This may sound like a silly, head-scratcher question, but it’s one that I had to sit down and ask myself one day. Before I decided to chase my entrepreneurial dreams and start my own business, I was working a 9-5 job in an office setting.
Just as a disclaimer, I’m not going to sit here and bash those who work for an agency or company that punches the time-clock. There’s no right or wrong path for the career you choose – just drive down the road that is best suited for your goals and needs.
Now back to this interesting question.
I had to ask myself, “Does your job work for you?” Basically, are you happy with your job, and is it a good fit for your passion? Will you be able to say that you love waking up, and coming into the office five years from now?
After pondering on this, I took a look at the second part of the question, “Do you work for your job?” Of course, you are working for your job, but what this really means in context is, is your job just something you go in and do because that’s what expected? Is it just a routine of you putting in the hours like Fred Flintstone…same work outfit, different day?
This question, which opened the door to what seemed like thousands of other questions, kept me up at night. I knew it was time for change. I wanted to share this story with you, because as an entrepreneur, a business owner, and just a gal with big dreams, I think it’s important to share stories like these that will push you toward success. Community over competition…that’s my motto, always.
It was 8 short months ago that I launched my own business for web design, photography, and other marketing solutions. I’ve always had this mindset of “why drain yourself working for someone else’s dream when you can build your own?” When I reminded myself of what I’m capable of, I realized I had the answer to that complex question all along. I needed to find what worked for me.
I now have the opportunity to enhance the way I work and connect with clients in a way that I could not do before. As a business owner, I can set the rules and customize my workflow. I get to be the face behind my business, and I truly enjoy building my brand image 24/7, 365 days of the year…not just 9-5. Now that’s passion!
Something I’ve learned about generating leads and building my brand, is that you must give the public YOU. I could only share a fraction of myself when working with an agency. I’m a creative person, and I always have been. Now, I can personalize everything and my clients can actually get to know me. This helps build trust and successful work-client relationships.
With a pineapple as my logo and inspiration for sweet and spiky marketing, I’ve used this fruit to be creative within my brand. I even have clients send me emails or mention pineapple décor they have found that brought me to their minds. Talk about successful marketing for my brand! Because I have connected with my clients on such a personable level, it not only helps me thrive as a business, but also to discover great solutions that are going to project their individual businesses forward.
Going full circle here, I can 100% say that my job works for me. The feeling I get when I hear praises from clients that love my work is something that is absolutely unmatched.
My story goes into so much more detail, but I wanted to share the importance of asking yourself, “Does my job work for me or do I work for my job?” This question is a great way to reflect on your career & personal goals.
If you do decide work within an agency, make sure that you identify workplaces that are strong and guided by leaders, not toxic environments run by office bosses.
As you continue on your journey, remember these motivational tips:
Know your value and don’t settle for less.
Be yourself, always.
Learn everyday on ways to improve.
Surround yourself with positive people and experiences.
Believe in yourself.
Number four is a big one to remember. I’m grateful for organizations like AWC, where I have the opportunity to meet and connect with other empowering women. Identify what motivates you and search for more of that. Find your passion and light that flame. Be the amazing woman you are, and discover a job that works for YOU!
About the Author
Taylor Godfrey is a Certified Wix Expert Web Designer and owner of Hala Kahiki Studios: Sweet & Spiky Marketing. She helps business owners to showcase their brand image in a creative & professional way through high quality web design, photography, social media & more.
