Okay, before I get into it, that title may be a little dramatic and I am 100p aware of how “fragile millennial snowflake” it reads, but what I’m about to share with you is the best decision I’ve ever made and proof that taking risks and prioritizing your wellbeing is worth it.
A little background:
In 2013, I graduated from the Missouri School of Journalism all wide eyed and ready to conquer the ad agency world. My first job was at my dream agency where I got to work on some amazing brands and new business opportunities. Although I was faced with A LOT of challenges that required me to go above and beyond, I was eager to prove my worth and help my agency/clients/teammates succeed. For almost 4 years, I worked 10 – 20 hour days and weekends, lunch happened as often as the solar eclipse and I was answering texts/calls at all times of the day and night. Needless to say, sleep and the gym had become a foreign concept as I had put my health on the back burner. My friends and family rarely saw me because when I wasn’t working, I just wanted to lay in bed watching Netflix until it shamed me by asking if I was still watching.
However, as much as the job required it, shame on me for letting that happen.
I recognized the issue (especially when I got engaged and had to start planning a wedding) and realized I was ready for a change. I started interviewing with excitement for new learning opportunities and the clear intention of finding a better work life balance. I accepted a position at another agency that paid well and agreed to said work life balance.
SPOILER ALERT: Said work life balance did not exist.
I worked at the new agency for a month, but realized that it was a position that would give me less of a work life balance than I had previously. Rather than sticking it out, I knew for my health, I needed to prioritize myself.
I quit my job after a month with no plans other than focusing on my health and my personal priorities.
Would I recommend you quit your job cold turkey with no plans – absolutely not. However, if you’re jeopardizing your health, relationships, and/or happiness to a point that is taking a toll on your wellbeing, then maybe I’d consider it.
Since I quit, I was been able to get to the gym on a regular basis, make and eat healthy meals, spend time with loved ones and mainly focus on the things that matter to me. I’ve spent time reflecting on what makes me happy, what my boundaries are, and what my needs and desires are – all things I had never really outlined. I’m excited for the next phase of my career as I transition into a role that fits my criteria. And because Rome wasn’t built in a day and bills are a thing, I’m freelancing in between.
I’m so thankful for the unwavering support I’ve received from my family, friends and mentors throughout this experience.
I know this isn’t something everyone has the luxury of doing, so below are some tips and lessons I’ve learned so far:
1. Set boundaries:
My biggest regret is not setting boundaries from the get-go. As a woman in my twenties, I always thought “I’m younger and have to put my time in (no matter the cost)” or “I don’t have kids to take care of so I have to pick up the slack for those who do” or “I’m failing if I say no”. Looking back, (pardon my French) but DA FUQ?! Do I need to work hard, yes. Do I deserve less balance than anyone else, no. And let me tell you, me learning to say no was the most empowering and successful thing I’ve ever done. Highly recommend it.
2. Trust your gut, even if it seems risky:
Nine times out of ten, your gut is pointing you in the right direction. This applies to anything in life. It’s crazy what happens when you believe in yourself.
3. Have a Plan B fund:
It’s the morning after fund when life puts you in some funky places. Have some savings so if something goes unplanned, you aren’t in a pinch if you need to make a risky move. Does this mean never splurging on yourself – ABSOLUTELY NOT. But maybe swap the $13 salad for lunch with some homemade greens and put that money in your piggy bank.
4. Don’t care what people think:
I think this is a lesson everyone learns in their life, someway or another. I’m a people pleaser by nature, so this was a big lesson for me. Caring what others think at your own detriment is toxic. At the end of the day, you’re the one who has to live with your decisions, so prioritize your thinking accordingly. You’ll never regret it.
5. Embrace the unknown:
It’s easy to run away from things when there isn’t a plan in place, but sometimes the best things come from the unknown. Whether it’s work, fitness, travel or relationships, you’ll likely find that exploring uncharted territories are worth it.
Moral of the story: Life is too short. Prioritize your wellbeing!
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