Life is a beautiful ride, isn't it? Back in 2011, as a military spouse who has relocated overseas in support of my husband’s career, I has lonely, bored, and a little despondent. I was volunteering for three different organizations while pursing my MBA, but I still felt that I had too much "free time"! What could I do to fill the empty hours?
On a whim, I decided to take risk and start my own business. At the time I focused on photography only and hoped that I might be able to find a few people that would be willing to let me take their portraits. After a few months, I began to add in my graphic design services. I was pleasantly surprised when I started to build a base of clients. Building that business was such a blessing and my confidence as an artist and entrepreneur began to blossom and grow.
I learned so much in those first years of business! I was graphic designer, photographer, marketing director, and accountant. Yes, it was a busy time, but so much fun! I began to rediscover the excitement of being creative.
In a few years we moved back to the United States and although my business was great fun and was still growing, I felt that I needed to find a job that utilized my education. In retrospect, I felt guilty for not being full time employed and still thought of my business as a nice "hobby", not a career. I went back to work as an administrative assistant but still took portraits and designed graphics on the weekends.
After about a year, I finally admitted to myself that I was in a dead-end in my career. I had moved too many times and as a military spouse, employers saw me as short-term and were hesitant to invest resources in training me. Underemployed and stuck in a rut, I began to realize it was time to take control of my future. Could I become a full-time artist? Shouldn’t I at least give it a try? So I did!
I love new beginnings and soon another new beginning awaits for me as I once again start over in a new location. Happily, to me, each new starts brings a feeling of excitement! How about you? What new adventure awaits you? Are you sending the kids to college? Starting a new job?
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