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2023, the year that changed everything for me: From being able to work 1 hour a week to becoming a freelancer in digital marketing.

By
Linda Jager
July 25, 2024
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Have you ever taken the time to reflect on how happy you really are? Do you feel like you’re constantly running with no direction? How satisfied are you with your job, hobbies, home friends etc? Are you living your life for yourself or for the expectations of others? 

These are some questions that I have asked myself over the course of last year.

In this article I want to take you through my personal journey from being able to work just 1 hour a week to becoming a freelancer. Allow me to take you with me on my exciting ride of professionalization and personal growth. My goal is to inspire you and show you that everything is possible; as long as you set your mind to it. I know like no other that changing your life around may seem like a mountain too high. You probably don’t believe in the possibility, but it is precisely in those moments of doubt and setback that often lies the potential for transformation.

Unexpected turns, self-discovery, and empowerment

My 2023 started with an unexpected twist, a tipping point that turned my life by 180 degrees. I had been living a hectic existence for as long as I can remember. I tried to be at multiple places at once, had an overflowing agenda and was hardly ever at home. I was running on empty without realizing until a car accident forced me to take a major step back. Starting with working just an hour a week my reintegration and road to recovery began. As I slowly started working 24 hours per week again, I realized that my passion and energy no longer laid with supporting others in healthcare and it was not until August 2023 that I dared to really make up my mind. And with that the inexhaustible urge for change and growth awoke. In recent years I have only worked in healthcare and why would I want to do anything else? Why would I break free from the known?  I’m someone who is analytical and I like clarity and a structured life but, I’m fortunate enough to also be an incredibly curious person. However, the decision was made to close the department where I worked, which forced me to make the following choice: go along with the changes and let someone decide for me OR choose my own path. 

Going along with change meant that I ended up working in a different department, still in healthcare. This didn't appeal to me at all. Choosing my own path has been on my mind for some time. During the time I was able to work on a limited basis, the thought of starting my own business became more and more sparkling. The desire to manage my own time, be responsible for my work and work with inspiring clients became increasingly stronger. In recent years I also missed being creative, writing, and doing 'online' crafts, which I had always done since I was young. In September 2023 my path crossed that of Jet van Wijk and the Laptop Lifestyle Master Program. This meeting turned out to open a gateway to a new world of possibilities. Prior to this meeting, I had previously tried to develop my online skills. However, at the time I was unable to stay consistent and master these skills properly.

Laptop Lifestyle Master Program - LLMP

My previous attempts to independently learn online skills were fraught with challenges. Consistency proved to be a stumbling block, and I struggled with properly acquiring the necessary knowledge. I lacked the structured guidance and support I needed to reach my full potential. 

It was only after I came into contact with Jet van Wijk and the Laptop Lifestyle Master Plan program that everything fell into place.The program not only provided concrete steps for building my own business, but also inspired me to believe in the power of my own vision and capabilities. During the program, a coach was a big help. She was always there to answer questions, keeping me motivated. Her support and feedback were crucial in getting through challenges, giving me confidence. Having a dedicated coach made learning easier and contributed to my success in the program.

Studio Linda: A leap into Entrepreneurship and self-belief in 2024

I was determined and believed in myself so I finally took a leap of faith. I left my permanent job and greeted the new year (2024) as owner of Studio Linda. Working with clients who inspire me, being able to manage my own time and enjoying the freedom I have always strived for have now become a reality. I look ahead with optimism in the coming years. Launching my own business demands a significant investment of time, dedication, and numerous sacrifices. Nevertheless, I find it worthwhile. Why not choose to start your own business  and continually invest in yourself? The upcoming years are dedicated to ongoing self-investment, expanding my skills, and setting ambitious goals. Manifestation will play a key role in supporting me on this journey. 

One last word… 

My story is not an exception, but rather a reminder of the enormously potential that lies within each of us. It is an invitation to you, yes you, to consider what dreams and desires lie dormant within you. Sometimes it's the most challenging times that push us to discover our inner strength and forge our own path. So, if you ever wonder if it is possible to change your life, I hope that my story might convince you.  Because if, despite setbacks and doubts, I could transform my life into something I'm proud of, then I believe with all my heart that you can too. Be open to new possibilities, embrace change and dare to believe in the power that lies within you. The journey to your own '2023' can be the start of an incredible transformation. I wish you the best of luck. You got this!