Lady in the Middle
By Ashley M. Ratcliff
At 23 years old, I’m just now getting used to being called a “career woman.” I’ve been at my first professional job now for almost a year. I’m single. I don’t have kids. At this stage in my life, I have the freedom to enjoy the two things I most love: writing and spending time with the people who mean the most to me — family and close friends.
Don’t get me wrong, the field of journalism is stressful and at times can be mentally and emotionally draining. That’s why it’s important to find balance between work and home in order to keep sane. Maintaining a social life outside of my demanding work schedule is a necessity. You know what they say, “All work and no play make for a dull girl.” So true.
Yes, my career is important, but I keep “fun time” high on my list of priorities. I’m so thankful that I have family and my best friends around to keep me going when I need a boost of assurance. Visiting my parents, brothers and sister can be a breath of fresh air when my work world seems to occupy my mind. And nothing’s more fulfilling than a night out with friends to remind me of how blessed I truly am.
Here’s my advice to fellow young professionals out there: When you start your career, you’ll soon find that weekends were made for relaxation and revitalization. Take care of those and you’ll find stability among the pressures that the workplace may bring.
Ashley M. Ratcliff currently is city editor at the Palos Verdes Peninsula News.
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