Three years ago today, I quit my job.
I didn’t set out to be my own boss — it happened quite organically. Upon my departure I sent out an All-Points Bulletin to my friends and colleagues asking them to be on the look out for new opportunities. Within the week, I heard from a few former colleagues asking me if I’d consider consulting for their companies as they were struggling with integrating social media into their marketing campaigns. I’d not considered consulting, and since I had lined up a few job interviews with area schools and non-profits, I thought it wasn’t worth extra thought.
It wasn’t until two of my former clients, upon hearing of my departure from the small startup, inquired about working with me, that I began to take it more seriously. They received permission to work with me and by the end of summer I had procured five new clients.
As I began to hone my skills as a self-employed consultant, I was very careful not to set myself up for failure. I met with a financial consultant and an attorney who helped me manage myself personally and professionally. Being my own boss, while exciting, can be overwhelming. I am not adverse to taking risks, but I wanted to have a strong foundation in place upon which to build.
Three years have gone by very quickly and I have been very fortunate to work with amazing clients and build a network of colleagues from whom I have learned a great deal. I’m often asked when I’ll be hiring and while I wear many hats, I have no plans do so anytime soon. Though I want to grow, I want to make sure I do so responsibly. I am not in business to show off. I am in business to help others. (After all, as the Aesop fable goes “It is not only fine feathers that make fine birds.”)
I like to work and I love what I do. I am constantly challenged to be better, work smarter and learn more. I look forward to continuing on the path before me. Thank you to everyone — friends, family and colleagues — your help and support has helped me grow considerably!
Happy Anniversary!
Photo credit: creativity-cards.com