"Taking a career break"

Last 3 days, I came across an article in the Strait Times (dd 27/4/05 under Recruit) with the above caption, and I find it very interesting as the article described exactly what I will be doing in 6 days time.

To summarise the article:
"More professionals in Britain are taking months to years off work to see the world."
"Taking a sabbatical to travel the world is a great way to recharge your work batteries and prioritise the important things in life."

When I read the article, I am glad that now I have some information on hand to show and explain to my friends about what I will be embarking. Cos, I really do have different responses from various friends and relatives (some are very supportive and excited about it, some have concerns about my decision to let go of everything I have created for the last 6 yrs, some simply find it stupid of me to go out and come back with "nothing" and got to start all over again), and sometimes it can be rather difficult to explain why I want to do what I am about to do.

We all have different priorities in life, to some their priorities maybe family, or career, or education, or health etcs... and it will change as we aged.

I had worked hard for my buisness of 6 years (Costumes & Mascots) , over the years it had grown to be a profitable buisness with regular clients and orders. And when I decided to let go and to go for a year break "to travel the world", it was really a major decision, cos it affects not only myself, my family (mum), and also my staffs. I had thought it over a couple of time, whether I should let it go, finally I made a decision to go for my dream. The only question I ask myself is "Joy, if you are to continue with what you are doing, and in 5 years time, will you be happy with where you are" My answer was a NO. And that's it, I decided to go and find my happiness and offer my service to be involved in some mission works when I am in Africa.

Another question that is often posed to me is "What will happen when you come back?"
My answer is "I don't know" but I do know that when I return, I will have gained a lot of invalueable life experiences and lessons. Who knows, I may come back with inspiration to start another new biz venture or I may found my soul mate and gotten married and settle down somewhere ;) Well, the options are always open.

Like Abraham in the Old Testament, who hads left all his belongings and life behind for a land of unknown, is greatly blessed in abundance with the different nations and people he met. Deep down in my heart I know as God's grace is upon Abraham and his family, His mighty hand will be upon mine too.

My motto is "We only have one life, and it is very important that we live it to the fullest. Do not live life with any regrets in your latter years. "

So dear friends, thank you all for your geniune concerns and support, I really appreciate it. Frankly, I will miss all of you.

Love you all. Joy

my email: joydive@gmail.com