I have just made a trip to Calgary. En route I purchased the June issue of Atlantic magazine because it had the results of the longest happiness research project that lasted over 70 years of Harvard sophomores. Its contents, as much literature as science, offer profound insight into the human condition—and into the brilliant, complex mind of the study’s longtime director, George Vaillant.
My trip included a drive to nearby Banff. Looking for directions I asked a Parks employee for assistance. An amazing conversation followed... in all of about three minutes.
The employee introduced himself as Bill and he was collecting garbage from parking lot recepticles. He was so friendly and helpful I asked him if he was having a good day. "Couldn't be better" he replied with a broad smile... as he sealed another dark green plastic garbage bag.
Dressed in a kind of Tilley hat, dark glaases with a bandana around his neck he told me he had recently sold his retail business in Ontario. He and his wife had arrived in Banff and he went looking for a job. Walking into the Parks Department he asked what jobs were available for a retired person. They took him on immediately with at least one benefit - three weeks holiday.
During this fast moving conversation I said something like "well, I need to meet you." He quickly replied "what are you selling, I already use Usana!" I explained that I would just like to know his story because his experience sounded like a good fit for my work research.
Quickly we exchanged email addresses. He was obviously keen to get to his next stop. As I slowly backed the car up his final words were "excuse me if I sound excessively happy... but I am."
I'll be following up with Bill to get a few more details. But whatever else I find out... this conversation made my day. It's an example of courage and a willingness to try something outside of the box... even if it is collecting garbage and more importantly helping to maintain one of the most prestine locations in Canada.
Don't let pride stand in the way of trying something new or something that might be unusual for you. When you have the slightest nudge that something needs to be done, don’t hesitate. Intuition is a strong force in even the busiest person. Pay close attention to that little small voice. If you do you will never go wrong.
Tell us your story:
- What unusual job have you taken that brings you happiness?
- What purpose are you planning on pursuing once you leave your career?
- What is the most unusual job you can imagine yourself doing?