9 Comments
Jul 28, 2020Liked by Katie Hawkins-Gaar, Rebecca Coates

Thanks so much for this. I really needed to hear it. As soon as I'm back on my feet with a new job, I'll subscribe, I promise. :) I'm so glad that you listened to your heart.

Expand full comment
author

Janet, that is so sweet. Thank you! Good luck with the job search. I'm sure you're going through the cycle right now! xo

Expand full comment
Jul 28, 2020Liked by Katie Hawkins-Gaar, Rebecca Coates

Thanks so much for your honesty here, Katie. Holding space for your own grief is deeply powerful, especially in this landscape of self-denial and overwork, and I'm inspired by your choice! If everyone honored their own needs in this way, I believe we'd live in a kinder, more compassionate and interconnected society.

I also left my successful corporate career at the end of 2017, and while it was for very different reasons on the surface, it was essentially the same: To listen to myself. Though I've also struggled since in some traditional, "success"-related ways, I've also grown creatively and found a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment.

Thanks for the camaraderie on that -- it was validating to hear it is working out, for lack of a better word, for someone else -- and for sharing your story here.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Lauren! The past few years have taught me a lot about redefining what success means to me and (trying to) care less about what others might think of my choices. I'm so glad you listened to yourself. It's not always easy!

Expand full comment

Thank you for this Katie! This letter helps me a lot!It reminds me that it's not so lonely outside of my head and there are/have been others in a similar situation too.

Expand full comment
author

I’m so glad it was helpful! Sending you love as you navigate your own grief journey.

Expand full comment

it about duality: you can't know who you are until you know who you aren't

Expand full comment

So true, well said.

Expand full comment