back to her, thanking her for thinking of me, and added that I wasn't even tempted because I love my job. We then set up lunch plans for today because it's been a while since we've been able to get together.

Today, during lunch, I asked her if she was surprised at my response. She said that she was, and added that she was even more surprised that I didn't even ask about the job. Then she shared with me what I'd of learned if I showed interest:

1. It would have involved a promotion and pay raise
2. It would have basically included what I do now PLUS I'd be able to some public speaking. I love public speaking so much that I'm hoping to do this for a living after I 'retire'.
3. I would have been able to continue telecommuting at least three days a week.
4. I still wouldn't have to manage a staff of employees (I gave that up two years ago and have never looked back.)

Did I make the right decision in not inquiring further? I still believe that I did.

My decision was based on the fact that I feel truly happy and fulfilled in my current job. If I am able to keep this job until I retire in 10 years, I'd be thrilled. I'm happy with my salary and I really like my manager. I also adore my clients. How many times do people hear "I really and truly love you" (heard today!) or "You are my favorite person in this company" from their clients? I get to hear that sort of thing regularly. And I feel the same way about them. That's why I take such good care of them.

The only thing that causes me any strife in my job is the snake. But, I can deal with that. He behaves himself, for the most part, after I smack him down a bit.

I'm reading a book right now, The Unmistakable Touch of Grace (Cheryl Richardson). I highly recommend it. This book speaks volumes about my beliefs and I think that reading it has really reinforced my belief that there is a reason for everything. I believe my gut instinct of "I'm just not interested" had a purpose. I'm not exactly sure of that purpose right now, but I know that eventually I'll understand.

The bottom line is that I'm really glad that I have faith in myself and faith in my decisions. I've been blessed in my life with the gift of discernment and I've never gone down the wrong path when I've listened.

The important part of that sentence? 'when I've listened'

I'm listening.