Back To Work Bootcamp: Introduction To The Class

“We Are Not Strangers, Only The Introduction Is Missing.”

Jesus Apolinaris

It Was All New

As I waited patiently to introduce myself to the class, my heart started to race. I had no clue that I would be in front of the 35 or so people who were my classmates and mentors. Why was I freaking out inside? It is only an introduction…

Introduction

I only had to give a brief introduction to my classmates and mentors. What was I going to tell these people about me? Luckily, we had a cheat sheet of questions to answer.
What were our names?
Where are we from? (This was not an easy answer since we are all associated with the military.)
What is our line of work, or highest grade of education?
How are we affiliated with the military?
And last, What do we plan to get from this class?

It was finally my turn and as I headed up to the podium and mic, the words from my mouth were, “I am not a great public speaker.” Already from the top, I was doubting myself.

I headed into my speech. My voice was shaking, and I was trying to look at the audience. I had not found the one friend I knew I needed as an anchor, so I looked around everywhere. I found it hard to breathe and talk at the same time. What an introduction to my new classmates and mentors!

“My name is Lajeana.”
“I am from Lafayette, Indiana. Raised in Virginia, and currently living in Illinois.”
“Currently, I am a homemaker, however, I am starting my career since my children are older and will not need me in a few years when they fly the nest. I need to find my path before they leave so I am not lost when they do.” I could see some of the women nodding in agreement. That made me feel calmer.
“I am a military spouse of 21 years.” (Technically 19, however, I have been with him for 21 years so that is what I said.)
“Last, I am here for self-fulfillment. As I had said, I am looking to create my own path before my children start theirs without me.”

Calm Moments Of Clarity

There! It was over, and now I guess was the time for thoughts to come rushing through my head as I started to calm down. I should have told them about my blog. That is a job! It takes time, effort, and a passion to write and share. I may not make money from it, but not all jobs are created for monetary fulfillment.

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I want to say a special thank you to The Des Plaines Chamber Of Commerce and all of the businesses that partnered with them to make this boot camp a success.

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A Friendly Note: Since this is the first of my series on my Back To Work Bootcamp, I thought I would share my amazing Ginger Shot Recipe. Great for clarity, so I hear. Plus with being with other people, these shots are great for helping my breath stay fresh.