…:*Drumroll*:…. Yesterday, I told you I had one more goal for 2019. That goal is to start my own business, and work for myself for at least the entire year (and hopefully, for the rest of my life)!
It’s official, I’ve started my business, The Bitter Lemon! I’m working full-time for myself, as a Digital Strategist, or as I’m also calling it, CEO of my Life!
About two weeks ago, I decided to take the plunge and venture out on my own. No more 9-5. No more packed lunches. No more staff meetings.
Truthfully, it’s something I’ve thought about for a very long time. I actually grew up watching my dad do it – it was a difficult path, but he did it, and he always said he’d never work a traditional job again.
For the most part, I’ve had a 9-5 job since I graduated college in 2007. That’s what we’re all supposed to do, right?
But, I’ve always struggled in 9-5 jobs. No matter how many free snacks, beanbag chairs, or PTO days, something about it just doesn’t jive with my soul.
In 2018, I really grabbed life by the neck, and what better time than now to reach for my ultimate dream of doing what I love: write, edit, blog, social media, and digital marketing?
Don’t get me wrong, it’s a little terrifying going out on my own. I’ve already had some pretty colorful nightmares – including one where I willingly JUMPED into shark-infested waters. No joke!
After all, I am the one that manages me, my clients, my work, and my pay. I have to hustle, face some fears and really put myself out there as an experienced professional with serious drive.
Not having a steady paycheck is also worrisome. I’ve always lived paycheck-to-paycheck, and in the name of transparency, I took the plunge without much of a savings.
Yes, it would have been really smart of me to wait until I had six-months’ worth of pay saved up… but, I’ve also realized in these two weeks that there’s really never going to be an ideal time, or enough money, or the perfect situation – you just have to do it.
And the thing is, I know I can do it. I have 11 years of professional experience behind me, and I’m passionate about what I do. I want to use my digital marketing skills to help others reach their business goals.
During my professional career, I’ve worked with some huge brands and helped them improve and expand their digital presence. I’ve taught hundreds of students how to create and maintain a blog from scratch. I’ve had international clients and have increased website traffic by more than 20% with a single blog post.
I take pride in what I do, and I finally get to create that path for myself, and for my clients.
Aside from having a 9-5, I’ve always maintained a side hustle of being a freelance editor and social media manager for clients around the world. I have also always taught my blogging courses at universities – and those are still around!
Now, because I’m working completely for myself, I can dedicate even more time to my clients, and can take on additional projects. I can also use my time to grow professionally, take courses, and go to networking events. I already have a few new clients and am attending a webinar today!
These last two weeks, I’ve been working some (in my pajamas), but have mostly been focusing on getting things set up. I already had a small home office, but it needed organizing and I needed a few new supplies (like a new office chair). I added a pink lava lamp to my desk, which is rather soothing, and have been enjoying being about three feet from my coffee maker.
I also realized I needed the basics – like business cards (check!) and a place where potential clients can see what types of services I offer (check it out here):
- Copywriting & Editing
- Blogging
- Social Media
- Custom Graphics
- Search Engine Optimization
- Email Marketing
- Online Reputation Management
- Consulting
I know you all are my blog readers, but you guys know me the most aside from my friends and family! So, if you or anyone you know could use any of my services – even if it’s just a small project – I would very much appreciate the referral!
As a blog reader, you can still expect the same content right here from me. Actually, you might be seeing more of it, since I’ve got a little more time to write!
I am already planning more great content for 2019, more book reviews from Blanche’s Book Club, recipes from cookbooks I got for Christmas, and general life thoughts. I will likely also write about being a business owner, and what it’s like working for myself.
As it is the start of a new year, I want to also continue to use this space as a place to encourage any of you to live the life you’ve dreamed of – whether it’s starting a business or trying a new restaurant down the road – do whatever it is.
Taking a risk is scary, but nothing is worth living a life that doesn’t make you feel genuinely happy and fulfilled.
It is my hope that through my digital marketing work and this blog, I can make the online space more about genuine connection, even if only in the small corners I manage.
Cheers to 2019, my friends! Let’s do this!
All of my contact information is on my Hire page, but you can always leave a comment, email me at holly@thebitterlemon.com, and follow me on Instagram and Twitter @Orangejulius7
The Bitter Lemon 