Hard work for sure pays off, in more ways than one, right?
Choosing the right career path is so important. I believe taking a gap year is not a bad idea. Some may say it breaks the rhythm of being in the study groove, but how many of us knew what we wanted to do for the rest of our life, at such a tender age?
We all come to many crossroads through the different seasons of our lives.
The very first one we face is when we leave school - what career path to follow? College, university, an apprenticeship, or find a job with an employer willing to take on someone who does not have the most wanted attributes - experience!
How do they expect one to get experience when very few are willing to employ someone without that magical attribute?
Many who further their education often end up in a career path far removed from what they studied! Why? As I said earlier, they're unsure, cannot find a position in their field of study, or grab the next best job!
That's another crossroad - take it or leave it?
It may not be their dream job, and they may find themselves in a job that does not fulfill those dreams.
I was happy in my job, but never quite fulfilled, something was missing! Yes, I worked with wonderful people and formed lifelong friendships with some, but the work alone was not enough.
When retirement started looming, hubby and I started our Airbnb.
The best move ever, as well as the very best experience, and in our autumn years of all time!
Our two bedroom cottage
Our studio unit
Both my late hubby and I had/have a love of people, and we built up a wonderful clientele.
Naturally one cannot run a successful BnB without reliable staff. My housekeeper and gardener-cum-handyman have worked for me for many years, both take pride in their work and have wonderful temperaments; people's persons for sure! We still manage to have some good laughs in between working!
When dealing with guests from all walks of life, all over the world, and all temperaments, one for sure has to keep your sense of humour! We are often left speechless by the antics of some, and then the generosity of others! Naturally, this mix of people makes for a very interesting job! Lily's Cottage has introduced us to a fascinating mix of people, and given us a glimpse of how different everyone lives their lives. What may seem normal to them, is quite foreign to us!
Real-time online guest reviews are valuable for marketing, and that is how we have managed to get our awards from the online booking portal booking.com, for a couple of years running!
I still page through our old guest book and it's wonderful looking back, reading the comments, and remembering the guests. Some are difficult to put a face to, but others are etched into our minds!
My staff truly agree that this has been their absolute best job ever!
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