Many of you may have read that I have taken that all important (and equally terrifying) leap of faith and started up my own marketing company here in Aberdeen. Hand on heart, it’s not something I ever thought I would do. I had a pretty successful career in marketing management that I had worked incredibly hard for over the last decade. I had even been so organised as to set myself a position and salary goal that I wanted to reach before we tried for baby number 2. All was on track and going well. However, my world came tumbling down 2 weeks into my maternity leave when I was made redundant from a sector that is in a rather heavy decline at the moment in Aberdeen. Let’s just say, timing wasn’t great when it comes to taking stock and assessing the possibilities.
We decided as a family that I would allow myself to enjoy baby MM first…career choice could wait. As the end of my SMP was fast approaching I started to do my sums and get pretty tough on myself. When I took commuting costs and the cost of childcare off my take home pay, I started to weigh up my options…was there anything I could do freelance or blogging related that would give me at least that amount?
Reality was, I had never intended to return to a full time position. I had wanted to tailor my hours more around school times when I returned, so I could spend more time with the girls…an option that was no longer there should I go back into a similar position. So I decided to take that leap of faith.
I had already been blogging for just over 2 years and with my marketing experience and qualifications, it made sense to set up on my own. It’s a terrifying prospect, but a journey that should give me the work life balance I never ever thought possible. I’m hoping it’s one of those weird twists of fate…what is it they say ‘what’s for you, won’t go past you.? Fingers crossed!
So if you ever find yourself in a similar position…when you think your chips are down…allow yourself to stick your head up for just a moment and remember what you have to offer and see if it’s something you can do on your own. Speak to your family and friends, people you may know who have set up in the past. Take all the advice you can get and listen to what everyone around you has to say, especially those you can trust to be 100% honest with you. By doing this, it stripped away any fear I had to take that first step. Because if you can take that first step…who knows where you’ll go.
8 Comments
These things are always meant to be, I started my own estate agency 11 years ago when I was 30 after a fall out with a company I was working with, I was already self enplyed under their umberella and we had a clash of opinion on running a business so I had booked 2 weeks off anyway for a holiday during the summer break and just decided it’s now or never and in 2 weeks I was fully functional from home and within 6 weeks had a fully kitted out high street office, it was the best thing I did although very scary being single parent with only my income which was zero for a while! But now semi retired at 41 so was worth the pain to put me where I am now
Good luck with your business and well done for taking the plunge it is pretty scary but one I’m sure you won’t regret. Emma xx
Oh wow…That’s amazing! Well done you and getting to reap the rewards at such a young age…dream come true! xx
Best of luck to you! Aberdeen’s so shaky just now, isn’t it? I know so many people who’ve been through redundancy in the past couple of years – but that’s all the more reason why the companies keeping on going/starting up in this city need really good marketing.
It’s been hellish! I’m just thankful that I can easily set up in my line of work. Not so easy for others. Thank you xx
I definitely think that you are brave lady, I did the same myself 2 years ago and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I never take it for granted and who knows, I may have to go back to work in an office one day in years to come, so in the meantime I am enjoying every minute. Good luck with your new venture, I have no doubt you will be great. xx
Thanks Katie! I think if I can get at least through the school years then I’ll consider it a blessing. I may be bending your ear on a thing or two ? xx
Aww honey I am so proud of you. I’m sure it was a huge decision and one not to be taken lightly. You are brave and I am sure you will be enjoying the balance and your own business very soon. Good luck my long legged friend x
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