Remember how two months ago I wrote that I wanted to leave higher education? Well, I really am now.
This morning, I gave notice at my full-time day job. My last day will be November 18th.
Apart from my part-time work for RESOLVE of New England, I currently do not have another job lined up. For a variety of reasons, I simply had to leave. Even with our dicey economy, I had to take the risk. I had to finally free up those 40 hours a week to spend time working on the things that are important to me…
To do the work that’s important for this community.
So that’s why I’m starting my own business.
Well, I’ll be honest. That’s not the only reason I’m starting my own business. Part of it has to do with insurance, which I can buy cheaper through my local Chamber of Commerce. Massachusetts mandates health insurance for all residents, so I can either buy it through the state’s resource, the Mass Health Connector, or go through an avenue like my Chamber of Commerce. I’m opting for the latter, because it’s definitely cheaper.
But I’ve been thinking of developing my own business for a while now, and the timing seems to be lining up. Details on said business will be forthcoming soon, because trust me, I’m going to be calling on you to help me spread the word!
But for right now, as nerve-wracking as this all is…
I’m really happy with this decision. I feel genuinely good about it.
I know what’s ahead won’t be easy, but I feel like I have such a huge weight off my shoulders, like I’ve finally given myself the permission to go out and do the work I’m supposed to.
After the college major switch, the hemming and hawing applying for full-time work right out of college, the crappy cold calling temp jobs, and my at first rewarding and then draining run of positions in higher ed… I feel like I finally know what I want to be when I grow up.
And now is my opportunity to shine.
Edited to add this “could it be more perfectly suited to this moment” clip that appeared in my Facebook feed today of Kevin Spacey appearing on The Actor’s Studio talking about success and pursuing your talents:
Remember when I said I was feeling good about this?
You bet your sweep bippy I feel pretty friggin’ fantastic about all of this ahead of me!
Congratulations, Keiko! I’m sure the future holds very, very bright things and I can’t wait to hear what you do next!
YAY!!!
Once again, here you are inspiring me … why am I applying for more jobs when I should be creating my own gig? *sigh* … maybe you’ll let me work for you for a while, until N. starts napping long enough for me to think straight. 🙂
I am SO proud of you! I think we need to eat cake and toast you on November 18th.
Good luck Keiko!
Wow wow wow!! You go girl!!
SQUEEEE! What fantabulous news! I’m so excited for you! And proud. And inspired. You are going to do such amazing things. I can’t wait to witness it all!
SHINE ON!
Wow… that takes a lot of guts, but if I know anything about you, you’ve got the drive to make it work and be successful. How exciting! 😀
How exciting! Best of luck in your new endeavours.
Best of luck to you Keiko! Congrats on going after your dreams!
Woo hoo! Such exciting news. I know you will shine bright no matter what you’re doing.
Congrats!
Glad to hear you are going for your dreams! I wish you the best of luck!
This is awesome, Keiko! Though it’s nerve-wracking now, I’m sure you will do well with the new venture. Good luck!
Good for you! We should all learn to follow our dreams.
Sincerely wishing you all the best of luck with your new endeavors! I can’t wait to hear more about this business adventure and I just know you’ll do amazing things. Good for you for following your heart and your dreams, Keiko!