Leaving it all behind

I’ve never done this before, writing a blog that is. I always kind of looked at it as a weird way to put your thoughts down and no-one would actually care about what I had to say anyway. But after going through this freelance journey for the past couple of years, I honestly feel like there is real value in me doing this and telling a little of my story and how leaving the Corporate “matrix” (thanks Simon Squibb) has empowered me to another level and I’m living a happy and fulfilled life.

For years, I toiled away in the corporate world, climbing up the ladder, only to realize that success on someone else's terms was not what I truly desired. It was then that I made the daring decision to leave it all behind and pursue my passion in photography and videography.

The transition was not an easy one. There were numerous challenges to overcome, both financially and emotionally. Walking away from stable pay, generous benefits, and a structured routine was a daunting prospect. Fear, doubt, and uncertainty haunted my thoughts, but deep down, I knew that staying in a job that did not bring me joy would be a greater regret than any temporary struggle I might face.

One of the biggest challenges I encountered was the financial strain. Suddenly, I found myself without a steady income and had to make peace with the fact that my bank account would shrink significantly. It required careful budgeting, sacrifices, and a willingness to take on part-time gigs to keep my passion alive. In those early days, I discovered the true meaning of hustle, working odd hours and taking on any project that came my way.

But it wasn't just the financial aspect that made the transition difficult; the emotional rollercoaster was equally intense. Leaving behind the comfort and familiarity of my corporate life meant stepping into the unknown. It meant facing criticism from well-meaning friends and family who couldn't understand why I would give up a seemingly successful career. Self-doubt often crept in, whispering incessantly about the risks I was taking and the possibility of failure.

Yet, despite these struggles, I persisted. I immersed myself in photography and videography, constantly seeking new opportunities to learn and grow. I devoured books, enrolled in workshops, and connected with like-minded individuals who shared my passion. Slowly but surely, my skills began to improve, and my confidence soared.

Building a sustainable business in the creative industry is no small feat. It takes time, patience, and a relentless drive. There were moments when I felt discouraged, questioning if leaving the corporate world was a mistake. But every time those doubts arose, my passion for photography and videography reignited the fire within me. It reminded me why I had made the decision in the first place - to live a life that aligned with my true purpose.

Today, I can proudly say that my decision to leave the corporate world behind was one of the best choices I ever made. I now lead a life that is not defined by the constraints of someone else's expectations. I have the freedom to choose my projects, work with individuals who inspire me, and capture images of the world through my lens - and get paid to do it.

Of course, the journey is far from over, and challenges still arise. But the difference now is that I face them with an unwavering determination and a belief in my ability to overcome. The struggles I faced financially and emotionally have taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of staying true to myself.

So, if you find yourself yearning for a life filled with passion and purpose, I encourage you to take a leap of faith. Embrace the challenges that come your way and use them as catalysts for personal growth. It might be a difficult road, but the fulfillment and joy that await you on the other side are well worth the struggles. Trust me, I speak from experience.

Remember, life is too short to spend it doing something that doesn't ignite your soul. Chase your passions, embrace the unknown, and create a life that reflects your truest self. The journey may not always be easy, but it will be worth it.

I’ll be writing more on this topic, some of the Top 5 most helpful things I did involving your immediate team around you, motivation etc etc.

Until then. Follow your passions. Make a plan. Leave it all behind.

Peace.

Adam