Stop. Breathe. Take Stock. Repeat As Necessary.

My 30th birthday was one of the best days of my life. It also turned out to be a pivotal moment.

Between going for a morning run, having my Facebook page and phone inundated with well wishes, working an event for my employer, blowing out candles on two cakes, enjoying a quick massage, dining outside by candlelight, being serenaded with Happy Birthday twice and hanging out with industry friends (some of the coolest people I’ve ever met) deep into the next morning, I took stock of my life and didn’t necessarily like what I saw.

Don’t get me wrong; the day itself was amazing. But after pausing a moment, I finally admitted to myself that I wasn’t happy. That can be one of the hardest things to admit, especially to yourself. In the past few years, I had become a workaholic and had little time for family and friends, some that I had known for years.

While some people excel in the corporate rat race, I was suffocating. I missed the nature I had grown up in despite living minutes from a beautiful series of metro parks. I was trying to cram working out and somewhat healthy meals into what little time I had outside of the office and my commute. I love to cook but had no desire to do so at 9 or 10pm after coming home from the office. I knew I needed a change.

After much planning and thinking, I decided to open my own business. It wasn’t an easy decision, but ultimately, I knew it would allow me to align my personal priorities with making a living. It certainly hasn’t been easy (and it’s still early), but it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m excited about the future and building my business while enjoying nature, making time for those important to me and having a more flexible schedule.

Similar to your personal life, it’s also helpful to stop and take stock of your business or career as well. It can be easy to veer off course and start heading down a path you don’t like. Perhaps you’ve moved away from your sweet spot, have some clients who drag you down or you don’t even recognize your marketing anymore. Whatever it is, remember to stop and take a deep breath every now and then. It can really help you stay on track, whatever your track to a happy life is.

I would love to hear about your moments of taking stock of your personal life or business. How did you discover that you weren’t where you were supposed to be? What made you decide to take a risk to correct course? [And if you’re looking for any marketing or branding assistance, I’d love to help!]

Cheers (and keep smiling),
Jaime