http://preferredmode.com/tag/bushwick/ I woke up on the brave side of the bed this month and joined my husband in claiming a rather daunting career status– self-starter. I’ve never thought of starting my own business, but upon marrying an entreprenuer (through-and-through), Nick has instilled some passion and a little confidence in me to create something bigger than myself.
Part of starting a new chapter in life is knowing when to turn the page on current fulfilling chapters. It’s been an inner battle these last 3-4 months debating on whether to quit my part-time job and all means of consistency for that matter. Something about not having a constant stream of income and benefits (from either partner) is a little frightening. However, something that Nick said to me at the beginning of this year really stuck:
You need to know when to say no to the “almost right” opportunity. Though it may be good, and worthy of your time, it may not be the opportunity that will really fulfill your needs and inspire creativity and growth.
Saying “no” has always been a challenge for me. Saying no to good things is even more challenging. However, watching my husband start and run his own company (from the garage, up) I’m constantly learning important qualities people exercise when starting something new:
- They are quick to forgive themselves when mistakes are made. That’s the problem with starting something new–IT’S NEW, YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT THE HECK YOU’RE GETTING INTO. **I definitely beat myself up over little mistakes, but I know in the bigger scheme of things, forgiveness is much more helpful than personal guilt trips and pity parties.
- Learn to say no. It is a powerful phrase that can save you time and sanity.
- Take the leap. Jumping in with both feet is much more effective than dabbling with one foot in and one foot out.
- DON’t STRESS the small stuff.
- Come up with a routine. It’s important to keep a rigorous schedule so as not to waste precious daylight. (I’m still working on this aspect, but it makes a world of a difference when I wake up with a purpose and plan.)
- When it stops becoming fun, maybe reconsider how you’re going about things.
- Being nice + hard work goes a very long way.
Though I’m unsure of how we’ll actually survive the next few months, I (officially!) put my two weeks notice in and set aside all other commitments that would take away from my new pressing job: film. I’ve spent hours and hours these last few weeks finalizing my website and establishing a brand I am proud to own. It’s been far from easy, but I am learning more about myself and the overwhelming task of bighting off more than I can chew. Fortunately, film is starting to take off, and I must say, it feels nice to be starting something that is being appreciated by others — even if it’s just a handful of people.
You are such an inspiration! And so talented. Tyson is leaving me for a work trip in a couple weeks. You and Rachel should come over for a girls night one of the nights 🙂 miss you!
You are so wise! And I’m so excited for you. Your work is beautiful. I’m so excited to see all the art you create and memories you help savor. Huzzah to new adventures. As always, I have so much confidence in you!
I agree with everything that Brittany said!! 😀 Whoot Whoot!!
You’ll do great, Chels! I’m pumped for you! I want to see the website you’ve been working on!
You are awesome, Chels! You’re so brave and talented and this will most definitely be a great adventure for you. I have no doubt that you will succeed in anything you set your mind to. Go get ’em!
Thank you, thank you sweet friends.