A study in 2008 found that 80% of people over 45 years old consider changing careers, but only 6% actually take the leap.
I was "only" 36 when I had that stinging urge and I took that shaky leap just earlier this year, after around a two year long contemplation.
Now, entering my six months' leading a small communications agency that I've co-founded, I am only starting accept these adjustments below:
- I can no longer afford my monthly fancy manicures. Well, I can. But since the company's revenue is not "there" yet, I do not feel like I have the right to enjoy what I am making at the moment
- Business owners advised me to "Give it a year or two." when it comes to feel a bit more secure. Like, you'll sleep better, the money starts to come in smoothly. At first, I was like "Whoa that is a long time." Bu, actually, no. My business model is quite unique and can actually be considered safe. I did not have to put a huge capital. So a year should be fine. I do not mind the wait. The sleepless nights on the other hand... Eugh
- Extra time? Not really. I promised my friends that I will be able to hang out with them more. But look at me now. I just cannot stand the idea of not using certain hours of the day not trying to make money. Because, every second counts. Also, I have one employee. Yes, that is enough for you to feel the kick on your ass every morning
- Every six months, I would usually do a spring cleaning on my closet. Any piece I no longer like, I will gladly give to colleagues, cousins, or anyone. Now? My next spring cleaning is in three weeks and I am thinking of tagging those pieces with a price. It sounds horrible to me... But, well, I also love buying second-handed items. So why not?
But it's not always hard and annoying and or budget related. There are so many things that I am so thankful of:
- Marilyn's condition is deteriorating. Last June, her last seizure was so rough it took her six hours to recover fully. It is hard to not worry about money (her medicines, lab tests, therapy, neurologist), but if I am given the options to go back to my day time job or to work harder with this new start up while having the freedom to take care of my baby, I know I will never second guess my path today
- I have the liberty to decide on who do I want to work with. Or not. This is a bit tricky tho, because at the back of my mind I always want to say YES to every single opportunity that comes my way. But turns out, I cannot. Why? Because time suddenly valued way higher than it used to be. And values are timed more for me these days. One example here: I have a skeptical views on overpriced charity dinner, so when an organizer seeks for a possibility for me to work on their campaign, I refrain myself from taking the opportunity. How to sell something you do not believe in? Or, when an owner of some fancy establishments in Bali showed up two hour late on our first meeting, why would I even bat an eye for the next one?
- I feel much more empowered. Representing your own label somehow gives you this enthralling feeling you never thought you have. My past working experience are amazing and I am glad that the corporate discipline I gained is really helping me to stay on my new ground
- My horizons are changing. I am meeting people from different industries and with different background. Most of them making me feel like I have not learned enough. And that... is a good feeling to have
- Fun facts: I cannot get any work done before I put my red lipstick on. Haha!
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