Changing careers is difficult. Now I’m not talking about changing jobs within your established field. I’m talking about doing something completely different – starting over in a totally new profession. I’m in my late 30’s and in a position of having to prove myself. I am had to let go of such perks as a title, a parking spot, an office with a real door, a staff, an expense account, and a secretary. Without question, this journey has not been without sacrifice.

However, this job has provided some unexpected benefits. It’s fun being a part of team rather than leading a team. It’s exciting to be in a new environment. Although there are politics in every job – at least it’s NEW politics with NEW issues and NEW people. It’s exhilarating (albeit terrifying) being on live television and talking about issues that you care about. However, bottom line, the most profound benefit of this job is the opportunity to focus, really focus on my kids.

You see, the nature of what I do as a parenting contributor involves paying attention to my children. I am constantly experimenting with new content within my built-in lab at home. Like a scientist, my kids serve as little mice that I observe in their natural environment. They supply me with the inspiration for everything I do. This is dramatically different from my previous vocation. The nature of my job combined with the nature of my personality kept me always distracted and, in many ways, emotionally unavailable to my children.

Last night, I found myself at the park with my youngest. We sat in the sand pile making rivers out of sandy grooves and boats out of tiny leaves. I listened intently to his words, paying attention to this moment knowing that I would likely be writing about it. I was present and not preoccupied with the worries of tomorrow.

Yes, changing jobs has been difficult. However, the rewards have already outweighed the sacrifices. Hands down, focused time with my children beats a parking spot any day.