Digital marketing, purpose-driven, personal brand, authenticity, personal growth, my story
In 2016, I found myself in the midst of a successful corporate career on Madison Avenue in NYC. At the time, I believed that this job would be the ultimate highlight of my professional career, and for a while, it truly was.
Living and working in the vibrant city of New York had always been a dream of mine. So, when I finally turned that dream into a reality, I couldn't contain my excitement. My office was located on the 6th floor of a beautiful building with breathtaking views of the city.
Not only was the environment beautiful, but it was inspiring and my work challenged me. And my team was a great group of people that were enjoyable to work with. My boss, in particular, was one of the most easygoing and genuinely kind individuals I’ve met. He was a huge foodie and would often treat us to exquisite meals at trendy restaurants, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendship among us. I met some of my closest friends here.
However, as time went on, I began to sense a shift within myself. I realized that the passion and fulfillment I once felt from my work had started to fade. I found myself merely going through the motions. The long hours and subway commute were taking a toll on my well-being, and there was little time for the things I loved.
The realization hit me hard: I was burnt out and desperately needed a change. I craved freedom and autonomy, yearning to become my own boss and design my life on my terms.
It was during this period of self-reflection that I made a life-altering decision: I took on a solo trip to Portugal. Little did I know that this journey would become the catalyst for transformation.
During my time in Portugal, surrounded by the beauty of unfamiliar landscapes and culture, I rediscovered the joy of exploration and self-discovery. Travel has a way of opening your heart and mind and helping you see a new perspective. The experience gave me clarity around my life and my work, igniting a newfound sense of freedom, purpose, passion and joy. I felt more joy in the week I spent in Portugal, than I had felt in a long time.
Inspired by this revelation, I made the bold choice to leave the corporate world and pursue my own business. I wanted to create something that would not only bring me personal fulfillment but also allow me to make a positive impact on others. I craved a career that would align with my values and expertise and also provide freedom.
Leaving behind the comfort and stability of my corporate job was undoubtedly a daunting step, but it was one that I knew I had to take to live a life true to myself. With a newfound hope and inspiration, and a clear vision of my purpose, I set out to build a business that would empower and inspire others, just as my solo trip to Portugal had done for me.
Today, as I reflect on my journey, I am grateful for the courage to embrace change and pursue my purpose and work that was meaningful. It was a scary decision, and I had no idea what the outcome would be. But, starting my own business has allowed me to create something that is not only professionally fulfilling but also personally enriching.
If there's one lesson I've learned from my journey, it's that sometimes we need to step outside our comfort zones and take a leap of faith to discover true happiness and purpose. If we aren't careful our lives can run on autopilot and we may not even realize how unhappy we are for some time. But if we remain present and check in with ourselves often, we will sense when change is necessary and we can dig deep to find the courage to step outside our comfort zones knowing there is something better.
Six months later, I launched Alkamye.
Embrace your purpose to grow your business. | Purpose drives pride, performance and profit.
Connect with us here!
I loved reading this blog and can totally relate. Sometimes you just need to take the leap! But, yes, I can see how travel helped give you clarity to pursue your ultimate happiness. So happy for you, Lisa 🖤