In the 1990s I remember wearing suits with bow tie blouses and matching high heels to work. The blazers had shoulder pads and I had a collection of colorful tights.

I worked at a large financial institution in my first professional job after college. I wanted to climb the corporate ladder and was sold on the idea of getting a promotion as fast as possible.

As I interacted with more executives and learned about the hours they worked and the amount of responsibility they had, I was less thrilled with chasing the promotions that were a sign of success.

And as I continued in my career and found myself friends with the security guards that came to work at 9 pm, I realized that my work hours were ridiculous and if I wanted kids, I needed to make a change.

So, I shifted my focus. I didn’t chase the promotions and the ever-increasing responsibility.

I had kids and still got the promotions and increased responsibility. I said yes to all the corporate stuff and wondered why I wasn’t happy. I worked long hours on things that I didn’t find meaningful.

And today I am looking forward to this week off. My daughter is home from college and my son doesn’t have school this week either. We are looking forward to watching movies, going out to eat, and the house is filled with laughter.

Shifting from being an employee to being a consultant and having my own business was the best career decision I ever made. When you are resourceful, know when to ask for help, and willing to take risks, the rewards can be amazing.

I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and for my life today.

If you’re thinking about starting a business, do it. Start with it as a side gig and as you learn and grow your skills be willing to let go of what you thought was going to lead to a successful life.

The journey isn’t a straight line. Say “yes” to yourself and to creating a life that you look forward to living.

#grateful #startabusiness #sayyes #doitafraid