Don't Give Up on Your Journey: Embracing the Hustle
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Chapter 1: Navigating Financial Challenges
As a budding acupuncturist, I face financial hurdles that weigh heavily on my heart. Despite my dedication to my craft and the joy I derive from witnessing my patients' progress, my bank account tells a different story. My aspirations are lofty, with dreams of travel, retirement, and personal growth. Yet, the reality of earning minimum wage while grappling with significant student debt can be daunting.
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While I believe I could find fulfillment in various careers, my persistent curiosity often leads me to explore high-earning, low-barrier job options. One career that frequently resurfaces in my thoughts is that of a police officer—a childhood dream fueled by the desire to help others.
Reality of Law Enforcement
During my undergraduate studies in sociology, I had the privilege of taking a fascinating course titled "Sociology of Policing," taught by a retired police sergeant. This class offered invaluable insights as the instructor shared his experiences and invited current officers to discuss their roles. I even participated in a night ride-along, which provided a rare glimpse into policing in a relatively quiet area.
Through this experience, I gained a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding police work and the potential risks involved, both physically and emotionally. As I weigh the financial benefits of transitioning from acupuncture for a few years, I am reminded of the challenges and responsibilities inherent in such a role.
Additionally, I reflect on the social dynamics of policing, particularly in Oakland, California, where public sentiment toward law enforcement can be quite negative. The profession has a troubled history, often intertwined with systemic racism and bias. For those interested, I highly recommend reading "The New Jim Crow," which offers profound insights into the realities of policing in the United States.
So, the pressing question remains: Is a salary of $150,000 worth the associated dangers and the moral implications of contributing to an institution with such a fraught history, especially as a white male in a predominantly black community? Initially, the allure of a substantial salary seemed tempting. However, upon further reflection, the risks and ethical considerations overshadowed the financial incentive.
Chapter 2: Rising from Despair
Have you ever found solace in a book during a challenging time, where the words seem to resonate deeply and pull you from despair? That was my experience this week. I transitioned from feeling hopeless and contemplating leaving my field to adopting a mindset of perseverance, thanks to the wisdom found in "Atomic Habits" by James Clear and "Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill.
In a moment of distress about my career, I encountered Clear's concept of the "Valley of Disappointment":
> "We often expect progress to be linear. At the very least, we hope it will come quickly. The results of our efforts are often delayed. It is not until months or years later that we realize the true value of the previous work we have done. This can result in a 'valley of disappointment' where people feel discouraged after putting in weeks or months of hard work without experiencing any results. However, this work was not wasted. It was simply being stored. It is not until much later that the full value of previous efforts is revealed." (pg. 22)
The first passage I read from "Think and Grow Rich" that day struck a chord:
> "We see men who have accumulated great fortunes, but we often recognize only their triumph, overlooking the temporary defeats which they had to surmount before arriving…A quitter never wins — And a winner never quits." (Pg. 75)
This perspective aligns with insights from Pat Flynn, the host of Smart Passive Income, who often discusses the hidden struggles behind perceived overnight successes.
In my own "Valley of Disappointment," I began to seek a more promising path. While I believe I am on a favorable trajectory, I am not yet where I aspire to be. The tension between my current situation and my goals drives me forward.
In the long run, I realize that honing my skills, attracting patients to my practice, and diversifying my income streams is the journey that resonates with my values. Abandoning my current path for a few years of financial gain would only postpone the work I need to confront today.
It's possible that this inclination to seek an easier route stems from a sense of laziness or the "grass is always greener" mentality. However, now is not the time to abandon the hard work of building my own life in favor of another's career.
Conclusion
I am committed to my journey. I appreciate any support, whether it's a clap (x100), a comment sharing what inspires you to pursue your dreams, or a simple coffee donation. Every bit helps!
Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts,
Emery
In the video "DON'T Bail Out... 'Now's When It Gets GOOD'," the speaker discusses the importance of staying committed during tough times and emphasizes the notion that perseverance leads to eventual success.
The video titled "Fail, Don't Bail" highlights the value of embracing failure as a stepping stone toward growth and success in one's career.