When Business Opens Unexpected Doors
By Sue Moore
Who knew that a career in business could lead to something that fills my heart with absolute joy?
When we talk about business, we usually talk about growth, value and results. We talk far less about the friendships, skills and opportunities that build up quietly along the way. Sometimes those turn out to matter just as much.
Where it began
Twenty-five years ago this year, I accepted a role with a recruitment company. It was a fabulous, dynamic sales team. It was a great job, and it was great fun.
As with so many of the businesses I've worked with since, friendships grew there, and they've lasted.
A request that took my breath away
Around five years ago, a former colleague, who is now my best friend, and his beautiful wife asked me to be the Wedding Celebrant at their daughter's wedding.
The trust they placed in me took my breath away. I was absolutely honoured, and it was a wonderful day.
Fast forward five years to last month, and a beautiful wedding in Spain, where the bride and groom invited me to be their Master of Ceremonies. I was over the moon.
Since that first wedding, I've helped a number of very special couples plan and celebrate their big day, and I've gone on to qualify as a celebrant. Playing a small part in someone's special day has been an unexpected joy.
A natural next step
In many ways, becoming a celebrant and Master of Ceremonies felt like a natural step.
I've spent much of my career speaking at events, presenting at conferences, bringing people together and building trusted relationships. Those are exactly the skills a celebrant relies on.
But there is one big difference. With celebrancy, you only get one chance to get it right. Delivering a couple's very special day brings a great sense of responsibility, and I take that seriously every time.
To say I love it would be an understatement. It absolutely fills my heart with joy.
The passions that find us along the way
Sometimes the skills and relationships we build through business open doors to passions we never imagined. They aren't always the ones we go looking for. Often, they're the ones that find us along the way.
So I'm curious. How has your business or career helped you discover another passion?
Has it inspired you to start a completely different business, or to try something new?
I'd love to hear your story.