Impossible doesn't exist

 
This is one of my favorite sayings. It is with me every single day, and especially during the moments when I doubt myself or I think I can't do something...

You are looking at the person, who 15 years ago couldn't speak a word of English, who dreamed of having an office job, and dreamed of being able to have a fluent conversation in English...  At that time not only these sounded impossible, it actually was impossible...  Without speaking the language how could I work in an office or communicate in English? But impossible doesn't exist --- it was only the time I needed to change the impossible into possible!


I had to start from the bottom - first English classes, I started from the level 1, which was for people who pretty much know no English (All I could say back then was " Hello,and vegetables").   I had classes from 9am-12pm Monday to Friday, and then I would study at home for couple of hours - read magazines, listen to the radio , watch tv , and memorize new words. Six months later I thought I could speak English pretty good, as I could understand what my teacher was saying.... It never occurred to me that the teacher spoke with the turtle's speed and articulated every word so clearly...  

I only realized when I went out to the real world  I pretty much understood 10% or 20% ... Clearly that wasn't enough to get me my to the office job... So I applied for 12 months business course at TAFE. I was the only person in my class, barely speaking and writing. So English-Polish dictionary became my BFF... I put my heart, soul, and many many hours into this course. Writing an assignment was so hard, in term of using the correct Grammar, and of course the context.  12 months later I received my Certificate IV in Business with high marks - majority were distinctions. I couldn't be happier and prouder. It was a great achievement - so I thought, now I'm ready to go in the workforce...

Three months later, approx 100 resumes sent and not a single invitation to the interview.. I was so disappointed and had no plan what to do next.  Some people told me to look for a work in the factory, but  I still believed I could get an office job.... Silly? Maybe..  After four months one company invited me for an interview - it was a Receptionist, Student Support Staff role in a private hospitality College...  I don't even remember the interview very well as I was so nervous... BUT I GOT THE JOB!!!! OMG ... 1.5 years after I moved to Australia with no English I had my first job, and it was an office job!! I have a lot of stories from this job to share but that will be coming in my other posts... All I could tell you today is that I worked there for 3.5 years and I have learnt so much... 

I hope I convince you to take the next step and start working on your dreams.... whether it's a career or your personal goals... 

A famous Henry Ford quote, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can't – you're right,” emphasizes how much attitude determines success or failure.

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​Iwona

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