3 Years Self-Employed

Today marks the three year anniversary of the day I put in my two weeks notice at my day job to pursue JAA full-time. In a way it feels like the time has flown by so fast, yet it also feels like I’ve been working for myself for ages. I still remember how it felt to drive away on the last day of my old job so clearly… the sense of excitement, fear, and disbelief. It was one of the scariest things I have ever done, but I am so fucking thankful that I took that leap of faith.

The last three years have been inspiring, challenging, and extremely character-building. I would not be where I am today, or even WHO I am today, without the support of so many of you. You have not only helped me learn how to run a business, but how to come into my OWN.

As a thank you, enjoy 20% off all Etsy shop orders with the code 3YEARS. (Offer valid 8.21.15 only, and cannot be combined with any other discount.)

I’m starting year three with not just a sale, but a vacation! My Etsy shop will be closed from August 27th to September 14th so I can spend time traveling. And because, quite frankly, life is too short!

I think small business owners have a common fear of taking time off… especially when you don’t have someone to run the business while you’re gone. There’s a fear you will lose money, or your SEO ranking, or potential customers… And you know what? You will. (I will.) One of the biggest lessons I have learned as a business owner, is that that is OK. While it’s easy to feel like I need to be “on”, selling, promoting, growing, all the time… everyone needs a break. Everyone needs time for themselves. And you know what, as soon as my customers found out I was taking time off, they congratulated me! “Well-deserved!” They get it. They will be there when I get back. I hope. (You will, right? Don’t make me re-think this.)

So, my friend, peace the fuck out, I’m going to Italy! See you in September!