I Cry a Lot, But I Am So Productive

If you know me at all, you might be surprised to learn that I am a perfectionist.

But not by the world’s definition.

You won’t find my car spotless, and my planner isn’t meticulously filled in (unless it happens to be my hyperfixation of the month). But that doesn’t mean I don’t hold myself to impossibly high standards. If I don’t meet my own expectations, I see it as failure.

The Moment Everything Changed

So, imagine my disappointment when I was let go from a job I loved—a company that had been my world for five years.

Nothing prepares you for someone telling you that you’re not good enough. But if it ever happens, make sure you have a community that reminds you your worth isn’t found in your work.

I am more than what a company says I am.

I have value because the One who values me says I do.

I am worth more than the salary they no longer wanted to pay me.

I am worthy because He was willing to pay the price for me.

I am good enough because He says I am good enough.

Finding Purpose in the Unexpected

Two weeks ago, when I lost my job, it felt like my world had shattered. For the first time in my children’s lives, I wouldn’t be at school with them every day. For the first time since moving to Atlanta, I wouldn’t be contributing financially to my family. And for the first time since my oldest was born, I’d be home—alone.

Weird. And yet… an opportunity.

I’ve been designing things since Myspace taught me to code. In high school, I made t-shirt designs that no one asked for. I created Jonas Brothers fan art (lol). In college, I designed costumes for our sorority’s All University Sing act. After college, I made spirit shirts for the school I worked at. Throughout my career, I found every possible excuse to create. Anything. Everything.

I just love to design. And I would have happily done it all day if it paid the bills.

Taking the Leap: Starting My Etsy Shop

Check out my Etsy shop!

That’s why, a few months ago, I finally listened to everyone telling me to just go for it—and I opened an Etsy shop. (And a blog)

It was amazing. I could create whatever I wanted and sell it! The only problem? Time. I woke up at 4:30 or 5 a.m. to work until the kids woke up at 6. Then, after bedtime, I worked from 7:30 to 10—sometimes later.

It was exhausting. But I loved it.

So, when I was let go, the only way to view it was as a gift.

What This New Chapter Looks Like

Now, I have time while the kids are at school to design.

I have time to run—without waking up at an ungodly hour.

I have time to clean my house—without the kids undoing everything while demanding a million snacks.

I have time to be with the Lord.

And I have time to be present with my husband and kids.

Turning Setbacks into Opportunities

When I lost my job, I thought it would destroy me.

But it hasn’t.

Instead, I’ve been given this incredible opportunity to create. To do what I love. To pursue a dream I never dared to consider.

So, when life hands you a severance package, make some lemonade (spiked, preferably) and accept it. Look around at the gift you’ve been given—this new opportunity—and see where it takes you.

Have you ever faced an unexpected career change? How did you navigate it? Let’s chat in the comments!

xoxo,
A