I’m not seriously looking for work right now. I’m taking time out to study and live on my own terms, after many years of giving too many waking hours to work and an employer. It’s kind of scary to be knocking back opportunities at my age and seems really counter-intuitive to be saying no, but it’s what my gut instinct is telling me at the moment (here’s a rational explanation of why we should trust our gut).
A Federal election is looming and I decided to put in an expression of interest for temporary work with the Australian Electoral Commission. The day after I sent off my application I got a phone call offering two weeks of full-time work in the lead up to election day. If it had been part-time hours I would have had no hesitation in accepting, but I couldn’t commit to full-time work, even for such a short duration. I said no.
Second work offer came out of the blue, from my old employer, the hospice. Although I left my job last year, I’ve continued my volunteer role there as company secretary. I’ve been recording my volunteer hours and this has been useful in keeping a lid on the amount of time and energy I divert toward the hospice. Whilst the offer of paid contract work was tempting I knew that it would not be the end and I would be increasingly drawn into hospice business again – and it would be deeply dissatisfying in an external role, where I would have very little influence or control. So I declined the offer, while reiterating my willingness to continue as a volunteer.
As a volunteer I retain control over my own time and the tasks I am willing to do, which is a far better arrangement for me right now.