Success Stories 

Some SHiFT members have used their experiences in SHiFT programs to create new perspectives on life and work — and to launch new careers or vocations that represent more of who they are, or want to be.

Sandy Beach — No Regrets

As I write this, I am on a flight home from Seattle, where I spent the weekend in a master class, which culminated in recording my professional demo for my next career in voice over (VO) acting. I celebrated my 53^rd birthday on Sunday. Doing VO work is a dream I have nurtured for many years. I always found excuses, some of them quite compelling, for not making it happen. 

Last March, I left an administrative position that I had been in for nearly six years, to take care of my 100 year old grandmother. She had spent the latter half of her life  bitter, unhappy and quite vocal about it. At summer’s end, she passed away. Part of my grieving process was a realization that if I didn’t change, I saw myself going down that same road. My new mantra became, “No regrets”.

This January, I was hired to research and edit business journal articles at The Opus College of Business at St. Thomas. This gives me the security and income I need while I begin to grow my VO business. My ultimate goal is to support myself (and my poetry habit) without a "regular day job".

I’m certain it was no coincidence that I found Shift during my personal and vocational transition. I’m certainly grateful that I did. Perfect timing, as I was half-heartedly job hunting and yet seeking “something more”. The visionary thinkers at SHiFT were drinking coffee at Dunn Brothers and stirring up changes in the way society views “mid-lifers” 

One concept that grabbed me was, Find meaning in your life. Shouldn’t that be mandatory, I thought? As I attended meetings of varying topics and formats, I was impressed with the range of ideas and ideals coming together in a room of interesting, lively, and engaged people forming a sort of convergence of information, support, and resources. SHiFT energy was palpable and contagious.

Hanging out with SHiFTers made me realize that it’s not too late to make my dream happen, contribute, perhaps make a difference, and truly live with, “No regrets”.

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Got Story?

Has your association with SHiFT inspired you in some way?  Got a story about it that you're willing to share?  Send it (approximately 300 words max, please), plus a photo, to Jay McManus.  Know that your story could inspire someone who reads it.  Just as what you heard stirred you to to start rethinking your notions of what's possible.  Thanks!

Testimonials
Here are some brief testimonials recorded at various SHiFT events.

"SHiFT is pioneering a novel approach to supporting midlife career transitions. There is nowhere else in the community where I can hear the candid, inspiring and courageous stories of others who have created meaningful work for themselves." 

"What I see in SHiFT is a shift in consciousness that is taking place in our community, which is inspiring to finally see!" 

"Without SHiFT, I would not have been ready to say yes to the temporary executive director position I accepted — which has now opened a whole new set of doors for me.”

"I am consistently impressed with the high level of speakers and programming SHiFT puts out for its Forum Series." 

"My association with SHiFT helped me find a job that I can take with me to Mexico. Now that's networking!"