From Layoff to Lifelong Passion: My Journey of Reinvention

When I got laid off from my first full-time job in 2012, I had just turned 26 and was devastated. I had spent years dreaming of being a writer, and after graduating from college in Washington, DC, in 2007, I secured a position at a congressional paper. My journey began with soliciting op-eds from senators and congressmen, eventually evolving into writing pieces about DC neighborhoods and covering events that showcased the elegant Washingtonians gracing society pages.

However, the unexpected layoff forced me to reevaluate my career path. I had all but given up on writing, resigning myself to the idea that it would become a mere hobby rather than my career. But life has a way of redirecting us when we least expect it.

Embracing New Opportunities

In the months following my layoff, I made a pivotal decision: I would return to school for my master’s degree in education. This choice opened new doors, allowing me to explore various avenues while pursuing my studies. To supplement my income, I began teaching piano lessons. With 12 years of piano training under my belt, I was eager to share my knowledge and passion with others.

As I progressed through my two-year program at Penn State’s World Campus, I also ventured into freelance writing. The thrill of being my own boss was intoxicating. I could choose projects that sparked my interest and witness the growth of my piano students over the years, rather than just for a single school year.

The Birth of a Triad Career

By 2015, I had completed my degree and added a third gig to my repertoire: portrait photography. My love for capturing moments had always been there, and I began to leverage social media and word-of-mouth referrals to build a client base. I created a website and soon found myself busy every fall and spring, capturing memories for families and friends.

With about 30 piano students, a steady stream of writing clients, and a growing portfolio of photography customers, I realized that I didn’t want a traditional desk job or a classroom teaching position. I was hooked on the idea of crafting a career that combined my passions for writing, teaching, and photography.

A Decade of Diverse Work

For the past ten years, I have successfully juggled these three jobs. While the freelance lifestyle has its ups and downs, it has largely worked well for me. I quickly learned that many of my piano students would be out of town during the summer, leading to a dip in income. To counter this, I took on summer camp counselor roles at local day camps, supplementing my earnings while enjoying the company of kids.

My early writing endeavors led to consistent freelance opportunities with reputable publications. The determination to be my own boss has instilled in me the grit and resilience necessary to thrive in this multifaceted career. My workload fluctuates seasonally, with the fall and spring being particularly busy, often resembling a traditional 40-hour workweek, while summer and winter typically see a reduction to 25-30 hours.

The Challenges of Freelancing

Freelancing can be stressful, but it has significantly improved my mental health. I no longer have to worry about commuting to an office or dealing with difficult coworkers. In 2022, I made the decision to move back to Pittsburgh, where I grew up. This transition had its pros and cons, such as being closer to family and enjoying a lower cost of living, which allowed my freelance income to stretch further.

Over the years, I have had the joy of watching my piano students grow from young children into high school graduates. Since relocating, I have been rebuilding my client base for both piano lessons and photography, while my writing has continued to thrive.

Finding Balance and Fulfillment

My monthly take-home pay varies between $2,000 to $4,000, fluctuating based on the season and the projects I undertake. While I have sacrificed many weekends for work, the rewards have been worth it. My husband has been incredibly supportive of my choices, and together, we have navigated this unconventional lifestyle for the past decade.

In conclusion, my journey from a layoff to a fulfilling career has taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability. Embracing new opportunities and pursuing my passions has not only shaped my professional life but has also enriched my personal life. I encourage anyone facing similar challenges to remain open to change and to explore the paths that ignite their passions. You never know where they might lead you.