Grace Stelmachowicz, a resident of Squamish, B.C., shared her personal journey in this First Person account. She reflects on her upbringing where the traditional path to success was outlined as attending university, securing a job in the chosen field, getting married, buying a house, and starting a family. However, her perspective shifted when she deviated from this conventional route in 2016.
Despite intending to pursue a summer engineering position to enhance her resume, Grace unexpectedly landed a job at a horseback trail riding company in Banff National Park. This experience allowed her to reconnect with her childhood passion for horseback riding and explore the picturesque Rockies on horseback, deviating from her initial career plans.
Embracing the unconventional, Grace discovered that a fulfilling life doesn’t solely revolve around a desk job and corporate ladder climbing. She found joy in appreciating simple moments, whether it be a serene morning or enduring a challenging 16-hour workday in adverse weather conditions. Working seasonally introduced her to a diverse group of individuals who reshaped her definition of a fulfilling life.
The deep bonds forged with colleagues during seasonal work stood out from her other social connections. Although bidding farewell to these temporary companions posed emotional challenges, the lasting impact they had on her outlook on success and life was profound. Grace learned that success is not confined to a linear career path but can encompass various forms of personal growth and fulfillment.
After pursuing her cowgirl dreams at a ranch in Cranbrook, B.C., against familial expectations, Grace transitioned to a career in international sales. Her seasonal work experiences instilled in her the confidence to embrace new opportunities and navigate unfamiliar territories. Despite her current role, she still yearns for the simplicity and freedom she found while working outdoors with horses.
Reflecting on her journey, Grace acknowledges that her present contentment stems from following her aspirations and embracing a life she loves. She encourages others to seek exploration, new experiences, and enjoyment in life, echoing the valuable lessons she learned through seasonal work.
