First Jobs

Last week Oprah had celebrities Paula Deen (who I love), Randy Jackson and Brooke Burke talk about their first jobs. Sometimes it's hard to imagine celebrities ever working at McDonalds or your local Wal-Mart. The point is everyone starts somewhere. My first job was at Kmart. I worked in the home center department of all places and had to wear a red vest every day. Not what I call glamourous. Paula Deen used to be a bank teller, Randy Jackson bagged groceries, and Brooke Burke worked at a pretzel store. Randy Jackson talked about how working hard at an early age gave him a sense of appreciation and helped carry him through to this day. Randy also talked about the importance of treating people how you want to be treated. Some people that I know who are very successful didn't necessarily dream of the job they are in, but were always hard workers and people noticed that. Opportunities will sometimes arise just because people like you and know you have a good work ethic. Suze Orman once said, "If you make average great your dreams will become a reality." She talked about practicing gratitude and serving others with a smile. That can be difficult to do sometimes, especially if your only making $5 an hour. I have been on the receiving end of those who don't like their job, and it would make everyone happier if they worked somewhere else.

A few weeks ago Oprah also featured people who are doing their dream jobs. Jenna Lyons, Creative Director for J Crew, had this to say about the key to success. "Do what you love and find a way to get paid for it. Give 110%." Paula Deen's advice for people who are wanting to achieve a dream for themselves was "there's no sin in failing, the sin is in never trying." My son will be old enough to get a job next year and these are some good messages to pass along. It doesn't matter if your applying for your first job or trying to achieve your dream job, the point is to work hard. Stunt woman, Angela Meryl said, "follow your passion and you'll never work a day in your life."