The unique aspect of consulting is that you’re always going from client to client, industry to industry, and role to role. It is the definition of an always changing job. There’s little time to ever build a routine or be personally vested.
Every once in a while, you do land in a client where you’re loved, and you make an impact. In those moments, it’s always tough to transition to the next project. You leave behind a piece of your soul, your sweat, your tears. You also take away a piece of your client’s culture with you and it becomes a part of you.
After several months at my last client, I’m finally moving on to my next adventure. More to come there. I’m now reflecting on the past several months, the routines I’ve made for lunch, parking, and daily life. Now, it’s different. Not in a bad way, not in a good way, just different.
Friendships built will fade just as with past clients but many will transcend the transnational nature of our business. Those are the ones that earn a spot on your phone’s favorite list and a regular messaging friend. They sometimes come back years later in new roles and new opportunities.
In the 12 years I’ve been doing this, I’ve come to peace with the amazing nature of my business and the downsides of the work. It makes me happy, frustrated, and sometimes overwhelmed with joy and despair.
I am a consultant.