Lessons from a Multihyphenate: Building A Career & Life in Alignment
This blog post was taken from my feature in Shoutout LA! Read it here.
Reflecting on Work-Life Balance
I spent my twenties exploring careers that excited me, and I felt like I was really making a difference in people’s lives. That motivation, while pure in its intention, led me to sacrifice my own well-being in many ways. When you’re inspired, rewarded for your work ethic and focused on growing your career, it’s easy to overlook the signs of impending burnout. I’ve been extremely lucky in my career to have opportunities and mentors that believed in me, and let me take on more than I could handle. I was willing to reach my limits to make people proud, to feel successful. But I don’t think I knew what success meant for me, truly. I was chasing the version of success we see in highlight reels, but the reality felt different. I was deeply disconnected from my intuition. I was second-guessing every decision. I was reacting instead of responding. And ultimately, I pushed my limits so far that I had to completely step away from my dream job to heal and recover.
In the few weeks after, I realized that the version of success I was chasing was not sustainable, and maybe not even the type of life I wanted. I learned that the more ease and self-compassion I let into my life, not only did I feel more connected to my internal compass, but incredible opportunities came my way.
It’s been a long journey of keeping my inner overachiever in check and trusting myself. I’ve had to get used to the ebbs and flows of being a solopreneur. In the slow periods, I remind myself that business always ebbs and flows. I am not afraid of a cold email to people I admire to pitch myself, and stay curious about what else I can do to provide value to potential clients. When I start to get overwhelmed and take on more projects, I focus on staying grateful for the opportunities, knowing they don’t come often. I ask for advice when I need it from friends and other freelancers I know. I make sure to find time for my interests and hobbies, and because I work with clients who trust and respect me (because I now trust and respect myself), I don’t have to sacrifice my well-being for being great at my job.
Working for myself has been more rewarding and peaceful than any other job before, despite the uncertainty and lack of control I feel sometimes. I had to learn painful lessons in order to have the balance I’ve cultivated today, but now I know that who I am is more important than what I do, and that shift has had ripple effects throughout my life and career.
Tips for Finding Work-Life Balance as a Solopreneur
Listen to Your Intuition
Notice when something feels off or when you’re pushing yourself too hard. Trusting your gut can help you make decisions that align with your well-being.Accept the Ebbs and Flows
Business has its natural rhythms. During slower times, stay curious and look for new ways to add value. Trust that the busy seasons will return.Practice Gratitude Amidst Opportunity
When things get overwhelming, take a moment to appreciate the opportunities. This mindset shift keeps stress in check and helps you stay grounded.Ask for Support
Don’t hesitate to seek advice from friends or peers. Building a supportive network can be a game-changer for your mental health and professional growth.Honor Your Hobbies and Interests
Finding time for personal passions not only recharges you but also strengthens your self-worth and self-respect. Working with clients who respect your boundaries allows you to be your best without compromising well-being.
Crafting a Career that Aligns with My Passions
Growing up I never knew what I wanted to be, and I thought there was something wrong with me. Looking back now, it’s because the siloed boxes everyone was put in weren’t resonating with who I truly am. I have carved a career path I never saw growing up in a family of teachers and nurses (professions I deeply respect and admire.) I believe I was attracted to a career in marketing because it combines storytelling, creativity, writing and collaboration. I’ve tried on many hats based on my many interests; from planning large scale events in my hometown of Nashville, TN to being an award willing kickboxing coach and general manager to working in influencer and social media marketing to specializing in podcast growth and operations, I feel lucky to have been able to explore and experience many roles and lifestyles, with the through-line of health and wellness.
I believe because I followed my heart and pursued interests early on, I’ve been able to land in a career that truly reflects my talents, interests, and vision for my most aligned life. I have embraced the fact that I’m a multi-hyphenate and proud that I’ve created a career that utilizes all of my skills and experience. I’ve shown my younger self I don’t have to pick one thing, and it’s okay to explore new avenues and change directions.
I have been able to grow and expand personally and in my career by saying yes even when I was unsure, putting my name in the ring, aligning myself with people who inspire me, and valuing my own worth. I didn’t have confidence that everything would work out when I started freelancing, but I did it anyway. Confidence came over time as I proved to myself, first and foremost, that I was worthy of the opportunities that came my way and the freedom that came with it. To me, success is about living in alignment with your values and goals. The more work I’ve done on myself (through therapy, books, podcasts and nervous system regulation), and the better I have prioritized what truly matters to me, the more at peace and successful I feel.
That being said, I’ve had to learn and take on a lot in working for myself, and confront limiting beliefs and insecurities along the way. I’m constantly evolving, changing, and growing my business. I’ve also learned that you have to stay curious, creative and out of your comfort zone in order to not get stagnant or complacent. When you don’t have a boss to give you feedback or push you to the next level, YOU have to be your own encouraging, driving force. You have to believe in yourself, and keep a clear vision for how you want to grow in mind. That might mean starting a newsletter to hone in your voice, providing digital products or posting on TikTok. It feels more like endless possibilities than a long to-do list. There’s a lot of trial and error involved, but to me, that’s what makes this path so exciting! I try to think of it as I GET to learn new things and wear different hats, versus I HAVE to. This is the gift of betting on myself, and I wouldn’t change the path to get here for anything!
Tips for Freelancers and Entrepreneurs
Stay Curious and Creative
Being your own boss means you have to constantly push yourself to grow. Embrace trial and error, and see it as an opportunity to learn and wear different hats.Invest in Self-Growth
The more you work on yourself, the more aligned your career will feel. Personal growth through therapy, reading, and self-reflection can lead to profound changes in your professional life.Be Your Own Motivator
Without a boss, you’re in charge of pushing yourself. Whether it’s creating content, launching a newsletter, or taking on a new skill, believe in your potential and take charge of your growth.
A Shoutout to My Inspirations
I want to thank my friend and soul sister Zamaria Thompson, who nominated me for the Shoutout LA feature, and constantly inspires me to be my most authentic, creative, vulnerable self. I want to thank Britt Piper who was my first solo client, and has changed my life on a personal and professional level through her belief in me and unwavering trust. She has built a business based on genuine passion and service of others, and is a testament to what can happen when you turn your pain into purpose. All of my clients have given me incredible opportunities to learn, grow and expand my business. I’m forever grateful for their trust in me!
I also have to mention my grandmother, my Vovo, who taught me life is not measured in how much money you make, but in how many lives you touch.
Resources for Personal Growth
Throughout my journey, certain resources have provided grounding and guidance:
Podcasts: Almost 30, What’s the Juice, Pursuit of Wellness, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, Diary of A CEO.
Books: 101 Essays to Change the Way You Think by Brianna Wiest, Empath’s Survival Guide by Judith Orloff, Psalm for the Wild Built by Becky Chambers, The Universe Has Your Back by Gabby Bernstein, Do Nothing by Celeste Headlee.
