"What is your plan?"

Melody Fogarty


Trees

We are just days away from the rest of your life. What is your plan? What are the excuses for not achieving your dreams? What are the obstacles in your way? How long are you going to chase the impossible? In short, if you don't think you can get to where you want to go, stop reading and move on with your day.


For 2024, I am going to ask you to move differently, think differently. Let's start with a vision of the life you want in five years. What would you have to do in 2024 to ensure success in five years? 


I know a young woman who was aged out of foster care, had a child in her teens, did not finish high school, and did time in prison. According to most, she would achieve very little. However, she was able to start a successful international business, meet high wealth power brokers, and finish her bachelor's degree while raising an amazing son. The only difference between you and her, is determination and self-confidence.


Would you believe, I know a divorced, mother of three, executive assistant who left corporate America to start a for-profit community center for her children.  Using the connections, she made with the city and state as well as the childcare and athletic industries, my friend diversified her efforts into construction management and real estate development. Why was she able to make these changes? Pure determination and self-confidence.


I know a former substance abuser who at 43 years of age left his addictions behind and became an apprentice in the trades. At 63 years old, he started a successful commercial construction and consulting firm. It was determination and self-confidence that caused him to follow through on his dreams.


So, I ask again, what do you want for your life? What is standing in your way? Clearly, determination and self-confidence are key to your success, however you need a mission, a plan. 


If you want a successful career, then determine what is necessary in that field to be successful versus what credentials you already possess. Whatever you are missing, find a way to acquire the credential and/or experience. If you are missing exposure or experience, look outside of your city, state or the United States for opportunities. Network with friends and family and friends of friends and family. Note: Opportunities posted at the Vice President above are not really available. You will need to network to get the first interview. 


If age is standing in your way, re-evaluate your experience and skills. Use your expertise to teach others, tutor or consult or write. If you are retired, and need some extra funds consider working in catering. Other great jobs would be night auditor at a hotel, concierge, substitute elementary school teacher, associate professor at a community college, instructional designer, editor, or a paid board member.

 

However, if the issue is money, then focus on those opportunities that value your expertise and experience. This means if you were a C-suite executive, a cashier job at a Big Box retailer will not provide the hourly or annual income you had in the C-suite position. You may be better off re-entering the workforce as a paralegal, consultant or community college professor, board member or executive director for a non-profit. 


The fastest way forwarded is to determine the delta between where you are and where you want to be, then close it.


Happy Holidays!


Melody


Sparkman Articles

June 18, 2025
“Wired with Purpose: John’s Legacy of Faith, Fatherhood, and Fortitude” "John Crawford"
June 18, 2025
Father’s Day is a time to honor the men who shape lives, lead with quiet strength, and love without condition.
June 18, 2025
Father’s Day, we proudly celebrate all fathers including the often-overlooked heroes—our non-custodial fathers who are showing up, stepping up, and staying committed.
June 18, 2025
As a Black mother, watching the sunset paint the sky tonight, my heart isn't just filled with love for my own child's father, but with a profound, resonant gratitude for **all** of you.
June 18, 2025
We Need to Talk About Mental Health "Roger Whittler, LPC"
June 18, 2025
This week has been a powerful reminder of one of my divine assignments in this season: the role of a spiritual father. I’ve had the joy of sitting with several young ministers, pouring into their lives, encouraging their calling, and helping shape their future. I have two more of those meetings today.
June 18, 2025
It was very difficult to make the decision to put my father on hospice. But when it was needed it was the best decision for him. As a hospice chaplain many people may not understand the care that a hospice program can provide.
June 17, 2025
The alarm clock hasn't even sounded yet, but I'm already awake at 5:47 AM. Something deeper than caffeine pulls me from sleep. It's the Holy Ghost moving in my spirit, preparing me for another day of warfare. Joshua 1:9 cuts through the pre-dawn darkness: "Have not I commanded thee?
April 21, 2025
Let’s be honest—Easter, for many, has become just another holiday on the calendar. Bright pastel ads, last-minute retail runs, and overflowing candy aisles often drown out the deeper meaning of the season.
April 21, 2025
Some people leave a mark on your organization. Others leave a mark on your heart. Pastor Ricky D. Floyd did both. It’s hard to put into words what this man meant to me, to Kings & Priests, and to so many others who were blessed to cross his path.
More Posts