When Life Calls, Will Your Career Let You Answer?

When my dad called me and asked me to come in mid August, neither of us had a clue as to what was coming. I booked a one-way ticket and made the 1,000-mile trip. As I settled into my seat on the plane, a profound wave of gratitude washed over me. Over the past three years, I have redefined what work means to me. It wasn’t an easy journey. My work, deliberately crafted around my passions and purpose while working on my own terms. Now I was reaping the benefits of that decision, supporting my dad during a time when he needed me most.

My dad’s story is not unique. Many of my peers share similar stories about their aging parents. “Stubborn, hanging on by their fingernails. Living alone in a home that no longer meets their needs.” Dad’s mobility, balance, and stamina had been decreasing with each passing month. He knew that he needed support, to live, to make a decision about what came next. For 10 days, I supported him. No decisions were made—until a health crisis forced one.

Dad spent 21 days in the hospital, then 30 days in a rehab facility, then onto the next “temporary” home. I have spent 8 weeks over 2 trips with Dad. I am heading back again in a few days. 

During those long hospital days, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel moments of frustration. I worried about my business. I had to cancel meetings, miss events, and set aside projects. My last blog post was early August—a stark reminder of how life had shifted. Yet, I allowed myself to feel those emotions before summoning gratitude. Because deep down, I knew there was no other place I was meant to be.

This is why I redefined my career—so I could show up fully for the people and moments that matter most. I built a career that aligns with my life, not the other way around. And that’s exactly what I want for you.

So many women I speak with dream of a career that allows them to be exactly where they want to be, when they want to be there. Some may feel stuck, undervalued, or unfulfilled in their careers. Others may be facing a big life transition such as divorce or empty nesting, and want to build meaningful work, but keep the autonomy and flexibility they have grown accustomed to. 

I invite you to join me to redefine what work means to you and create a career that aligns with your values, passions, and purpose. Building a career that fits your life starts with clarity—understanding your vision, your priorities, and your non-negotiables. 

Here are three key steps to help you begin:

1. Declare It’s Time for a Change
It’s time to take control. Start by asking yourself: “What do I truly want from my work and my life?” “What do I need out of my work?” “What are my non-negotiables?” Give yourself permission to dream without judgment or limits.

2. Envision Your Ideal Work-Life Blend
What does a career on your terms look like? It may start with an employee job to give yourself the runway to build a portfolio career that blends part-time work, consulting, passion projects, and entrepreneurship. Perhaps it’s transitioning into an encore career that leverages your expertise in a meaningful new way. The possibilities are endless when you redefine work on your terms.

3. Take the First Step—Even If It’s Small
Change can feel overwhelming, but progress starts with one small step. Maybe it’s exploring your options, reaching out to a mentor, or having a conversation with me. Momentum builds confidence.

My mission is to inspire women to disrupt traditional career paths and build lives by design – so you can be exactly where they’re meant to be, when you’re meant to be there. If you’re ready to reimagine what work can look like for you, I invite you to hop on my calendar. Let’s chat!

https://calendly.com/mariadastur/30-minute-exploration-session

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