I have worked since my college graduation. I loved the profession, I landed on, it has also opened doors to meet new people and opportunities that molded my present self. My first job lasted seven years, I loved it so much I didn’t want to leave. I should say I still have the sepanx where I constantly contact my colleagues and offer my help. I really loved the job I had there.
My second job was fun, challenging, and new. Although it pays the bills, it’d had eaten my life in such a way I become numb and negative with my surroundings. The circle got smaller and I felt it was not healthy. I will go home late at night, give up weekends, and report early again, only to feel empty. Don’t blame me, I had good friends in the office, we share the same sentiments and I am the weak one to leave.
The second office taught me how to survive the past paced environment while concealing emotions daily. I learned a lot and I am grateful for the lessons.
The wake up call
It was just one night, I am wide awake, crying, questioning myself, what I really want in life. I got up, took a post it, wrote what I really want, took my laptop and finally wrote my resignation letter.
I did not apply for a new job nor have an emergency fund in my bank account.
THE PROS
- I have more time for myself and my husband. I can do my wifey duties without being in a hurry or being stuck in traffic.
- I have more sleep time.
- I can finally workout and focus on my health. I can prep myself for motherhood.
- I finally came back to blogging.
- I kick-started my business and help with the family business. I can cater to more clients, not just the companies I was employed before.
- I now have time to attend workshops and networking events for my personal development.
- I am at peace.
- Opportunities came in one by one from former bosses, vendors, and friends.
THE CONS
- No regular income. Yes, my husband has a job, but it was different when you have own money to give or spend for yourself.
- Jobs are now, no work, no pay. If you don’t get up in the morning and do something, you will not have the funds to pay for the bills.
- There is a temptation to slack off and sleep all day.
LEARNINGS
- If you plan to leave the corporate world to pursue freelancing or entrepreneurship, have a fund to sustain yourself for the next six months at least. I am lucky to live with my in-laws and they supported my decision, food and shelter is not a major problem.
- Map out your plans after quitting. I did this. I really want to go back blogging, coördinate events, and be an ultimate housewife (I love chores).
- Do not delay. I have waited months to finally decide to quit my job. I am happy I did it.
- Trust God. It is true that he will never abandon you. Whenever my bank account is near zero balance, I’ll receive job offers for me to have an income.
- Live one day at a time. My mind is restless and my schedule is still jam-packed despite leaving my 10-7 job.
- Choose your battles wisely. There will be opportunities here and there as some will ask you to be part of the projects. Study them carefully, know when to say no.
- Have discipline. Do not slack off and finish your tasks as scheduled.
- Be frugal. Now that you don’t have a regular income stop spending like you have money for tomorrow. Think as if you only have this much. I used to hoard when I shop, now I just buy what I need.
I have so much to learn in the next coming months. I cannot say now that I did the right thing, but I am happy. I still have to adjust the lifestyle, organize my tasks from income generating tasks and hobby, save money for emergencies, and a lot more. It’s a roller coaster journey for sure, but I know it’ll be worth it.
For now, my goal is:
- Boost my event planning business
- Grow my blog and share useful/inspirational entries
- Lose weight to prepare for my pregnancy
- Accomplish my tasks and be productive with my three new affiliations.
- Start freelancing and come back writing content.
Achieving the things above in the next coming months, I should say, quitting my day job is the best decision I made.
P.S. Thank you to all the people who are helping me now, offering me a job, trusting me, and telling I became more beautiful having enough sleep. LOL I love you all! Without your support, this first step will never come true. For others, I am open for business.