Working for Myself—& Why I Love It
I have always known that I was meant to work for myself in some way, in some manner. Some people thrive in structured 9-to-5 jobs with predictable hours and clear career ladders, but that was never my path. My mind, my creativity, and my lifestyle demand something different—freedom, flexibility, challenge, and the ability to chase my passions wherever they lead me. And while self-employment certainly does come with its challenges, I wouldn't trade it. Here’s why I love it and why it might just be the right path for you too.
Flexible Hours, Limitless Creativity
I do my best work at night. My most creative ideas spark when the world is quiet, and while I often wake up early, I cherish the ability to sleep in when I need to. Working for myself allows me to honor my natural rhythm instead of fighting it. Whether it’s a late-night study session, an all-nighter fueled by a creative breakthrough, or an early morning spent sipping coffee and working in the peace of dawn, I get to set the pace of my life. That kind of freedom is priceless to me.
A Different Measure of Success
For me, success has never been just about money. Don’t get me wrong—financial stability is très important. But I’m not chasing a traditional idea of wealth. I’m working toward a life I love, a life that aligns with my values and dreams. My ultimate goal? To own a run-down Victorian manor on a sprawling piece of land where I can live out my *Practical Magic* dreams—gardening, creating, and building a space filled with love and warmth. If that means taking a pay cut in exchange for a more fulfilling life, so be it. My success isn’t measured by a paycheck; it’s measured by the joy I find in my work and the impact I have on others.
That being said, I do believe in financial freedom—not just for myself but for a child in the future. I want to create a life where they have the capability to financially take care of themselves, whether that’s through carefully planned stocks, funds, or trusts that release at key points in their life or having land that can provide them what they need. Society often values a dollar over a great bargain, but I believe in something deeper: the ability to build wealth that ensures security while still prioritizing happiness. I want land, I want to cultivate a small farm setup, and I want to live a life rooted in sustainability, joy, intelligence, and experience. To me, those things define success far more than any paycheck from a company that could easily replace me ever could.
Learning Through Experience
Self-employment has allowed me to explore so many different passions. I worked as a social media influencer and content creator while having a part-time receptionist gig. Later I funded my self employment with a full-time plus ungodly amounts of overtime as a photographer. I’ve been a pet sitter, dog walker, nanny, ghostwriter, resume editor, editor for bloggers, photog/editor, content analyst, social media manager, while also working different shifts at cafes as a barista. I’m now a cafe manager and consultant while finishing up my degree. Each role has contributed to my growth in different ways. Pet sitting introduced me to a woman with an incredible indoor and outdoor garden, deepening my love for plants. Being a barista gave me the skills to help my mother open her own cafe. Spending 90-hour weeks in a warehouse at 19 funded my photography equipment and my studies in social media marketing, giving me the tools to build my own brand. Every job was a stepping stone, leading me to where I am now—a place of independence, knowledge, and self-trust.
A Future That’s Mine to Build
Even as I continue my studies to become a therapist, I know that this career will also offer me the flexibility I crave. One day, I’ll be able to set my own hours, work with clients in a way that feels aligned with my values, and still nurture my love for social media, plants, art, and coffee. I’m building a life where I don’t have to choose between my passions—I get to weave them all together into something uniquely mine.
I also know that my social media skills will come in handy if I ever decide to establish my own private practice. Marketing and visibility are crucial in today’s world, and having a strong online presence can help me connect with clients who truly resonate with my approach. While my long-term goal is to have my own practice, focusing primarily on art therapy, I’ve also felt an increasing pull toward behavioral psychology, particularly in working with inmates. There is something deeply compelling about understanding the human mind in extreme environments and offering people a chance to heal, even in the most challenging circumstances. Whether through art, therapy, or psychology, I know that my work will always be rooted in making a meaningful impact.
For Those Who Don’t Fit the 9-to-5 Mold
If you’re someone who struggles with traditional jobs, who dreams of a life filled with creative freedom and meaningful work, know that it is possible. It takes patience, hard work, and the willingness to adapt, but carving out your own path is worth it. There is no one right way to build a career, no single definition of success. If your soul craves independence, if you thrive in unconventional spaces, if your passions are many and varied—lean into that.
The world needs more people who live authentically, who build lives that reflect their true selves. I’m one of them, and you can be too.
