Today’s Morning Buzz is by Megan Young, Business Officer in the County Manager’s Office in Wake County, North Carolina. Connect with Megan on LinkedIn.
What I’m reading: While technically this belongs in the What I’m Listening To category, I’m into audiobooks these days. I wish I could sit still long enough to read, but I’m surrounded by people who do—and they always give me the best audiobook suggestions. I’m a public library/Libby kind of person, which means I’m usually on a long waiting list (currently 256th in line for The Wedding People—I started it, it expired, and now I’m back on the list). I recently finished The Midnight Library. Shoutout to my friend and fellow local government leader who just launched a new business: Finn Ollie’s Book Trolley. She and my other book-obsessed friends inspire me every day.
What I’m watching: I’ve watched Grey’s Anatomy since day one (we’re talking high school)—it might be my longest commitment. Ironically, Parks and Recreation is probably my favorite show. The Office, Friends, and Gilmore Girls are my comfort shows that I can always have on repeat. Other favorites right now include English Teacher, High Potential, Hacks, Abbott Elementary, and Ghosts.
What I’m listening to: I love music of all varieties, but I also love familiarity—music that brings me peace and joy. My go-tos: Brandi Carlile, Jack Johnson, Ed Sheeran, Sara Bareilles, and Coldplay (I’m seeing them at Wembley later this month!). Also, shoutout to a college friend who just dropped new music—Michael Alvarado. One of my comfort podcasts is The Office Ladies.
The Power of Pivoting
If you’ve ever tried to move a couch, you’ve probably heard Ross’ voice in your head: “Pivot! Pivot!” It’s one of the iconic scenes from Friends—and a surprisingly accurate metaphor for career transitions.
I recently made a major pivot: from a career in parks and recreation in smaller government to a new role at the county level. It was a shift that felt like trying to wedge furniture up a staircase or around a tight corner—stressful, uncertain, but kind of exciting (I love a challenge).
But here’s the thing about pivoting: it’s not just about changing direction. It’s about trusting that the path, however unfamiliar, has something valuable to teach you. And this is coming from someone who’s almost always impatient when it comes to career growth.
My “why” is community impact, and in parks and rec, I thrived on community engagement, creative programming, and the joy of seeing a project come to life. I’ve had the opportunity to help create amazing spaces and places for communities experiencing rapid growth. At the county level, the scale and systems are different—but my “why” is still there. I just found it in a new place.
I was hired into a new position in the County Manager’s Office to build foundational resources and operational systems for two newly established departments focused on employee and resident well-being, equity advancement, and reimagining practices. Talk about a pivot!
Stepping out of your comfort zone can be stressful—but it’s also where growth happens. I’ve learned more in the past few months than I ever expected, especially about myself. Someone I’ve worked closely with in IT compared some of my responsibilities to building businesses. Back to stressful, uncertain, but kind of exciting—especially when those “businesses” have a profound impact on community.
I’ve strengthened my skills in innovation, budget, and culture-building…just to name a few. The change has also reminded me how many parallels there are between local government fields and the power of collaboration. Wherever my path takes me, I know I’m better because of the power of pivoting.
So, if you’re facing a pivot—whether it’s a new job, a new role, or a new challenge—lean into it. Trust the process. And maybe rewatch that Friends episode (or your favorite comfort show) for a laugh. Because sometimes, the best way forward is around the corner you didn’t expect to turn.
Also, be kind to yourself. 🙂