Discover the empowering journey of manifesting a dream into reality as a solopreneur. From overcoming self-doubt as a graphic designer to becoming a magazine publisher and photographer, learn how persistence and belief shaped a life of creative freedom.
I remember the early mornings, stuck in traffic on my way to Emory, watching women jog through their neighborhoods—carefree, unbothered, and moving at their own pace. As I sat in my car, inching my way to work, I would think to myself, One day, I’m going to work from home. One day, I won’t have to make this daily drive.
Back then, I had my hopes set on building my own small business. I didn’t know exactly how it would all come together, but I had a vision. I wanted to create, to design, to tell stories. What I didn’t anticipate was just how difficult it would be to step into that dream.
The Journey Becoming My Own Boss
I faced many challenges—mostly mental. Self-doubt was my biggest battle. I questioned my worth, my skills, and what I should charge. In the beginning, I undercut my pricing just to get clients, convincing myself that exposure was more important than fair compensation. I walked away from too many projects feeling unfulfilled, knowing I had poured my heart into work that didn’t reflect my true value.
Those were the worst times—the times when I wondered if I had made the right choice. It wasn’t just about money; it was about confidence. Did I really have what it took to run my own business? Could I sustain myself without the security of a traditional job?
But something inside me refused to give up. With each project, I grew more confident. I learned to demand what I was worth and to stand by my work with pride. I realized that the right clients—those who truly valued my creativity—would come. And they did.
From Graphic Designer to Publisher
I started as a graphic designer, helping brands come to life through visuals. It was my foundation, the skill set that allowed me to break free from the 9-to-5 grind. But as I evolved, so did my vision.
My passion for storytelling led me to become a magazine publisher, crafting narratives that celebrated people and communities. There was something powerful about creating a platform that gave others a voice. Through publishing, I saw how design and storytelling could merge into something even more meaningful—a way to document history, culture, and entrepreneurship.
Still, I wasn’t done evolving.
Finding My Happy Place
Despite the ups and downs, I’ve finally realized something: I am living the life I once only imagined.
I no longer wake up dreading the workday ahead. I don’t sit in traffic, wishing for a different life. I am living the life I once dreamed about—on my own terms, creating art, and telling stories in ways that are meaningful to me.
It wasn’t an overnight transformation. It took years of self-discovery, trial and error, and overcoming fear. But through faith, persistence, and a deep belief in my dreams, I manifested the life I always wanted.
What I’ve Learned Along the Way
If there’s one thing my journey has taught me, it’s this:
- Your dreams are possible. The life you envision can become your reality—if you believe in it enough to take the first step.
- Self-doubt never fully goes away. Every new chapter comes with uncertainty, but confidence grows the more you push forward.
- Know your worth. Undercharging and undervaluing yourself won’t lead to fulfillment—it will only drain you. The right clients will come.
- Embrace evolution. Your career, passions, and purpose will shift over time. Let them. Growth is a journey, not a destination.
What’s Next?
As I continue building my business and stepping fully into photography, I remind myself that I am exactly where I’m meant to be. The girl who once sat in traffic dreaming of working from home has finally found her happy place.
And if you’re on a similar journey—wondering if you should take that leap, if you’re good enough, if your dreams are even possible—let this be your sign. You are more capable than you think. Start where you are, trust your vision, and never stop evolving.
Because one day, you’ll look back and realize—you manifested the life you always wanted.
