New direction and major change ahead

I don't talk a lot about my place of work on Phydeaux, for all the right reasons (e.g., not wanting to publicize my work life on the interwebs). You all know, though, that I took a month medical leave two months ago, which turned into two months of leave. I returned to work today, but what you may not know yet is that this is my last week at my place of work! I've given notice and this week is about wrapping things up.

I have really mixed feelings. I've really really loved my workplace. It's gorgeous, I get to use my skills and experience in healthcare administration and financial/administrative management, and I get to be part of something huge (cutting edge medicine and educating tomorrow's medical leaders).

But, I'm tired. My body and soul are both crying out for a break (hence, the leave). Increasingly, during the past year, I was continually making decisions not in favor of my business, Phydeaux, in order to focus on continual deadlines at work. I've also had to turn away a number of incredible opportunities this year, for the same reason.

And that's not a bad reason! In a world of finite hours governed by the laws of space, time and quantum mechanics (geek alert!), something has to give!

I started my leave beyond tired, with nothing left to give to anyone, least of all myself.

I ended my leave healthier, happier and so much more energetic. And, with a rebuilt belief in myself and my capabilities, allowing me to make this scary - while thrilling - decision.

So, yes, I "quit my day job." However, I'm by no means at a point of sustaining myself entirely via my business (just in case any readers are fantasizing about doing the same).

I'm doing this with equal parts of excitement and terror. YES, I know our economic realities! Hello, I manage finance for a living! I'm only able to do this, perhaps for a finite period, due to resources from my departure, which I will be stretching as long as possible, while massively cutting expenses. Along with part time remote contract work, a little consulting, plus some writing and editing

I suspect I'll return to my employer down the road, likely in a different area/position. It's definitely a difficult place to leave. :)

This week will be insane - it already is - between wrapping up my job, cleaning out 12 years of files and belongings, trying not to weep as I say goodbye to colleagues and work friends who became family so quickly, along with trying to pay at least a little attention to Phydeaux.

During my leave, with more attention and care paid to my business, I started seeing the possibilities as I reworked my business plan, ran several models and scenarios, and started lining up new opportunities. I have lots of new ideas that you'll see next year and I'm entirely confident that this can work.

So, I may post a few things this week, but will be back in action next week! I wish you all every success in your own ventures - enjoy the holiday season!