I was inspired by a post from Tanis (of Tanis Fiber Arts) on Instagram about her maker, mom, and businesswoman journey to share some of my own journey.
Two years ago I left an executive level advertising job, which was the “dream job” I had worked towards for over a decade.
For 13 years I worked 50/60/70 hour weeks. I worked weekends and late nights. I ate lunch at my desk. I hopped on planes and trains for day trips all over the country - often with only a day or two’s notice.
I lead teams to do great creative work. I sold national campaigns and global strategies to clients. I won a bunch of awards - including 3 Webby Awards (the digital advertising equivalent of the Emmy’s).
I also had to say “no” to my family.
I had landed the gig I dreamed about and after a few months I knew it wasn’t what I wanted. I didn’t want to say “no” - I wanted to say “yes”. Yes to chaperoning the school field trip, yes to being at the bus stop. Yes to being present for my family; for myself. So I quit my job.
It’s been two years almost exactly. In that time I’ve built a sustainable marketing business (working for myself on my terms) and launched Twisted Craftworks.
I also say “yes” to my family. A lot. I wouldn’t trade my kid’s fist pump that I’ll plan a class party for another ad award. Fist pumps are worth a lot more.
Twisted Craftworks is still in its infancy, but I have a long term plan. I’m good at those ;-)
A little snippet of the post from Tanis that inspired this post: “I started Tanis Fiber Arts 11 years ago because I knew that I wanted to build a career for myself where I could have it all.” (Feel free to read her whole post and add your own comment or buy a little yarn.)
Left over yarn and pompom for the Sorbet Slouch