Is now the right time to start over?
Now that we've recorded 62 episodes (!!!) of Hello Monday, we're starting to see patterns in the questions people ask about work. We've heard a lot about how to renegotiate work with new types of employers. We've discussed when to prioritize our careers, and when a job's primary function is just to pay the bills. And we continue to explore self-knowledge, savvy judgment and strength of character.
So, hello Thursdays! This summer, I'm going to draw from our archives to share episodes on the themes to which we keep returning. If you've been with us for a while, you'll recognize these voices and stories. If you're just joining us, maybe you'll find inspiration for your own journey.
I'll start by pointing you to a trio of conversation with people who abandoned the "safe" path to pursue their passions. In every case, the decision to leave the safety and security of a day job that paid the bills and even offered some prestige was tough. But at some point, the prospect of abandoning a creative calling felt tougher.
This is a theme we'll continue to explore on Hello Monday. So, if you know of great stories about starting over, or if you're planning to do it yourself, let us know in the comments.
LISA CONGDON
Lisa started her career in education. Funny enough, I knew her then. We worked together at an education reform nonprofit. Lisa didn't start drawing until she was in her 30s. Now, she's a successful artist, working from her studios in Portland, OR. Here's the episode on Apple, or you can listen directly below:
JESSICA POWELL
Running communications at Google, Jessica was one of the most powerful voices in PR. It was a job so many people might want. But did she? That question led her to try something entirely different. It's hard to leave a prestigious job, but prestige is not enough. Here's the episode on Apple, or you can listen directly below:
ROBBI BEHR AND MATTHEW SWANSON
Robbi and Matthew dreamed of writing and illustrating books. They left city life and certain employment, moved into an barn, and forged new careers. A decade later, their sweat and tears are paying off. Here's the episode on Apple, or listen directly below:
PS: After you've listened to the shows, check out these artists' work. It'll inspire you....
Board Member of Global Goodwill Ambassadors for Human Rights and Peace Professional Designer with Top Voice at LinkedIn. Excellent at accessorizing a room, does her own seasonal Decorating , did custom work see Profile.
4yOnly you will know when it’s the time to start over, be it of necessity or choice.😃🙏❤️🇨🇦🌻
CEO& Founder ,Editor of “ The Sassy”,Advocate for Aging Well and Wealthy,Wellness As A Solution "WaaS"©/ Credit Union Evangelist , Driver of revenue by partnering with innovative technology providers.
4yTotally on point with the perspective of starting over and leaving the bricks and mortar behind. After more then 3 decades of being a captive corporate professional I decided in my 60’s to leave my “ blankey” and start my own business. I tell people as streets are being filled with joblessness and layouts, that if I can start a business closer to Full retirement age, then many younger professionals have a huge advantage. I just started my “ big sister” concept in hopes that my safe advice can help first timers prepare for their first interview and landing their first job. Thank you for “ Hello Monday”!!!
Office Administrator (Church)
4yI have passed the 50 yr old mark and I am done with working to pay bills. Children have grown up to be in their twenties so I now suddenly went into baking nostalgic cookies. Never have I imagine this is a good way to de-stress and it makes me happy to see my customers enjoying these nostalgic cookies. I feel a great sense of achievement......
Training Consultant QHSES Trainer Coach Assessor
4yThanks for sharing. It’s a great talk.
Head of Marketing Operations, Devices and Services, EMEA at Google
4yHi Jessi, My partner Mark Robson left his corporate job at the end of last year to finally pursue his passion for design. It’s been a fun journey since then but 2020’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. His interest in design started early, but he ended up studying German and Politics at university. After that he flew round the world with BA for several years, but his passion always stayed with him. After BA he spent 15 years at Apple in internal comms and then in December last year, he left to follow his dream. Being his own boss was always on the cards. His parents owned various small businesses when he grew up and paved the way. Not every day is easy being your own boss but then which job is? He kicked off his presentation and web design studio in May and it’s going well so far. While established businesses are going bust, many new small businesses are starting and it makes us hopeful for the future. There’s a lot more to his journey that led him to where he is today. If you’d like to know more check out his insta account: @sixmileshigh