why i wanted to work in retail

This New York Times article by Caitlin Kelly really hit home with me. In fact, I could have written the first two paragraphs.

SOMETHING had to change. Working alone at home as a freelance writer, which many people dream of, wasn’t working for me. The relentless isolation of connecting primarily with others online and by telephone was killing me.

I needed a steady, secure, part-time job, something I could leave behind at day’s end, with lots of people contact. I craved a new challenge, a chance to learn and perfect some fresh, useful skills.

I had similar reasons for wanting to work at the boutique in the Old Market. First, I needed to get out of my house a couple of hours a week, to socialize with other people. Second, I was looking forward to making a couple of extra bucks each month (freelance blogging on a semi-regular basis doesn’t equal a steady income). Finally, I was hoping to learn the nuts and bolts of running a small business.

So far, so good. I’ve really enjoyed the time I’ve spent in the store. However, the worrier in me sometimes fears that my friends and family who work for high-profile communication agencies or fancy law firms or as medical professionals will judge me for working in retail. Then I remember that a) it shouldn’t matter what other people think and b) I’m doing what’s best for me right now. As a freelance writer, I love being able to flex my creative muscles. Working at the boutique, I get to be part of the fashion world even though I live in Omaha, and, in time, I know I’ll improve my customer relation skills and gain practical business experience.

I don’t know about you, but I think it’s a pretty good plan.

(image source: Design*Sponge’s Omaha guide)