I’ve been so excited about Girl Crush for so long, but I had no idea the impact it would have on my life.
I knew that Andie and Emily of the awesome Assemble Gallery & Studio would be wonderful hosts, and that there would be a beautiful space for photo ops.
I knew there would be creative women who would share inspiring stories, as well as some of their fears.
I knew there would be beautiful cupcakes and, most likely, striped straws.
I knew we would make art. I just never knew that the direction of my piece would be based on the waves of emotion I felt after being inspired and supported by the amazing women at this event.
This was one of the most inspiring days I’ve had so far. The feeling of being surrounded by so many creative, talented, and supportive women should be bottled and sold for a very high price. When we weren’t eating cupcakes or making art, we were getting to know each other by sharing stories of our successes and our fears. Many of us were at a crossroads, trying to figure out where to go next, trying to learn how to quiet the negative noise in our brains that holds us back from reaching out for what we want. I think I finally was able to tell it to shut up.
When I got back from Alt Summit, I was so inspired. I felt like I found my people. I knew that I wanted to be involved in this creative world full-time, but I wasn’t sure how to do it just yet. I have so many things that I love and want to do. I love blogging. I love designing, writing, and taking photographs for my own blog, as well as the one I created and write for my client Bella Umbrella. I love designing greeting cards. I’m in super mad love with social media. I have a background in marketing. You see where I’m going with this?
Yesterday I set my end date for my full-time day job. June 29th will be my last day. After that, I’m giving myself six months to make Inward Facing Girl work as my sole business. I’ll be blogging for myself and others. I’ll be doing social media for myself and others. I’ll be doing market research. I’ll be taking photographs. I’ll be doing graphic design. I’ll be writing. I may even make some art. And I’ll be sharing this journey with you (and asking you for referrals!) every step of the way.
Thank you so much, Danielle and Tif, Sandra, all the lovely ladies at Girl Crush Seattle (including Marisa whose story was also key in giving me a little push), and my family and friends who gave me the guts to take this leap.
I’m totally nervous, but totally excited. I guess that’s what it’s supposed to feel like, right? You can follow my journey as I take this leap in my new column, What’s Next?.
P.S. If you missed Girl Crush Seattle, guess what? There are still a few spots left in Girl Crush Portland! Seriously, you guys…this day changed my life.