
Before you go, sign up for our email newsletter to get inspiring stories, expert advice, and more.
You are using an outdated browser.
For a better experience, please upgrade your browser here.
Cortney Snapp
Community Director
Fresno, CA
There are always opportunities; life is really all about timing.
I have always hated the saying “everything happens for a reason.” It seems most people say it when they are at a loss for words and want to try to console someone going through a rough patch. The saying is usually true; the drag is, when you are going through something difficult, you don’t have a crystal ball – you just have to lean in, accept what is happening and trust God.
In Fall 2008 I decided to make a major career move and turn in my notice as director of operations for a local publication. After leaving, I felt like I was starting from scratch. In many ways, I was.
After feeling a little overwhelmed by my options, I decided to look around to see what opportunities were sitting right in front of me. I was not shy with my network, and shared that I was open and willing to try just about anything.
I received a Facebook message from the Executive Director of Make-A-Wish, asking me what I was looking to do with my career. I had met Diana when my nephew Chase – who had been diagnosed with leukemia – was granted his wish to go to Disneyland. Even though Diana didn’t have any current openings at Make-A-Wish, she said she’d keep her ear to the ground for me.
About a year later – after couple of jobs that weren’t a long term career fit – I reached back out to Diana to see if she knew of any opportunities. She said she thought Make-A-Wish might have a position later on that fall, and to check back in with her. So I calendared to reach back out to her in August.
Meanwhile, I took advantage of my flexibility by starting a company – Central Valley Historic Estates – that rents out private estates for weddings and events. I was also still freelancing as a stylist and columnist for the local publication. A few months later, after reconnecting with Diana, I accepted a part-time position with Make-A-Wish Central California, that eventually led to the full-time role that I’m in today.
If I hadn’t left the my full-time position at the magazine and opened myself up to taking a different path, then I wouldn’t have the career with Make-A-Wish. The position is creative, social and high-energy—all attributes that I love in a job.
By February 2012 I thought I had it made. I had my dream job at Make-A-Wish as the Central California Community Director, my magazine gig, and my side business. Make-A-Wish had just wrapped up its annual fundraiser and I was visiting some of my best friends on Maui. I was single, juggling multiple careers, trying to be active in church and enjoying paradise—what more could I want? I turned to my personal life.
I had often been told I was intimidating to men because I was too successful. I would ask my mom, “Should I downsize all the opportunities that are in front of me just so I am approachable?” My mom said, “Continue to be yourself, someone will love you just as you are.” In February of 2012 – right at the busiest time of my career – I met my current husband.
As fate would have it, the magazine stopped printing, went digital and then dissipated a few months after that. It was the first time I would not be writing a column in seven years. Even though I loved writing that column, I embraced my newfound freedom. And even though I wanted to maintain my side business, my relationship took center stage: Chad and I had a short courtship, short engagement and got married in the fall of 2012. As I planned our exciting future, I chose to maintain rather than market my side business.
Looking back, I don’t regret a thing. Three years ago was about leaning in to new opportunities; last year was all about leaning in to balance. There are always opportunities; life is really all about timing. While my second least favorite saying is “timing is everything,” it’s absolutely true.
We make it easy to get started, and provide all of the materials you’ll need to run your Circle
Start your CircleWomen around the world are meeting regularly in small groups to support each other and learn new skills–join one today
Find a CircleUse our library of education resources to build new skills and support your career
Build your skills