Hey there! I’m excited to share my journey from the fast-paced world of corporate tech to the serene, fulfilling life of a small business owner in a small town. If you’ve ever felt the urge to ditch the hustle and bustle for something more meaningful, this story might just resonate with you.
The Corporate Grind
I spent years climbing the corporate ladder in the tech industry. The job was demanding, the hours were long, travel was frequent, and the stress was constant. Sure, the paycheque was nice, but I found myself questioning if it was worth sacrificing my happiness and peace of mind. After almost 2 decades in that industry I was fortunate enough ( I think) to get packaged out and my journey of 'what's next' began. Then Covid hit 3 months later...
Making the Leap
The decision to leave the corporate world and money wasn’t easy, but it was necessary for my well being. We sold our house, packed up, and moved to a charming small town, Markdale Ontario, two hours away. It was a leap of faith, but I felt an overwhelming sense of freedom and excitement about what lay ahead.
Starting Fresh
Settling into the new home home was a refreshing change. It was a big change for everyone, including new schools for the kids, making new friends, long commutes for my husband for a few days of the week when he couldn't work from home. The pace of life however became slower, the people friendlier, and the surroundings absolutely beautiful. I decided to start a small retail business from my house, something I had always dreamed of but never had the time or energy to pursue. I always said my dream job would be something that lets me craft and paint and create everyday and try something different. This new venture allowed me to tap into my creativity and explore my passions.
The Joy of Creativity
Running my own business has been incredibly rewarding and stressful as well. I get to create and curate products that I love, connect with customers on a personal level, and enjoy the satisfaction of building something from the ground up. Each day brings new opportunities to innovate and grow, and I find immense joy in every aspect of it. Of course it also needs to make money and with a slow economy I have to constantly look for ways to innovate and expand but I have always loved problem solving, it was one of my favourite things back in my corporate days.
Embracing Slow Living
Slow Living is a movement where people decide to live a more balanced, meaningful life through slowing things down and appreciating both the world around them and what they have.
One of the biggest perks of my new life is the ability to focus on slow living. I wake up to the sound of birds chirping instead and a rushing river of an alarm clock, take a leisurely walk across the bridge of the river that flows through our property to check on my gardens. I know I'm very fortunate to have this location and opportunity and I stop to breathe in the beautiful place and life we have here. Sometimes it's just the sound of the rushing water, a Cardinal that comes to feed at my bird feeder, or my tomato plants getter bigger everyday. I’m learning to savour the little moments and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
At my retail shop we run workshops that sometimes teach things that can enhance slow living. Slow living doesn't mean you don't want a beautiful and aesthetic environment to live in, it just means you might upcycle a piece of furniture or decor item to fit your needs instead of donating or trashing it for a brand new one. We have classes like visible mending, hand knit blankets and furniture painting...all at the 101 level so anyone can start on their slow living journey.
Slow living doesn't happen overnight and you don't need to quit your job and move to start the journey. For some it could be making an effort to sit and any really savour your morning coffee without your phone, looking out the window. It may be starting with one vegetable grown in a pot on your patio. There are many ways to begin to breathe deeper, and find ways to be grateful and happy with what you have as you work towards all the things that make you truly happy....whatever that may be.
Finding Balance
Transitioning from a high-stress job to a peaceful, balanced life has been a journey of self-discovery. I've learned that success isn’t just about money and status; it’s about doing what you love, living authentically, and finding joy in the simple things. My new business has given me a sense of purpose and fulfillment my Ikigai ( for those that have heard of the Japanese term) that I never experienced in the corporate world.
Thanks for reading my story. Here’s to finding happiness and fulfillment in the paths less traveled on your journey to slower living!
Jennifer