From Burnout to Business: Why Quitting My Job Was the Best Thing I Ever Did

Two years ago, I finally made the call to leave full time work. I was made redundant from my job at the time — a job that, to be honest, was doing a real number on my mental health. I wasn’t just unhappy; I was burnt out, stuck, and needed out. Fast forward to today, and I’m running a growing marketing agency and juggling multiple projects under Her Umbrella Media. It’s been a wild ride, full of ups and downs, but looking back, it’s the best decision I ever made.

Leaving the “security” of a regular paycheck wasn’t just about wanting to be my own boss or work in pajamas (though, let’s be real, that’s a perk). I knew I could do more, help more people, and make a real impact — but I quickly learned that running a business isn’t all about good intentions. For a while, I was trying to help everyone for free, thinking it’d come back around eventually. Spoiler: it doesn’t work that way. You can’t keep the lights on with exposure and pats on the back.

So, I had to get real and figure out how to balance making a difference and paying my bills. That’s when I put the magazines (Her Umbrella Magazine and Hummock Magazine) on the back burner to build up my marketing agency. It was a tough call, but I knew if I got the business solid, I could come back to the magazines with a stronger foundation. That “pause” felt like forever, but it’s what made all the difference in the long run.

Now, working from home sounds like a dream, right? No commute, no annoying office small talk. But there’s a flip side: it can get really lonely. The walls start closing in, and suddenly, your only co-worker is the plant you keep forgetting to water. I hit that point where I’d go to coffee shops just to be around people, craving any kind of human interaction.

That’s why I launched Co-Working Days. Because I’m not the only one feeling this way. Women running their businesses from home need connection too. So, I thought, why not create a space where we can all come together, work alongside each other, and have a laugh (or a good venting session) over coffee? It’s been amazing to see other women show up and share their journeys, proving that working solo doesn’t have to mean being isolated.

Looking back over these two years, I’ve learned more about myself, my limits, and what I really want my business to stand for. It’s not just about making a profit (though, yes, that’s essential). It’s about building a community where women feel supported, inspired, and heard. And if that means wearing a million hats and making some sacrifices along the way, I’m here for it.

What’s next? Well, I’ve got big plans for the magazines and the marketing agency — it’s all about helping more women’s voices be heard and building a space where we lift each other up. Running a business isn’t always glamorous, and there are definitely days where I question my sanity. But the wins — whether it’s launching a new issue of the magazine, hosting a packed-out co-working day, or helping a client get to the next level — make it all worth it.

So here’s to the journey: the highs, the lows, the stress-induced chocolate binges, and all the lessons learned. If you’re on a similar path, know you’re not alone. And hey, if you ever need a place to connect, brainstorm, or just share a coffee — I’ve got a seat with your name on it.

Let’s do this!