From Spreadsheets to Symbolism: A Data Analyst's Late-Start into Inner Work
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Hey everyone. I’m 44, working as a data analyst for a financial services firm right here in Atlanta. For years, my life was all about KPIs, quarterly reports, and optimizing workflows. Then about a year ago, I hit a rough patch. Burnout, honestly. The numbers stopped making sense, and I realized I needed to look inward. I don’t do “woo-woo” spirituality. I frame this as inner work—strictly self-improvement and psychological growth.
As a night owl, my real work happens after 11 PM. That’s when I dive into books and reflection. One concept that really clicked for me was Jung’s idea of “shadow work.” In data terms, it’s like running a diagnostic on the parts of yourself you usually ignore or suppress. Acknowledging those blind spots was the first step toward actual transformation.
I’ve also started using Tarot as a psychological mirror, not a fortune-telling tool. When I pull a card like The Hermit, I see it as a nudge to step back from the noise and examine my own processes. The Fool represents that initial leap into the unknown—perfect metaphor for starting inner work at 44. It’s about embracing curiosity over certainty.
If you’re looking for reading recommendations that bridge psychology and self-growth, I highly suggest:
- Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl – It’s less about spirituality and more about finding purpose even in difficult circumstances.
- The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck – Great for understanding how emotional discipline and self-reflection actually work.
- Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman – Helps you recognize cognitive biases that get in the way of genuine growth.
I’m still a beginner, honestly. But trading some Excel macros for evening journaling and symbolic reflection has been surprisingly grounding. Would love to hear how others balance analytical work with inner development. What books or practices have helped you make that shift?
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