As I sat there looking around, I remember something I do miss about working a traditional job. I miss going out with coworkers after work to grab a drink.
I miss that feeling of unity…bound by a common success or enemy. I miss those times when you just needed a beer to unwind…vent…celebrate.
I realize this may sound ridiculous because I can literally go do that whenever I want now, but the difference is the bond. The difference is having a co-worker or 10 by your side to partake. The difference is the tribe.
Don’t get me wrong. I wouldn’t trade my current life for my old one, but seeing other people doing what I used to look forward to doing…and realizing I miss it was an interesting awakening. It was closely followed by nostalgia for a set schedule…of having a normal weekend…of dressing up for work.
By the time I left, I had pretty much come to the realization that any and all of those things are still within my grasp…just not exactly the same as it was before. I can go out for happy hour if I want. I can set whatever schedule suits me and if a more traditional one is what I want, I have the power to make that happen. I can also put on my “big girl clothes” whenever I like.
So while an old piece of me pined for something I thought I missed, I quickly came to understand that all that and more is available to me now. That I am in complete control of my life and my destiny…and at any point I can change pieces or all of it. That my friends…the people I chose to surround myself with…are my true companions. That, my friends, is the ultimate power.