My epiphany: “I would be an absolute hypocrite if for the last 9 years I’ve been helping people grow by taking risks and making moves in their career and I didn’t follow the same guidance.”
A Resignation
I’ll spare you the detail but there is a lot that goes through your head when you’re finally sitting across the conference room table from your management ready to change the direction of your professional career. “Do they know it’s coming? They must know, right? I haven’t been myself for quite some time now. They have to know”. I don’t care how cool you feel, how polished or confident you are, your heart is beating fast and nerves are kicking in.
Once I made the decision internally that it’s time to move on from a place that’s helped me grow both professionally and personally, I needed to do something about it. I wasn’t going to procrastinate. I told my family and people in my inner circle which forced me to act on my decision.
I was ready to risk giving up the business, and internal/external relationships made (hoping they were strong enough) so that one day we could reconnect. I’m already a light sleeper but this gave me some sleepless nights.
Regardless, the decision was made and time to move on!
A non-compete
A non-compete, really? I can remember the day I signed it, and can respect why companies require a non-compete. But this was going to take me out of the game for One. Long. Year.
Let me tell you something about my non-compete year, it has been AWESOME! I feel rejuvenated and have clarity. It is hard to describe, but my non-compete has forced me out of my comfort zone. It has given me time to reflect on who I am at 37-years-old. I started my recruiting career at 28 years old and I have changed. A lot!
This last year has given me time to slow down and really appreciate my life. I have had more time to enjoy my wonderful kids (Taj 7 & Zoey 4). My already very supportive wife (Heather) has gone above and beyond for our family over this last year which has been incredible!
The non-compete has also given me time for ME! We are all moving so fast in life and careers that it is hard to slow down and be present. So, if I had to do it all over again, I would sign that non-compete NO DOUBT (It has really been a blessing)!
To be clear, I was not sitting on my butt over this last year…
If you really know me, you know I am very relationship focused. The word transactional does not exist in my world. Real… solid relationships can often open doors and offer opportunities to everyone devoted and involved.
Speaking of relationships, I want to give a shout out to AJ Saigh, Brian Mumford and the people of ProForm for taking me in as I made my transition. They provided an opportunity to briefly join their tight knit group and offer my expertise.
I’d also like to give a shout out to Tyler Lorenzen and the company PURIS. One of the coolest and fastest growing companies in MN. PURIS brought me on as a Project Lead for their recruitment team. The last 9 months working with PURIS has been a game changer and will continue to be huge in the future as the relationship evolves!
Wild times
Kobe Bryant, Covid-19, rioting, national unrest, etc. Do I really need to touch on any of this? I think it all speaks for itself… This last year has been wild.
In conclusion
Don’t ever feel like you don’t have options. Don’t feel like you’re trapped because you have the golden hand cuffs and non-compete. It’s going to be okay. Your network, family and relationships want to help you and they will, trust me!
There are opportunities all around you, but you need to get out of your bubble and look for them. It’s easy to get institutionalized with your company and career but if you feel there is something more out there; you can do something about it! I’m telling you this from my experience, I’ve had no regrets!
With that all said, I love Heather, Taj and Zoey SO much for taking care of me this last year! I love my Mom, Dad, and the rest of my family for just being you and supporting me. Also, nothing but love for my friends and network for all the support and consultative direction.
And finally, to the recruiting world…I’M BACK BABY!
See and talk to you soon,
Amit
