This text shook my world and launched me on my path as a career consultant. Although I’ve saved hundreds of motivational and inspirational quotes, this is my favorite.

I first saw Emerson’s grand words during Joe Sabah’s workshop called “How to Get the Job You Really Want.” At that time, following a divorce, I was lost and unsure which way to turn. This quote, which suggests there’s a “right place for everyone,” including me, along with Joe Sabah’s enthusiasm, and Dick Bolles’ inspiration convinced me that “Career Planning” was indeed a field, and that I could pursue it with a purpose. (Bolles is the author of the perennial bestseller What Color Is Your Parachute?)

The result has been a 35-year labor of love, including 35,000 hours of face-to-face career consulting, and service to more than 356 brand-name corporations. Emerson’s concept, that there’s a “right place for everyone,” regardless of the adversity of their circumstances, has been a guiding principle for me. In truth, I’ve never seen it fail. As you read this, I believe the same is true for you: There is one direction in which “all space is open to you.”

If you’re there, great. If not, I wish you speed and success in finding your one direction.