The Rollercoaster of Job Hunting

(with a Few Plot Twists)

Well, here we are again. If you’re reading this, you probably know I have now been actively on the job hunt for a few weeks and let’s just say the journey has been... educational (read: full of unexpected detours). If job hunting were an Olympic sport, I’d be somewhere between the “wobbly high dive” and “tripped on the hurdles” categories. But hey, I’m still in the game!

After leaving my last role, I’ve been in this weird mix of excitement and mild existential dread. On the one hand, I’ve got this amazing opportunity to find a role that really sparks my passion, allows me to make an impact, and ideally, gives me a bit of flexibility so I can still spend time with my kids. On the other hand, my first round of applications was met with the kind of silence that made me check my internet

connection. Twice.

Balancing Ambition and Reality

I’ll be honest, after somewhat of a "challenging growth experience" I went through in my last job, my confidence took a bit of a hit. Now, I’m trying to remind myself that one tough chapter doesn’t define my whole story. I’ve got the skills, I’ve got the passion, and, thankfully, I’ve still got a pretty good sense of humor. Right now, it’s just about reminding myself that the right opportunity is out there—and ideally, one that aligns with my values and gives me the space to thrive.

The reality of job hunting is that it’s like dating. Some prospects just ghost you, others seem perfect on paper but have red flags waving in the background, and sometimes, you’re swiping left and right so fast, you forget what you’re even looking for. But I know what I want: something impactful, exciting, and international. And let’s be real, if it could come with a couple of remote days each week, that would be the dream. (Kids + career = the need for serious logistical acrobatics.)

The Housing Plot Twist

Now, as if the job search weren’t enough to keep me busy, life threw a curveball: moving. Yes, we have to vacate our current home in a couple of months, and while my husband has adopted a rather “Zen” approach to this situation (read: he’s kind of ignoring it), I’m feeling the need to take action. But that action might involve putting all of our belongings into storage and living out of suitcases for a bit. Sounds like an adventure, right? (I’m trying to convince myself too.)

There’s also the small matter of selling my apartment in Paris—cue visions of a fabulous new home, where everything is perfectly in place, and my future job is a quick commute away. Of course, that Paris apartment is rented until the end of the year, which puts a slight kink in the plan. So, for now, the fabulous new home might have to wait.

Keeping the Faith (and Some Humor)

At the end of the day, despite the ups and downs, I’m still hopeful. This weird in-between phase is uncomfortable, sure, but it’s also a chance to rethink where I want to go next. I want a role that excites me, a place where I can thrive, and a team I can bond with. And if that place happens to be a hybrid office setup that allows me a couple of days a week to work in my PJs, well, I’ll consider it fate.

There are days when I feel like procrastinating on everything (hello, gaming marathon, my old friend). It’s all too easy to lose track of time in a digital quest while my real-life to-do list is gathering dust. But then I remind myself that the right job is out there. It might take a bit longer than I’d like, but I’m not rushing this next chapter. Plus, if I’ve learned anything from this whole journey, it’s that the right fit is worth waiting for. And maybe the best things really do come to those who wait... as long as they’re actively applying to jobs and not just leveling up their characters!

Stay tuned for more updates—hopefully with some exciting news next time. In the meantime, feel free to send over good vibes, leads, or even your best tips for moving without losing your mind.

Catch you all soon!