A little about me
There’s no one thing. I’m not just a mom or a content creator or former finance executive or a cancer patient. Each chapter is actually its own book. But I’ve been around the block enough to not bs, to be real, to still be fun, to find balance despite the crappy parts of life. I’ve been running @puzzlesbringmepiece on TT for awhile and now breaking off the product review portion of it to its own line called Worth it When. Follow along do the ride. #introduction #aboutme #contentcreation #startingover #newbusiness
It's hard to believe it's been three years since I officially "stopped formally working." Walking away from a 20-year career as a finance executive, especially one with an international NGO, felt monumental. For so long, my identity was closely tied to that title, those responsibilities, and the fast-paced corporate world. The decision wasn't made lightly, but I felt a deep pull for something more, something different. I envisioned a life with more flexibility, more presence for my two kids and our pup-pup, and the freedom to explore passions beyond balance sheets. The initial transition wasn't a fairy tale, though. There were moments of doubt, feeling adrift without the structure of a traditional job, and wondering if I'd made the right choice. My days, once filled with global travel and high-stakes decisions, were suddenly open-ended. It took time to redefine my purpose and establish new routines. I realized that 'starting over' isn't a single event, but a continuous process of learning and adapting. Over these three years, life threw some significant curveballs. Navigating a breast cancer journey was profoundly challenging, reminding me of the fragility and preciousness of every moment. It forced me to slow down, to prioritize well-being, and to truly embrace the "balance despite the crappy parts of life" philosophy I now champion. My surgery pillow became a symbol of resilience, a tangible reminder of what I'd overcome. Paradoxically, these challenges also fueled a new creative energy. I'd been making puzzling content for years on @puzzlesbringmepiece, and this period gave me the space to think about how I could evolve it. The idea for "Worth it When" began to take shape. I wanted to create a platform that genuinely helped people make informed decisions about products, based on real experiences, focusing on value and practicality. It was about treating content creation as a real business, with integrity at its core. Building "Worth it When" has been an incredible journey of discovery. I've learned so much about entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and connecting with an audience on a deeper level. It’s not just about reviewing a tube of lip oil or a new gadget; it’s about sharing authentic insight and helping others find things that truly add value to their lives. The past three years have proven that reinvention is possible at any stage, even when life throws the unexpected your way. If you’re considering a big change after years in a particular field, my biggest advice is to trust your gut, prepare for the unexpected, and lean into the process of building your 'new book,' chapter by chapter. It's often worth it when you take that leap.