HITTING PAUSE

This year, I’ve been fortunate enough to embark on a personal sabbatical, a period of time that has truly enriched my professional journey. Having spent several years working in the same in-house creative department, I realized that I was yearning for a broader, more diverse range of experiences to enhance my portfolio. With careful planning, I made the bold decision to step away from my current role, taking a well-deserved break of six months to explore a variety of creative interests outside of the confines of a computer screen.

In order to make the most of this invaluable time, I began by meticulously outlining my aspirations and ambitions. I was determined to create a harmonious balance between spending quality moments with my beloved family, contributing to local charities through selfless acts of volunteerism, and working diligently to achieve my personal health goals. Additionally, I wanted to seize the opportunity to travel, while also engaging in fulfilling freelance projects that would allow me to further refine my skills. I saw this sabbatical as a stepping stone for growth and professional development. I made it a priority to take relevant courses that would broaden my knowledge and open new doors of opportunity. Additionally, I dedicated time to updating my online portfolio, ensuring that it showcased the full range of my abilities and the evolution of my artistic style. Not one to neglect my personal life, I also took advantage of this hiatus to tackle long-overdue home improvement projects and indulge in some much-needed reading. The chance to catch up on literature that had been collecting dust on my shelves was nothing short of cathartic, allowing me to escape to different worlds and expand my creative horizons.

Looking back, I cannot express enough gratitude for the opportunities this sabbatical bestowed upon me. It truly served as a transformative turning point in my life, benefiting not just myself but my family as well. It provided a crucial reset, allowing me to uncover my true purpose and contemplate how I can fulfill it by reframing my approach to my creative career journey in the ever-evolving industry. With renewed energy and fresh perspectives, I am excited to embark on the next chapter, fueled by the invaluable experiences and growth gained during this period of exploration.