It’s become cliché to think of life as a series of chapters. We see it everywhere…people change careers, move, have children, become empty nesters.
But such metaphors become cliché for a reason - they speak to a universally relatable truth. Because I love books, this one always feels comfortable. I don’t mind leaning into it - it doesn’t feel tired to me. We turn the page of our life’s book, closing one chapter and beginning another.
I’ve just completed an unexpectedly short chapter. In the span of an entire career, even my career thus far, three months is a quick read.
But here’s what I think about short chapters both in books and in life:
They serve an important purpose, offering readers a quick interlude, a transition between parts. In writing, short chapters, just like short sentences, can break up longer sections and offer a necessary punchiness to keep readers interested.
Today I complete this short career chapter, and as I reflect on its contents, I see that it served an important purpose. While I didn’t expect it to be so short when I started, I see now that it was just the right length - just the right amount of content for me to learn more about my skills, strengths, challenges and needs. These insights will prepare me for what comes next.
Here’s the catch…where the chapter metaphor breaks down is when we consider life in real time. The next chapter, the rest of the book is still blank. It’s for me to figure out, live and then reflect on as I go.
So…off I go in search of how to fill it.
I love the idea of having blank pages before you. So many opportunities and options! I admire your consistent dedication to pursuing life in an intentional and curious way. Best wishes on the next chapter!! I have a feeling it will be amazing.
Short chapters are often just right! I am planning some blank pages before my next one begins. :-)