2005: The Year Things Got Started!
Twenty years ago, I made a decision that would transform my career and life - I left my agency job to start my own marketing business from home. As I launch my "Confessions from the Home Office" podcast, I want to share my journey and what I've learned along the way.
The Catalyst for Change
Back in 2004, I was working at a marketing firm while juggling life with a two-year-old son who seemed to catch every illness going around. Running out of sick days and struggling to balance work with doctor's appointments, I proposed a hybrid work arrangement - working from home two days a week. While my employer agreed to try it, the arrangement wasn't smooth sailing. My colleagues would avoid calling on my work-from-home days, and eventually, peer reviews revealed complaints about my "special arrangement."
Instead of letting this discourage me, I listened to my intuition. "My son's only little once," I remember thinking. That inner voice told me it was time to strike out on my own, even without a concrete plan in place.
Taking the Leap
In January 2005, I handed in my resignation. I'll admit - my first few weeks of freedom were spent watching Sex and the City DVDs, something I can laugh about now. But soon enough, reality kicked in, and I began leveraging my agency experience and healthcare marketing background to build my business.
What I've Learned Along the Way
Through my two decades of experience, here are the three most crucial pieces of advice I can share:
Trust Your Instincts: That nagging feeling in your gut often signals your subconscious picking up on signals you haven't consciously processed yet. For me, many breakthrough moments came during 3 AM wake-ups when solutions would suddenly become clear.
Set a "Do or Die" Deadline: I'll tell you straight - misery is not a long-term strategy. Rather than giving yourself years to make a change, set a firm deadline. The urgency will force you to take action and overcome mental barriers.
Embrace the Entrepreneurial Rush: While a steady paycheck provides security, landing your own clients and closing deals brings an addictive surge of satisfaction. When you write that proposal, close that deal, and get that payment - trust me, it's addictive.
The Rewards of Taking Charge
Despite the challenges - including navigating a divorce and managing an unpredictable income - I've never regretted my decision. The flexibility to be present for my children, handle appointments, and control my schedule has been invaluable. Now approaching my 20th anniversary as a business owner, I want to encourage others to stop overthinking and start doing.
I've learned that dreaming is a great thing, but sometimes you have to stop the overthinking and just take action. While stepping out on your own isn't for the faint of heart, I can tell you from experience that the rewards of betting on yourself can be extraordinary.
Whether you're considering starting a side hustle or launching a full-fledged business, remember this: your intuition is often your best guide. When that voice inside keeps nudging you toward change, maybe it's time to listen.
Need to bounce a question off of me? Email me: [email protected]
