Looking Back on 2008
I have spent the last week making sure that I devise a concrete plan for making this year one of the most productive ever. However, there is no way to move forward without figuring out where I have been. It is a daunting task but Michelle over at The Integrated Mother has made me take stock and figure out just where I am and where I want to be by the end of this year.
She asks a few question on here blog and I will answer them below.
What choices did you make? The most important choice that I made was to leave my teaching job to persue my dream of starting my own web design company. Unfortunately, I also chose to put the business before my family and while I thought staying home would be a great way to bond with them, my round-the-clock focus on my business created a stressful situation much like when I was teaching.
What were you thinking? I was thinking that I was tired of being asked to put other children ahead of my own while my daughter spent 11 hours a day at a sitter. I was also thinking that for someone with a MST, I was getting a short-end of the salary stick because I was busting my butt and we were still struggling to make ends meet. Unfortunately, I was NOT thinking about how to generate business and while it has been good, I need to focus more on promoting myself.
Who did you learn from? I learned from so many. I learned from Mrs. Flinger who talked to me about setting strict guidelines via contracts so that I never get screwed out of money again. I learned from a great graphic designer named Count who taught me to demand payment up-front even when I worry that I will lose business. The AA Moms Disney Crew taught me that facing my fears and putting myself out there is not as scary as I had originally thought. My husband taught me that no matter how hard I may fall, I am never a disappointment to those who love me.
Loved this post! In 2006 I left my “corporate” ministry job with a large organization to work from home for a smaller ministry as a remote employee. It has made such a difference in our family. Way to go girl! This is your year.
Thank you. And good for you too. I is very scary to make that leap, but I know that it was best for us. Thanks for commenting.
It’s always a great idea to reflect on how far we’ve come and looking forward to what the future holds. You’re an amazing mom, wife and friend. Know that you’re LOVED and there’s so much in store for you life. Be sure to NOT SLEEP and miss out on it
I really enjoyed our convo the other day too!
I think you’re doing a great job sweetie. I know there have been tough times, but your talent is obvious. Here’s to 2009 being your best year ever!
First, congratulations!! Your first year in business can have its challenges, but there are so many who never take the step and you did – that alone says a lot. I can’t wait to see what’s you’ll do in 2009!
What a good post! I love your design work and I wish you continued success. It is always scary to try something new but without trying how will we ever know?
Good for you for taking stock and deciding to make some changes. Here’s to an awesome 2009 for all of us!