Freelancing: 2 Years In

In what seems like a blink of an eye, another year has flown by. As you may have noticed, things look a little different around here. To help kick off entry into my third year of self-employment, I am extremely thrilled to share my new site, name, and brand with you. Meet AKvertise.

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Over the last few days, the #FirstSevenJobs hashtag began trending on Facebook and Twitter and as I read through exciting and unique roles that others have had, it got me reminiscing and evaluating my own past. From hot air balloon chase crew member Kane Jamison, to paper warehouse clerk Pamela Lund, spiral ham slicer and glazer Damon Gochneaur, sales associate Rhea Drysdale, lifeguard Karianne Stinson, hip hop DJ Joe Youngblood, horse stall cleaner John Doherty, and many more, it’s fascinating to learn more about the employment beginnings of others and to see where they currently are in their careers. As I enjoyed perusing these lists that friends shared, it got me thinking in more detail about where I began, where I had been, where I am now, what I learned along the way, and where I strive to be. Every experience we have at a job leaves an imprint on who we become and the work that we do. In hindsight, it’s quite remarkable how certain exposures and responsibilities on the job formed future skill sets and provided a better understanding for business and other people as a whole.

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It’s that time of the year when giving thanks and giving back seem to be popular discussion topics. While it is wonderful, why not make it a year-round occurrence? There are an incredible amount of opportunities out there that need someone like you to occasionally lend a hand. If you’re looking for a way to give back to an organization or cause you support, there are many things you can do. If the role doesn’t exist, create it.

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And just like that, it’s been one whole revolution around the sun. Until this past year, I didn’t know exactly what I was capable of and as I sit here writing this, gently smiling, I’m beginning to realize. That doubt I previously had, began fading some time between now and last fall. Adding on to previous experiences, I’ve learned an incredible amount about marketing, advertising, business as a whole, finances, behaviors, other people, and myself, more so than ever before. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunities, experiences, lessons, and relationships that flourished since taking this leap. And as you may recall, the first few months were a wobbly roller-coaster and I’m pleased to say, I think that coaster is headed on the right track. While it’s an ever evolving ride, I look forward to what the next turn brings.

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Time sure flies, doesn’t it? It feels as though I just began freelancing full time yesterday, and here we are now, six months later. As I write that, it truly sets in. I’ve often thought about how much time has passed since November, but writing it out makes it real. These last six month have been nothing short of fulfilling work related bliss. During Steve Jobs’ frequently quoted Stanford commencement address back in 2005, he spoke words that have resonated with me since; don’t settle until you are doing what you love. I’ve made it this far and I am excited to see what the next half of the year has in store.

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After 3.5 years, I am wrapping up my time at Third Door Media. Wow, writing and saying it aloud still feels quite surreal and bittersweet. It has been an incredible ride and I will be forever grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such a talented, creative, and driven team. This definitely isn’t goodbye; it’s see you around, my TDM family.

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