In the wake of the global pandemic, a seismic shift known as the Great Resignation swept across industries. Employees around the world began reevaluating their work-life balance, career goals, and overall satisfaction. I found myself caught in this wave, ultimately deciding to leave my full-time job to pursue a path that resonated more deeply with my personal and professional aspirations.
The pandemic served as a stark reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of prioritizing what truly matters. Remote work blurred the lines between personal and professional life, leading many, including myself, to reassess how we spent our time. I realized that the daily grind was leaving little room for personal growth or creativity—two aspects I deeply value.
Having always been passionate about design and the outdoors, I yearned to create something meaningful. While stable, my full-time job offered limited opportunities for creative expression and too much focus on company politics. I wanted to work with a variety of clients and infuse my love for nature into tangible, impactful designs. Leaving my job allowed me to channel my energy into developing a business that aligned with my passions, offering a sense of fulfillment that my previous role couldn’t provide.
Equipped with a Masters in Business Administration (MBA), I felt prepared to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. The idea of building something from the ground up, using my skills to craft unique marketing collateral and fun illustrations was exhilarating. The transition wasn’t just about leaving a job; it was about embracing the opportunity to grow as a business owner and a creative professional.
The traditional 9-to-5 structure often left me drained, with little time for the outdoor activities that rejuvenated my spirit. Stepping away from my full-time job was a conscious choice to prioritize my mental health and avoid the pitfalls of company politics. This new journey allows me to set my own pace and focus on both my business and personal well-being, ensuring a healthier work-life balance. By maintaining boundaries and safeguarding my mental health, I can fully engage in the activities that matter most to me.
The decision to leave a secure job wasn’t without its challenges, especially with a young child now in the picture. The uncertainty of income and the responsibility of running a business can be daunting. However, the rewards of pursuing a path that genuinely excites me far outweighed the risks. The support from fellow entrepreneurs and the satisfaction of seeing my designs resonate with others has been incredibly motivating.
The Great Resignation isn’t just a trend; it’s a testament to the shifting values of the modern workforce. For me, it was the catalyst for embarking on a journey that combines my love for nature, design, and entrepreneurship. As I continue to navigate this new chapter, I’m reminded that sometimes, the greatest opportunities arise from the willingness to take bold steps toward a more fulfilling future.
Hello[at]RebeccaLeighDesigns[dot]com
It has been a dream to start my own business. It is a lot of work, but it is worth it to have flexibility with my kids and have creative freedom. I’d love support from you — you don’t need to hire me or purchase a product! A donation shows you care! You can select to do a recurring donation or one time donation.
