What does Doctors Without Borders have to do with career intentions?

In a blog about career intent, it may seem out-of-place to discuss an organization such as Doctors Without Borders. It is not that DWB isn’t a good and admirable place to have a career (not to mention, my favorite organization) but I am writing about them today because of the people they serve.

Be thankful for choices.

No doubt, in the U.S., there is higher than usual unemployment, many companies have all but stopped hiring, and everyone who is looking for work has even lots more to contend with than they did only a short time ago. But, if you put it all into perspective, you may realize just how far ahead of the game you actually are.

In perusing the Doctors Without Borders' website recently, I was overwhelmed by the catastrophes, civil unrest, disease, and maltreatment that citizens throughout the world endure and DWB staff and volunteers confront on a daily basis. One of the chief reasons I support DWB is because, unlike us, the people they serve don’t have choices. These people aren’t just out of work or looking for a fulfilling career. For many, they are stuck in Maslow’s first hierarchal need – basic survival – and they will likely be at this level until the day they die. They are born into war, violence, and poverty, living their lives under dictators and murderers. Getting a new job will not be the answer to their problems.

All of this got me thinking about the stress and frustration any one of us may feel when finding ourselves working for the wrong company, our work is dull, or we don’t feel fulfilled. When considering moving out or on, you may experience trepidation even though you know you must if you are ever to realize your career aspirations. If this is ever the case, that you feel fear in the face of pursuing the career that is right for you, I invite you to spend a few minutes reading some of the stories on the web pages at Doctors Without Borders. I promise that your perspective on the choices you have and the ability to do something about making those changes will not feel so insurmountable after all.