Dream to Reality: How I Quit My Day Job

154 Comments

Photo via g2slp

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way
to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work.
And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.
If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking, and don’t settle.
As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.“
~ Steve Jobs

Ever since I learned about the concept of financial independence five years ago, the seed of a dream had been planted. My dream: Having the freedom to deliberately choose how I spend every day - to have complete freedom of time.

As of last week, my dream became a reality.

I left my job at Amazon to start this new life chapter. I have three goals:

To complete a triathlon
To learn French
To live everyday fully, as if my last

My answer to the question “What do you do?” will now be “I spend fulltime pursuing my passions.”

Personal Story

I had a wonderful job at a phenomenal company. I had flexibility, an understanding boss, and a high paying salary. I loved my job. But after 6 years of expending myself on the job, trying out various professional roles, I felt that I’d grown beyond the fixed positions available at the company.

I’m not going lie, having a lot of money is nice. Money can buy you things, nice things. However, the cliché is true - money cannot buy you happiness, and having it doesn’t mean that you are a successful person. After several years, I realized that the more money I made, the less satisfied I became. Days started to blend into one another, time flew by, and I deeply longed for something with more meaning.

Upon realizing that I was trading my time for money, I started experimenting with various passive income sources. I’ve started and ended businesses, I’ve turned hobbies into professional pursuits, and I’ve tested out investment avenues.

In the end, I’ve learned that it doesn’t matter what you’re doing. As long as you are doing something that expresses your passion, you will excel and you will gain satisfaction. I’ve also learned that starting something from nothing and watching it grow is deeply rewarding.

Through my quest to finding my passion, I discovered blogging as a platform where I can share ideas and lessons learned that are closest to my heart, as a way to serve others. For the first time in my life, I feel that I am living my life purpose.

Words cannot express the joy I feel while writing for Think Simple Now, and the numerous times when feedback from readers has brought me to tears. This just feels right.

I wanted to take this time to say Thank You for being part of this with me, and for helping me realize my dream while stumbling upon my passion.

What Now? Q&A

Q: Now that you’re a pro-blogger, will you be working on your blog fulltime?

A: I don’t view myself as a professional blogger, since in my mind, I love this so much that I would pay money to experience it. Having said that, my main focus will be to follow my heart and do what feels right. There are many things I plan on doing, blogging is just one of them.

The following are a list of things I plan to do and incorporate into my life:

Morning Routine - Establishing a healthy morning routine can be a powerful way to start your day. Mine will include: rising early, drinking plenty of water, exercising, meditation, & reading something inspirational.
Reading - I love to read, but never found that I had enough time to do so. Now’s my chance to ramp through books I’ve always wanted to read. I have a large reading list with new books and old books I plan to re-read. My plan here is to read at least 2-4 books a month. I tend to crack open several books at the same time, so we’ll see how I do. I will be sharing what I’m reading with you all. Check out the section “What I’m Reading Now” along the side bar. I will be updating it as I progress.
Yoga - Learning yoga.
Meditation - Establish a regular daily meditation routine. My plan is to meditate twice a day, between 10-45 minutes each session.
Exercise - I can count the number of times I’ve exercised in the last year on one hand. True story. It’s an area of my life that needs improving for the sake of my long term wellbeing. I randomly picked triathlon as a goal, since it will be a tremendous challenge, and poses as a goal to whip myself into shape.
Public Speaking -I feel a draw towards motivational speaking and life coaching. While I’m not set on becoming a coach or a public speaker, I would like to explore in that direction. I will be joining a local Toastmasters group, and train myself in becoming a more engaging speaker and effective leader.
Travel - My love for traveling comes from a desire to experience cultures that are vastly diverse from my own. Some places on my list are: Mongolia, Arabic China, Bali (Indonesia), Peru and South America, Ethiopia and other African countries. I would also like to live in Paris for several months.
Writing - I will continue to share life lessons I’ve gained, and write about issues that we all experience as humans. My central theme will remain the same: Personal Happiness, Fulfillment, Clarity and Wellbeing.
Personal Blog - Think Simple Now posts have always been in the format of in-depth articles on personal development. As such, I don’t consider it a blog, but rather a free web publication on personal wellbeing. I’ve been toying with the idea of starting a more personal blog called Simply Tina, where I’ll be posting much more liberally and casually. The topics will consist of a larger range of subjects: updates of my progress in this new lifestyle, traveling, business lessons, blogging, passive income, the 4 hour workweek lifestyle, startups, empowering mindsets, and useful resources.(Coming Soon. Subscribe today.)

Q: Holy crap, you quit your job? Tell me more. How are you paying for your expenses?

A: Two years ago, I had set a clear date for when I’d be leaving my job to pursue my passions fulltime. At that time, I only had a small amount of passive income from investments that paid for small bills. So my plan was to save enough money so that I could quit my job to freely pursue my passions fulltime for two years.

I believed (and still believe) that when we are doing that which we are completely passionate about, money will come. The plan was to explore my passions freely, living on my savings. I was confident that before the end of year two, I would be generating income doing what I love, without needing to get a job.

This transition was a difficult one, and was really, really scary initially knowing that I would lose my safety blanket: stable job, regular income, and benefits. But once I got over that initial scare, I realized that I was trapped by social conditioning and social pressure that I needed to get a job. The fear eventually passed with time when I focused on what I wanted: to be location independent and have complete control of my time.

Currently, I have several sources of passive income, but most of my income comes from advertisers, sponsors, and affiliates from ThinkSimpleNow.com. Advertising is the only way I can make the content available for free. If you find the ads annoying, you can use a RSS reader. I do appreciate your understanding and support regarding the ads.

While I am making income through ads, it is not a lot of money, enough to pay for basic necessities. If you’re interested in helping me out, here are several outlets:

Feedback and Suggestions - Drop me an email with topics you’re interested in hearing more on, or let me know what I’ve done right. I’ll also appreciate constructive criticism.
Subscribe to RSS - If you haven’t already please subscribe to my RSS feed, or subscribe via email. (What are RSS Feeds?) The subscriber count is a huge motivator for me. Thank you!
Donations - If you’ve found the content useful, you can send donations via paypal. I eat a large number of avocados every week, and these donations go towards buying more avocados on my next grocery run. When I eat those avocados, I’ll be thinking happy thoughts about the donator.
Tell Your Friends - The best gift you can give me is by helping me spread the word about Think Simple Now. Thank you in advance for doing this. :)
Amazon Shopping - I get a small commission from Amazon (about 3%) if you click through one of my affiliate links and end up buying something on the site. This does not cost anything for you, but will make a big difference for me. When you need to make an online purchase from Amazon, I would really appreciate it if you can click through to Amazon via Think Simple Now (Clicking any of the books along the sidebar will do). If you don’t want to do this, no sweat!

Steps for How I Did It

I’ve learned many lessons along the way prior to leaving my job. Here are some major points and steps that have contributed towards where I am today. I hope they can be helpful to you.

Photo by Mike BG

1. Clear Vision of Result

Many of us don’t get the results we want, because we don’t know what it is we actually want. Not knowing what we want is like jumping on a random train, blind-folded. It might take us to a city we’ll enjoy, but it might not. It is completely random and we have no control over where the train goes.

Alternatively, many of us talk about wanting to be rich. But we don’t know what “rich” means, or understand why we want it, or map out a plan towards obtaining it. This pattern is equivalent to a person in London wanting to be in New York, but hops on a random train in Europe, blind-folded. The ‘wanting’ alone will not get us there.

To get what we want, we need to first have a clear vision of what that thing is. The vision needs to be defined using measurable attributes, along with dates for when you will get there. Once you have a clear measurable goal for what you want and when you want it, you can start to work backwards and map out a plan. As the saying goes, “What gets measured, gets managed.”

In our analogy, say we are living in London but want to be in New York by December 15^th, 2008. We have 4 months to get a travel visa, buy a flight ticket to NYC, look for an apartment or hotel in NYC, take time off work, pack our bags, and ask friends to take us to the airport. Before the end of next week, our plan is to have researched flights and have one purchased.

2. Understanding Why

Let’s say that you too wanted to quit your job and have complete freedom of time, what will you do with the extra time? If you don’t know, you’ll be better off staying at your job, since you’ll likely be bored and will start looking for a job soon. Make sure you understand the drive behind the vision.

List out all the reasons why you want to fulfill your vision. How will achieving that contribute towards your life? How can you use that new found freedom to help others?

3. Write It Down and Date It

I prefer to write down my goals along with a date for when it will happen. Writing it down forces you to clearly articulate the thing you want. Writing down your goals also helps by clearing them out of your mind and onto paper.

It feels just that much more real and doable once it’s in ink and down on paper.

4. Plan

If the steps toward achieving your goals aren’t clear, start listing out ideas for potential roads that can take you there.

Treat each potential road as a separate project, and work on one project at a time. Pick the project that feels the best for you and your interests.

With each project, list out the major steps you need to achieve in order to reach your goal. These steps are large milestones that are measurable. Make sure you set a target date for when each step will be completed.

For each step, break it down further into actionable tasks that can be completed in a few hours. Set a target date for each task. Adjust the target date for completing the step, if necessary.

5. Take Action

Once you set a goal, wrote it down, and planned it out, take one action immediately. Regardless of how small that action is, you are one step closer to your goal, and in doing so, it will start the momentum you need to follow through.

Let’s say that your goal is to run a website offering information on gardening that makes you $200 a month in advertising revenue. The first small step you can take immediate action on is to brainstorm for a domain name, or call a friend who knows about running websites to give you advice, or outlining content ideas, or researching demand by checking out existing gardening websites.

Make a commitment to yourself to take action every week, following the action items from your plan.

6. Adjust

Don’t be afraid of failure, if something isn’t working, so what! Just keep adjusting until something does work. Be bold and courageous, try different things. What’s the worst that can happen? If it doesn’t work out, you’ve eliminated another way that something does not work and you now have a higher chance at finding something that does work. Plus you’ve learned a ton along the way.

7. Emergency Fund

If you’re thinking about quitting your job at some point in the future, make sure that you are building an emergency fund now. Heck, you should be doing that anyway even if you’re planning to stay at your job.

If your goal is to quit your job to work on your own thing, make sure you map out exactly what your monthly costs are. This way you’ll know how much money you’ll need monthly. This also helps when building your emergency fund - how much savings you’ll need and how many month you’ll have before burning out your reserves.

8. Mentors & Models

You can jump into a new field and eventually reach your goals by trial-and-error, or by modeling after a person who is already achieving the kinds of results you want. This person is a mentor. Modeling means to do things that your mentor is doing, and taking the steps that he or she took. Most often than not, you’ll get further following a working formula that’s already proven to work for your mentor.

A mentor could be someone who you interact with in a mentor-mentee relationship, someone you don’t know or someone you casually interact with. Remember, having a mentor does not mean you need a one-on-one formal relationship with them, in fact, many potential mentors are busy people, so don’t waste too much of their time.

Be smart when contacting them. Ask clear, short, conscious questions that are quick to answer, and don’t ask too many questions. There’s nothing that will turn off a potential mentor more than sending them an essay of an email. If you’re a blogger, don’t send them emails asking what they thought of your latest post. Be considerate and respective of their time. Become an excellent observer, and observe what works and what doesn’t.

Parting Words

My purpose for this article isn’t to advocate that you should quit your job. This article was written for anyone with a dream that may have somehow pushed it behind the back-curtains on the stage of life. My message here is that achieving your dream is possible if you want it bad enough and are willing to take action for it.

Regardless of what our dreams are or what our current life story consists of, we have the choice to live deliberately, consciously and purposefully.

Keep learning, for it will give you personal growth. Keep serving others, for it will give you compassion and a sense of connectedness with others. Together, growth and contribution hold the keys to lasting happiness and riches far beyond what money can buy.

Find your passion, and then look for ways to use your passion to provide massive value for others. Try different things until you find your passion. When you find it, you will know, for you will feel it in your heart. It’ll be like breathing. Never give up.

“Forget about the fast lane. If you want to fly, just harness your power to your passion. Honor your calling. Everybody has one. Trust your heart and success will come to you.“

~ Oprah

What is it that you want? What first step can you take? When will you take it? Share your dreams, goals, or thoughts with us in the comment section. See you there.

If you enjoyed this article, please vote for it on Digg, Yahoo Buzz, share it on StumbleUpon or bookmark it on del.icio.us. I appreciate your support. :)

Other Articles You May Enjoy:

External Resources:

Link: Simply Tina
Book: 4 Hour Workweek
Book: Think & Grow Rich
Video: Steve Jobs Stanford Speech
Video: Oprah Winfrey’s Stanford Speech
Audio: How to Make Money Without a Job
ZenHabits: So I Quite My Day Job
Steve Pavlina: 10 Reasons You Should Never Get a Job

154 Responses (150 Comments, 4 Trackbacks ):

Comments

Louis Liem

Aug 20 08, 5:01 pm PDT

1
To me, quitting my day job to blogging was a bet of a lifetime. If I can’t do it right for the rest of my life, I’ll end up homeless in the streets. Thanks for the guidelines and reminding me to keep on the track.
Scott McIntyre

Aug 20 08, 5:21 pm PDT

2
How fascinating it is to read of your story, Tina.

Even while we may be happy in our current employment, often new adventures await us down different roads.

You sound as if you carefully worked out what you wanted to acheive and how you will go about it. This will stand you in good stead for the future.

I wish you the very best for new fulfillment as you embark upon a different chapter of life.
Evelyn Lim

Aug 20 08, 5:54 pm PDT

3
It takes a lot of courage and a leap of faith to do what you are doing. I quit my job when my kids were born so that I could spend time being with them, rather than leaving them at childcare or with a babysitter. It’s quite a lot to give up, the money, the car, company sponsored club membership and all. Even up to now, my friends think I’m crazy to do it! Coming from a country that places a lot of emphasis on women working, my case is hardly the norm.

Luckily, I stumbled on blogging, while looking for something to do part-time because I got bored out of my mind just taking care of kids. A whole new world opened for me as I started to explore my interests and passions. I became more motivated that I’ve ever been in my life.

My journey has not been an easy one. I faced resistance not only externally but internally (due to my own doing). Over the last 2 years, I got to know a whole bunch of guys who had quit their jobs to pursue their internet marketing dreams. All but one or two have now gone back to work.

I’m not trying to dissuade anyone from following their dreams. I’m sharing what has happened. There is the good and the bad part of every decision. So it is important to be prepared.

I wish you all the best, Tina. May you achieve what you set out to achieve.

Blessings always,
Evelyn
Jonathan Mead

Aug 20 08, 6:02 pm PDT

4
Tina, this is really inspiring. It seems that there’s a major shift going on right now in the world with people liberating themselves and freeing themselves from conventional modes of living.

I too am on the same journey as you. It’s damn hard working up to liberating yourself everyday when you don’t know if you might fail. When it comes down to it, I’d rather be striving toward that goal every day and not realize it, rather then lay down and put up a white flag.

For more about my path to liberation, please see this article. I would be sincerely grateful for your thoughts:

http://www.illuminatedmind.net/2008/08/07/liberate-your-life-put-yourself-on-auto-response/

Jonathan

http://illuminatedmind.net - The less boring side of personal development
Miss Cellania

Aug 20 08, 6:04 pm PDT

5
I hope you enjoy the opportunity you have. I’m also a full-time blogger, but I never have time for reading or travel or meditation (I get plenty of exercise). Between finding content for five sites, raising two kids and a garden, aging relatives, and a house that’s falling apart, my life is quite full!
Raymond Chua

Aug 20 08, 6:11 pm PDT

6
HI Tina,

Congratulation for reaching one of your goals. Your story is very inspiring (as always).

I’m working my way to my financial and total freedom too and I believe that it will come true before 2010. :)
Jim Paredes
Aug 20 08, 6:16 pm PDT

7
I remember being a fresh college graduate and applying for a job decades back. My reasons for doing so was because every classmate of mine was doing it and that one was expected to work after college.. But deep down, I knew my calling lay somewhere else. That was some 35 years ago when I opted not to show up at the last minute for the work I applied and was hired for.

Instead I pursued my songwriting and my singing which hardly looked like would be anything like a real career that would pay the bills then. I have gotten awards, major successes, financial windfalls from doing what I do since then. One might say I have been at it for some 39 years by now though I can’t say it is ‘work’ that I do.At my age now, I still don’t worry about the career angle of it but I KNOW that this is a lifetime passion.

Looking back, even if i had not become as materially successful as I actually had, I would still choose this. If I had become a (gasp) a lawyer which I remotely considered, I would probably have become an alcoholic or something.

Pursuing my passion just feels so right. I have used my passion to delight myself and the world I live in.
Tom Stine | Life Coach for Spiritual People

Aug 20 08, 6:20 pm PDT

8
Tina, welcome to the land of the self-employed. So happy you could join us. It is a wonderful way of life. Frustrating at times, exhilarating at others. But never a dull moment.

You get to sleep in, play games all day, wander down the the coffee place at 2:00 to hang-out, catch a movie…. At least, that’s what my 9 to 5 friends think I do.

Enjoy yourself! But do sleep in sometimes. Don’t listen to the get up early crowd. Much more fun to stay in bed in the morning and work at midnight. I would every day if I didn’t have to get my kiddo off to school most mornings.

Be well. Great post by the way. I learned a thing or two. ;-)
Arvind Kumar

Aug 20 08, 6:28 pm PDT

9
Hi Tina, Congrats for achieving your plans and all the very best for planning what you still need to achieve.

Some of the points that you have mentioned makes a lot of sense and are things that we may know but still need to be reminded about from time to time.

I do have plans that I still need to execute but I will first have to start believing in them and in myself.

Thanks for all your tips.
Daniel Richard

Aug 20 08, 6:30 pm PDT

10
Oh my. I just realized something bout myself while reading this post. I didn’t have any emergency funds while following my passions. Though the good part is that I’ve already taken my first step. :)

Great that ya shared this article Tina!
Kyle Freeman of unvain.com

Aug 20 08, 6:37 pm PDT

11
I appreciate that you took the time to share your experience. I love your posts on “how I did it” because they’re great “how to” guides for the rest of us.
John Rocheleau

Aug 20 08, 6:39 pm PDT

12
You are very clear on what you want Tina, and most importantly, you are taking the actions to obtain it. I know that you will succeed in realizing your dreams. And the odd glitch here and there will cause you to grow even more.

Best,
John
Andrea Hess|Soul Realignment

Aug 20 08, 6:42 pm PDT

13
Congratulations, Tina! Welcome to doing your own dance!!! I know this will be an amazing new chapter for you. Yes, it’s a little scary (I sometimes really dread the first day of the month … every month it’s a little like jumping off a cliff and hoping the net will appear when you’re self-employed) but SOOOO worth it.

I’m with Tom … some of the joys of self-employment are definitely getting a massage in the middle of the day, or deciding to take the day off just because … hurray for us!

Blessings,
Andrea
Tabs

Aug 20 08, 6:51 pm PDT

14
Congratulations on accomplishing your goal and thank you for giving detailed information on how you did it. I think that was very, very responsible of you. People who want to follow in your footsteps know exactly where to start.

-Tabs
Dr.Cason

Aug 20 08, 6:57 pm PDT

15
Congratulations Tina,

It amazing what happens when we follow our dream. People cannot help themselves but get swept up by the enthusiasm.

I started DrCason.org recently and have had troble finding time to write down specific step to reach my goal. Silly huh? I’ll post my photos, my inside thoughts, my recommedations and yet the steps elude.

Thanks for the advice.
Peter

Aug 20 08, 7:05 pm PDT

16
Very inspiring Tina! Thanks for sharing your story.
Writer Dad

Aug 20 08, 7:41 pm PDT

17
Wow. That was an exhaustive post, and worth every minute of my time. I loved your quotes (Steve for me, Oprah for my lady), your story, your goals; I loved it all. Thank you, I have subscribed.
Bamboo Forest

Aug 20 08, 7:43 pm PDT

18
This is great that you were able to quit your job. Wishing you abundant success in your new endeavors.
Kyle Baxter

Aug 20 08, 8:01 pm PDT

19
Absolutely inspiring. I can’t wait to see what other ventures you’ve pursued and succeeded at.
PeaceLoveJoyBliss
Aug 20 08, 8:28 pm PDT

20
Tina, kudos to you for taking the heart-pounding, heart-skipping leap of faith from worker bee to freedom lover, where you can be location independent and have complete control of your sweet time. I admire your courage. Really and truly. And Simply Tina? I like it, love the concept, look forward to reading and lending you my support.

Cheers,
Christopher
Dave C.

Aug 20 08, 9:02 pm PDT

21
Another timely post. For the first time in a long time, I’m inspired and passionate about what I’m doing on my blog and I would love to turn it into a career, but I’m still learning about he possibilities. I have a feeling I’m headed in the right direction, but I’ll be keeping tabs on your progress for inspiration.
Will is GALVANIZD

Aug 20 08, 9:06 pm PDT

22
Hey Tina!

Congrats on the scary but EXCITING move that you’ve made! We’ll be rooting for you along the way….

Warmest,

Will :)
Alex Fayle | Someday Syndrome

Aug 20 08, 9:14 pm PDT

23
Great story Tina and good for you for having that emergency fund! When I started my business 5 years ago, I didn’t have that fund (my salary was barely funding my life let alone creating savings). Fortunately my house had tripled in value, however, so I was able to live off the equity while I built the business.

Now I have a very frugal lifestyle and have plans to build income online, but I know it’s a slow process. I figure it’ll take another 5 years to reach a comfortable income level and 10 for real success, but that’s okay, I’ve learned a lot of patience over the years…
Jean Browman - Cheerful Monk

Aug 20 08, 9:24 pm PDT

24
Tina,
You write, “Keep learning, for it will give you personal growth. Keep serving others, for it will give you compassion and a sense of connectedness with others. Together, growth and contribution hold the keys to lasting happiness and riches far beyond what money can buy.”

Amen to that! The way I put it is “Stay curious and open to life. No matter what happens keep learning and growing. Find what you love to do and find a way to share it with others.” Following that philosophy has certainly brought me happiness. I know it will work for you, too.

Blessings!
Vered

Aug 20 08, 9:36 pm PDT

25
“Starting something from nothing and watching it grow is deeply rewarding.”

Very true.

Your story is quite amazing. The combination that you have of intelligence and determination is going to pay off.

Good luck (luck never hurts). :)
Bowen
Aug 20 08, 9:47 pm PDT

26
Tina, congratulations. An inspiring post, as always.
Devan

Aug 20 08, 9:57 pm PDT

27
Wow! You have so many changes in your life at present Tina!

Welcome to the ranks of the self employed. Looks like you have really thought about this and have a clear plan. I have no doubts you will make it, and make it big!

Looking forward to hearing more on here soon.
Disturbed Guy

Aug 20 08, 11:02 pm PDT

28
Oh Yeah! I’m a very skeptical human being but when my eyes read your post it’s like one of the window in my concious mind opened eventhough I heared a lot similar post this but looking this is different, Chemistry? I think it’s just a human instinct to work less and enjoy alot.. ;o)

Regards,

tj
Nick
Aug 20 08, 11:17 pm PDT

29
Congratulations Tina — you are really set for a great adventure.

The key to self-employment is saving money and then taking the leap. I’ve done it twice now and it’s like a game. Cut back expenses ahead of time and watch the bank balance grow. There will be a natural end-point triggered by professional or personal changes. Then its time to go.

Walking out of work that last day, looking at your colleagues pounding away, is one of the most satisfying feelings… Monday at 9am, I know what you will be doing. I do not know what I will be doing.

Po Bronson, author of What Should I Do With My Life, has a great passage in the book about careers. I’ll butcher it effectively: We are swinging from vines and so often we make sure we have the next vine in hand before letting go of the previous vine. We should all at some point let go of the vine we’re holding onto, fall to the forest floor and go climb a new tree.

The great thing about independent work is that you never know where you’re going to end up. There’s such a rush of getting mid-day massages, working from lakeside retreats and realizing that you control your destiny. Also realizing how much work there is out there for independents.

As I’m typing this, the rush comes back.

It’s not easy. The money is a bit less, there’s less security and it can be damn lonely at times. But on the flip side, when you find a vacation deal and wonder if you have enough time off… oh yeah, I do. ;)

Key is saving money. It’s a game. How little can you spend? Friends with jobs my have more stuff and go to fancy dinners all the time but just ask them to go on a bike ride at 11am on Wednesday morning and spend the afternoon in a park having a bit of wine. “I can’t.” Exactly.

Best of luck! You’re going to do great!
Merce Gamell

Aug 21 08, 12:02 am PDT

30
Congrats, Tina. Follow your dreams and passions, everything else will come. Good luck in your new adventure and greetings from Spain.
Ansaar
Aug 21 08, 2:15 am PDT

31
I salute you, what you have done takes, dare i say it, kahunas of steel!
my wife and i are at a stage in our lives where we are just sick and tired of being sick and tired. we’ve been looking at passive income for a while now but, alas i think we are still held back by fear and uncertainty, more a hit and hope attitude than a specific and certain goal ( although i think my two kids are reason enough). I will print this and read it every day!
Thank you for the inspiration. ( I’ve just developed a goal - i will meet you someday!)
NoorAza

Aug 21 08, 2:28 am PDT

32
Congratulation Tina. I will follow your step later. You will be one of my inspiration…

My goal for this year is to get income from online business (blog & online stores) equal to my full time job income and quit from 9-5 job starting 1st Jan 09. I am working on it now and positive that my effort will pay off and I achieve my aim…
Glen Allsopp

Aug 21 08, 2:42 am PDT

33
Is it weird that I enjoyed the ‘Q & A’ section of this the most? Great post Tina, and I’m glad that you managed to quit your job.

I’m going to be in France at the start of next year so maybe we will cross paths ;)

Cheers,
Glen
Karl Staib - Your Work Happiness Matters

Aug 21 08, 5:28 am PDT

34
I have no doubts that you will make it. We bring into our lives what we want the most. I can see that you will succeed and flourish in new ways that you never imagined. I’m working toward your goal. It’s scares me, but reading articles like yours really helps me see what I’m striving for.

Your question to now that you are a pro-blogger… is very similar to the direction that I want to go. I will be keeping a close watch and sending a prayer for your success every now and again.

If you need any help just let me know. I’ll be glad to help.
Kellye
Aug 21 08, 5:35 am PDT

35
You are an amazingly talented photographer. Congratulations on pursuing your dreams. You’re a total inspiration. :)
Daniel Edlen

Aug 21 08, 6:27 am PDT

36
I got lucky enough to have a confluence of events allow/force me to “quit my day job” and pursure my passion. I’d been creating art since I was 6, but didn’t have the self-confidence to try to make it income producing. Then it all fell into place and we were financially able to give it a year. At that time, my goal was to be able to pay for my health insurance with my art income. The bills were taken care of by my wife’s “day job” which was and still is something she truly likes doing. I ended up breaking even that first year, with paying for insurance.

It’s wonderful to be able to pursue my passion so wholeheartedly. But it’s even better to have the self-confidence and self-knowledge of what that passion is and that everybody should know about it.

My suggestion to you, Tina, is that somewhere along the way you allow people to pay you directly for your creativity. It feels good for people to be able to reward production. Passive income and ad income are all well and good, but creating something and selling it makes you feel valuable. It’s a good feeling. Heck, I’ve had people offer more than I charge. Maybe that’d be a book, or something on the side, or guest posting… read a bunch of Seth Godin’s books and blog. He doesn’t even take advertising! It’s the passion and authenticity that people respond to and will pay for, not ads for dianetics.

I hope your journey is truly full of passion.

Peace.
Liara Covert

Aug 21 08, 6:49 am PDT

37
Congratulations on evolving to listen to your authentic self. One of my goals is to run a marathon. I have a friend in the UK who used to run triathalons. That definitely requires dedication. Another friend of mine in Melbourne does triathalons as a way to bond with his young son. Both compete in different age groups but train together and grow together.
lon
Aug 21 08, 6:57 am PDT

38
hmm, try doing stuff step by step…
Craig S. Kaplan

Aug 21 08, 7:00 am PDT

39
Tina, that’s very exciting. Good luck and have a terrific time.

A small tip. For what it’s worth, I really enjoyed my yoga classes in Seattle with an instructor named Ricardo Das Neves. I think he still teaches in a couple of different places (Ballard and downtown?).

I’ve been reading Csikszentmihaly’s book Flow. It makes me think of you.
Jose

Aug 21 08, 7:14 am PDT

40
Thank you!
Heidi Richards Mooney

Aug 21 08, 8:17 am PDT

41
Dear Tina,

As always you hit the nail on the head with this article. I plan to connect to it on the “How to Grow a Million Dollar Business Summit” as our guests should read every word. Many of them already have businesses, some are just starting out and this will be a perfect affirmation of their decisions to Go it alone and do what they love.

Thank you so much for all your words of wisdom ~ for someone so young, you are wise beyond your years.

Warmest regards,

Heidi Richards Mooney, Founder
Where Women Prosper ~ www.wherewomenprosper.com
ChrisM

Aug 21 08, 8:24 am PDT

42
Tina, Congratulations. Your courage is inspiring.

Thanks for sharing!
Holly Hoffman

Aug 21 08, 8:38 am PDT

43
Holy crap! That is so AWESOME!!! Congratulations, you are now my role model. Kick much ass, and enjoy it.
Chris Sharp

Aug 21 08, 9:06 am PDT

44
Dear Tina. The power in you….!! Keep on going!! You’re a great source of inspiration in how you live your life. I admire your openness and willingness to be vulnerable, and sharing the wins and the loses (a.k.a. opportunities) and mistakes and keep right on going, being source. The tips and experiences you’ve shared have really helped me to put areas in my life or ignored pieces of the bigger picture of my life, in perspective again. The biggest example is simply getting our there and sharing my gifts and passions with others, being in service, and share oneself genuinely, with heart. Thank you also for the great advice on writing down one’s plans deliberately.

I feel that living our passions will never tire and wither as long as it evolves out to help create passion in the world. And right now this world really needs all of us to live our passions and to break out of old comforts that restrict our growth.

About motivational speaking and coaching, I know that people will love to see Think Simple Now to continue to evolve, and if you may even begin to take it out into the world, into the communities of the world, being there in the same place, sharing an empowering experience in which your service to others includes people beyond the scope of the internet. I’ll also keep an eye out for this, as well as Simply Tina. I once heard someone say, ‘live your life as if it’s the first day.’
Markus

Aug 21 08, 9:10 am PDT

45
Hi Tina,

I wanted to say “thank you” for the work you do. The articles you write have a profound effect on the people who read them. I’ve passed your blog on to others with the typical “rolling of the eyes” and “blow off” reception. (Many people are a little strange when you talk about inspirational articles or books with them.) However, each time this has occurred, I get a response from people thanking me for introducing them to such an amazing place for simple (yet profound) insight into their thoughts. I can only imagine how good the comments make you feel because those responses from others I’ve shared with have the same impact on me.

Congratulations on your self employment! I have been self employed for about 6 years now but not in the same way you are going about it. I have an office to manage and others to take care of on a daily basis. There are many times when I wish I could just be independent and self sustaining without all the additional stress. I am working on that and your post helps to highlight areas in which to focus.

Keep up the great work! There is no doubt success will come to you!

Markus
Sara at On Simplicity

Aug 21 08, 9:15 am PDT

46
I think a more personal blog is a fabulous idea. I know I’d be interested in reading a live-from-the-scene type of account of self-employment and self-discovery. Cheers to you for reaching your goal.
David T.
Aug 21 08, 10:56 am PDT

47
Yeah as soon as I can save up 24 months of living expenses I will pursue my dream too.. LOL
David A. Scovetta

Aug 21 08, 11:04 am PDT

48
I would strongly suggest that anyone reading Robert Kiyosaki take an objective approach to his material. Despite his ability to convey enthusiasm upon readers, many of his ideas and suggestions are unethical and in some cases, illegal.

His “rich dad” for example was a made-up story. On an interview on Smart Money, he says “Is Harry Potter real? Why don’t you let Rich Dad be a myth, like Harry Potter?”

The wall street journal did an article about his “financial advice” in 2006: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB116052181216688592.html?mod=money_page_left_hs

Frankly I am hard-pressed to take any advice from someone whose sole income is… selling books giving advice.

If you want a real joke, read his books on 401(k) plans and how they are “impending doom” for the stock market.
mack
Aug 21 08, 11:05 am PDT

49
you know what else having a job making a ton of money can do?

allow you to pursue your dreams…

keep in mind, your inspiration becomes pompous to the working class.
Char Reed

Aug 21 08, 11:11 am PDT

50
Hi Tina,

I read your post and I have one suggestion. While I have not been to Paris myself (well, except the airport), I have been on vacation to Lyon, France. If there was anywhere I’d want to live and be location independent, it’s Lyon. I think compared to Paris, from what I’ve heard of Paris, it’s slower paced, relaxed and very pleasant. If you have your heart set on Paris, then by all means, take what I say with a grain of salt, but Lyon would suit your style from what I know of you through this blog. The people of Lyon are friendly, helpful and always a joy to speak to- even with my limited movie-learned French phrases!

Take care and best of luck with your dreams!
Char

********************

REPLY

Thank you Char for the suggestion. I will look into Lyon. I’m not set on Paris, France more like it. :)

Tina
elamb security

Aug 21 08, 11:13 am PDT

51
I’m on my way.. I’ll see you there.
Thomas
Aug 21 08, 11:13 am PDT

52
Bravo ! Je t’apprends à parler français quand tu veux ;)

***********************

REPLY

Bien sûr. J’attends avec impatience.

:)

Tina
Matt
Aug 21 08, 11:24 am PDT

53
You’ve forgot to mention working at your high paying Amazon position made “living your dream” possible. Most regular folks have no choice but to work at jobs they don’t enjoy because that’s what you do to survive! Wouldn’t it be nice if the cashier at Walmart or the guy working 12-14 hour days roofing could save enough cash to be able to “live their dream?” That’s OK, they’ll read your blog and help you live yours.
Anand
Aug 21 08, 11:33 am PDT

54
I left my day job just over a week ago, and you know what? I’m glad I stumbled across this website ( digg ). They say time is money and well, time is all I have all day long, so I guess I just have to put some if not all of that time into doing something that I truly feel passionate about. So thank you and I congratulate your self and many others ( including myself ) for making such a bold decision in terms of freeing one’s self and living life to the fullest all while doing something you love and earning an income for it.
irritated
Aug 21 08, 11:40 am PDT

55
I see plenty of people who will tell others to follow their passions but few who follow through and fewer still who can live that way their entire lives. People love to see it happen, and I’m glad it happened to you, but promoting it is sort of like promoting the lottery as far as I’ve experienced.

Personally I hate my job. I get up every day hating it. I go to it anyway though. Then I come home too tired to start another career in something I might like.

A lot of people are in my position. It’s sad, but nobody cares, and I’ve died inside just enough to have practically given up.

Bring your success to others without having them buy a bunch of crap or go to expensive seminars and I’ll be impressed. Otherwise you’re just another phony life coach selling dreams IMO.
BridesMadeFit

Aug 21 08, 11:47 am PDT

56
You are an inspiration and provide reassurance to those of us who chose to start something from nothing. I, too, started my own business and blog to express myself and devote my entire life to my passion for health and fitness. I finally feel complete and feel liberated to know that I will be a success. Great entry!!
William Nunez
Aug 21 08, 11:48 am PDT

57
I can really relate on what you are saying, I too hate the social conditioning that gets instilled in you of needing a job, working for someone else for the rest of your life. I’m in the same boat that you were in and I am searching and searching for my passion but can’t seem to find it at this time. Due to having this “job” thing I cannot find a way to look since I’m stuck at work all day long and even on weekends when neccessary. I have no time for my family, for the things I really enjoy doing, and time for just me. It is really driving me crazy and I do not want to continue this way. Some of the things I would love to do are: racing cars, simple tropical island living, traveling the world with the family. Anyway thanks for posting your story it shed some light on the continued search that I have to do.
Take care
William
Mt. Crunksuvious
Aug 21 08, 12:16 pm PDT

58
I believed (and still believe) that when we are doing that which we are completely passionate about, money will come.

Yeah, from your trust fund.
Cute article. Next time you’re in the Hamptons, tell Troy and Miffy I said “hi”
Ravi Gehlot

Aug 21 08, 12:27 pm PDT

59
Hi Tina,

I am so glad I found your blog. I felt a connection with the way you think. It is funny because I also had a stable job that paid fairly good and I chose to walk away just to give me time to understand what it is that I want in my life. I was working everyday exchanging my time for money and at times it was so frustrating. The job fulfilled my expectations money wise and I was doing something I have always loved: computer programming. Now that there is no need to work, I decided to go back to school and finish my major in Computer Science.

I want to learn French and I also have an endless passion for traveling specially driving to go far. I read a lot of books on insight and inspiration. More like self-realization books.

Will check your blog often..

Thanks,
Ravi Gehlot
Julian

Aug 21 08, 12:31 pm PDT

60
I actually put in my 2 week last Sunday. Only being 1 year out of Uni, I decided it was more important to have the time available to be active on my own whim. Plus by Freelancing all of the work I put into my job will come back to me. By forcing myself to “make ends meat” for myself, I feel actually more free to move forward.

I am glad I am just one person in this school of thought.
RowdyKittens

Aug 21 08, 12:42 pm PDT

61
Congrad’s Tina - I wish you the best.

If any of you are planning on leaving your job and/or downscaling, read “Your Money or Your Life.” The book is life changing and offered a plethora of tips that will improve your quality of life. :)
Evan
Aug 21 08, 12:45 pm PDT

62
Certainly food for thought.
But I would have thought our goals would be less self-centered than
* To complete a triathlon
* To learn French
* To live everyday fully, as if my last

Looking forward to read about how you do.Good luck!
Davey Stevenson

Aug 21 08, 12:47 pm PDT

63
I’m personally working toward two major goals of independent work I’d like to do. The first has been my crafting, which I’ve actually started making money on rather than just spending money on this year. It is immensely satisfying to be doing something for the joy of doing it and then getting back money. It is still not enough to quit my day job, but I’m working in that direction and the small steps are what really have gotten the ball rolling.
The other is a small press that has been rattling around in the back of my skull for years. The progress here is less substantial, but you have reminded me that I need to start setting some solid goals and making visible progress.

Thanks!
Dave - The Greeniest

Aug 21 08, 1:43 pm PDT

64
There’s always got to be haters around to stomp on other people’s dreams.

Tina, don’t let the clowns get you down. Go for what you believe in, if only to prove the haters wrong. More power to you, girl.
Angela
Aug 21 08, 1:48 pm PDT

65
Oh my gosh, I am seeing my days blend into one another. Time flies by, and I deeply long for something with much more meaning! My children are growing up and my daughter doesn’t think she has any talents or goals - it is time to make that plan and take action! Thanks for the inspiration.
Chris

Aug 21 08, 1:57 pm PDT

66
Hi Tina,

Congrats to you on actualizing your dream and having the courage to share your journey while facing many of the non-believers. Many people are not aware of the fact that everything is a choice and we always have a choice no matter how deep in sh*t we are. I think what you are doing is great and it certainly is a challenge to be strong enough to not let the non-believers get you down.

To the people who have their knees deep in sh*t and think that they have no choice but to be stuck there, what’s behind Tina’s story is the universe’s way of telling us that there is always a choice, as long as we stop victimizing ourselves so that we can see clearly what the choices are presented to us. It’s only human to ask the “why me or why not me” questions and look outside for blames and answers, afterall that’s what FEAR makes us do to blind us from the truth.

Tina’s courage and conviction to take the jump into the unknown by quitting her day job and starting something from scratch should be an inspiration to help those of us who are not satisfied with where we are and what we have, and have the desire to want more and get higher, to have enough courage to take that leap of faith.

Besides, if it will allow you the chance to finally do whatever it is you’d like to do freely because you love doing it and still make a good living, who will be the one benefiting from it and having the last laugh? It’s you, who acted and took the jump.

I did take the first jump and while keeping my busy day job, I am committing to invest time and effort into my own business that I started, to make sure that I achieve financial and personal freedom doing something that I love. And it is the greatest sense of fulfillment. Don’t believe it? Try it for yourself!

Thanks Tina, for sharing something inspiring with the world. There ARE people who appreciate it!

Chris
Elie
Aug 21 08, 2:08 pm PDT

67
The journey is the happiness. No pain, no gain.

The more effort you put in, the more you enjoy it.
M
Aug 21 08, 2:33 pm PDT

68
You are an imbecile.

90% of the US cannot afford to do what you are doing because they are in debt or live paycheck to paycheck.

The only reason you can do what you do is because money (the load of it you made at a job that probably paid four times the median poverty wage) does buy happiness, by way of not having a job.
Chris L
Aug 21 08, 2:58 pm PDT

69
Sorry but I have to ask…does Tina have young children or a spouse? Taking the blind leap of freedom and personal fulfillment is a lot easier when it’s just yourself, with no one else looking to you to provide food, shelter, etc.
Tina Su

Aug 21 08, 3:11 pm PDT

70
Hi Chris L,

That’s a fare comment and I appreciate you taking the time to leave that feedback.

Just for clarification, I did not take a blind leap, I only did so after my passive income exceeded my expenses. The story would be different if I had kids, I would have gotten here, but may take more time to be extra cautious. Up to about a month ago, I did have a spouse to support, and I took that into consideration when planning.

Having said that, my mentor Leo Babauta of ZenHabits.net did the same thing I did. He quit his day job to pursue his passion for writing and helping people. Leo has 6 kids and a spouse to support.

Warmly,
Tina
Flora Morris Brown, Ph.D.

Aug 21 08, 4:28 pm PDT

71
Tina,

Thanks so much for sharing your personal story. It’s important on several levels.

First, you made it clear that you didn’t just leap blindly into quittting your job. The dream to eventually starting your new life started five years before. Too many people get the impression that changing your life is abrupt .

Second, once the seed was planted you planned and sacrificed to save the finances that would ensure you could follow your dream and eat too. There’s not much benefit in jumping from a height without a parachute.

Third, you’ve made blogging just one piece of your plan. This way you enjoy a variety of things that make you happy and open up multiple streams of income as well.

Fourth, you’ve created a daily routine and long-term plan, some of which sounds similar to mine. I recently retired from a teaching career and am frequently asked if I enjoy it. Many leave their jobs or retire only to find it boring to do nothing. These folks look amazed when I tell them I have plan and routine for my time, and that I’m having a great time.

Fifth, you’ve disclosed some of the ways you make money, all of which are available to everyone. I hope this dispels the illusion that your income is magic. I love that you gave us the opportunity to contribute, especially those who are most worried about how you’re doing it (even though you’ve made it quite clear.)

Sixth, you’ve given us 8 steps that have worked for you, and will surely work for us if we will confidently take action.

Seventh, you made it clear that you’re not encouraging anyone to quit his job if that’s not what he wants to do. Throughout my teaching career I straddled the fence of following my passion in a 40-year career while also enjoying being a business owner, writer, speaker and now blogger as well. (By the way, my husband and I raised 4 children along the way.)

Most people are probably better off finding jobs they enjoy because they are just too terrified to follow their dream and rely on their own passion. Too bad that such folks try to poke holes in the success stories of others, never realizing that a shift in consciousness would land them in success stories of their own.

Congratulations on your endeavors. You deserve the happiness and success you are enjoying.
Krazd

Aug 21 08, 4:59 pm PDT

72
Congrats and good luck! That is very inspiring.

Dugg!!
Kelly@SHE-POWER

Aug 21 08, 5:38 pm PDT

73
Tina

You really are an inspiration and there is so much in this post for someone to grab hold of and apply to their own life if they wish. I’d be keen to read a personal blog about this new journey you’re on. Keep us posted.

Kelly@SHE-POWER
Nick

Aug 21 08, 5:38 pm PDT

74
Great article and story. Great luck on your new journey. I have just done the same thing and will also be keeping a blog of my new life. There must be some type of of similar thinking since your blog is titled “think simple now” and mine is “simplistic thoughts”.

Best of luck
Cecilia

Aug 21 08, 5:45 pm PDT

75
Tina, your posts are truly an inspiration. Somehow you always manage to write the things I need to read, and that’s a gift for me.
When you travel to South America, do come to Buenos Aires (I’d be happy to show you around).
Bob
Aug 21 08, 5:52 pm PDT

76
Does this mean there’s an opening at Amazon?
Colz
Aug 21 08, 6:11 pm PDT

77
Good for you Tina, I too found this incredibly inspiring, you’ve got me thinking hard about where I want to be and how I want to get there. Turning 40 in two years so it’s probably a good time for me to start planning.

To the people who are whinging about not having the luxury of a high paying job for 6 years, you are totally missing the point of what Tina is trying to get across. Know yourself, know what you want and start taking steps (even baby steps) to get there…. do what you can.

The blog is called Think Simple Now…..not Dwell on the Complex & Negative.

Tina, may your future be filled with avacados….French ones.
Vanessa L
Aug 21 08, 6:17 pm PDT

78
Hi Tina,

Thank you for this. I’m a first time reader of your blog, and I really appreciate you sharing your story. I’m 22 and by the end of the year I will hold a degree in engineering and management. I’ve made it this far and I should be loving it right? Actually, far from it. I hate it. I’m finishing to please my parents, then after that I am going to pursue my own business. In my search for an alternative, I found something that is going to secure me financially and ultimately free me up to pursue the things that I love. Having the finances (or not) is beside the point. Having the desire and the plan outweigh anything else.

It is so true that is it better to pursue what you love to do. This was an article for the people who often think about what’s on the other side. What if I did this instead? What do I want? How bad do I want it? What am i willing to give up? I give you a lot of credit for getting out of you comfort zone. You didn’t like where you were heading so you got out.

Thank you again,

Vanessa
Luis

Aug 21 08, 6:18 pm PDT

79
Hi Tina,

Thanks so much for this article. I read you from Caracas, Venezuela and I totally fell in love with your blog.

I was recently fired from my job. I was waiting for this to happen, to the point I think I manifested it. Now I’m a freelance photographer, with a small bussiness in Desing, Event Planning, and about to open a Café, in Caracas.

I have decided though to move to Margarita Island, an amazing place on he rise, here in Venezuela. I dream of living on the beach, so I am persuing what my wife and I really want. I feel unhappy in Caracas, and long for a new beginning.

This is the only thing I want. And I will succeed at doing it. Thanks for giving me inspiration.
Ken

Aug 21 08, 6:27 pm PDT

80
I wish you all the best in your pursuit of happiness. I admire you for your courage and thank you for your inspiration. I too would like to follow my passion and dreams. All of the pieces are starting to comes together and I really feel like what has happened to me over the past six years of my life have prepared me for embracing tomorrow. My two baby nephews have also accelerated my dreams. I want to spend more time with them instead of behind a desk in front of a computer. TMI…I know, so good luck with everything.
Monica at Healthy Green Moms

Aug 21 08, 6:32 pm PDT

81
Congratulations Tina! I’m so happy for you and the success you have earned and attracted. I would love to read something from Simply Tina so I’ll stay tuned.
My husband and I are also on this journey of financial freedom and passive income. I have yet to write about it but we have been on this path for about 4 years. Currently we both are now able to be at home with our daughter.

We both know that being free of the repetitive demands of life will give us the opportunity to express ourselves fully. It’s been a spiritual practice because we are learning that the only way to really be free is to offer service and value to others. There is an unlimited supply when you step away from competition.
Wishing you success and abundance.

ps…I’m an avacado-a-holic!
Darryl Heron

Aug 21 08, 6:44 pm PDT

82
Tina:

I’m so happy for you. It is always inspiring to see people doing well at what they like to do. I wish you all the best with your latest of challenges.
David

Aug 21 08, 7:50 pm PDT

83
Another great post! Keep ‘em coming!

David
Deborah

Aug 21 08, 9:28 pm PDT

84
I decided to quite my job as a manager for a major business. I have enjoyed my time off with many accomplishments since that day. After much consideration I am now employed, starting next week, with a major box store with substantially less pay, but much more of what I really want. I will be on my feet, running and interacting with my community. I will not be stuck at a desk dealing with hard core issues and employee situations. I find it hard to believe that I am really excited to start my new adventure, but I am! I feel I will make a positive difference in my ‘not so powerful positon’ and truly look forward to being a real person. Bottom line here is, money really can not buy happiness, do what makes you and yours happy. Life is to short to be miserable!
tngeorgia
Aug 21 08, 9:32 pm PDT

85
I see you have placed a paypal account in your blog for donations….no mention of YOU donating anything or doing anything for someone else as part of your personal fulfillment. Ah Grasshopper, you are a young, modern-day hippie. I hope I can spur you into action for the benefit of others. Until you do, you will still be unsatisfied. The donations you receive will diminish your feelings of independence and self-realization. Rethink that decision and you’ll make faster progress.
Sophie

Aug 21 08, 10:02 pm PDT

86
Hi Tina,

Very inspiring stuff. Following your dreams is not easy but it feels right. Timing is everything and so I think that people that rush into something sometimes can be let down if they didn’t plan properly. I have been blogging for a little over a year and I’m finally starting to see positive results so that I can stay home and work while my husband has an employer (and our benefits too…thank goodness) so I’ve been fortunate to leave the corporate world behind after about 10 years.

The learning process is what I enjoy the most along with connecting with people. Spending my time (as you mentioned) determining what I want to write about and how I can provide information to my readers is the best feeling in the world.

I am so happy for you that you followed your dreams, made a plan and actually followed through with it. Now you are an inspiration to so many of us out here in cyberspace and beyond.

Sophie
selene

Aug 21 08, 10:27 pm PDT

87
Thank you :)
I’ve read Self-Help books, hid my head under the blanket, screamed into a pillow, basically everything psosible trying to figure out my life.

I know what I want. But I always thought somethings, in life, we can’t have what we want.

I live in Singapore, a society that doesn’t tolerate/accept individuals who pursue their dreams. Once we’re of a certain age, the pressure of being a responsible adult is inevitable. As the poor gets poorer, it’s only responsible for a 20 year old adult-to-be me to think rationally and have a job to 1. Lighten the burden of my parents 2. Start saving up for further education (really important in Singapore to have a certificate even though nothing you’ve learnt are etched in your mind let alone be put into practice) 3. Start doing my part to build a family so my children (if any in future) will break this ‘middle-class cycle’

See my dream, my passion is to work in the Singapore Zoo. I did pursue it a few months ago for three weeks which turned out to be the best three weeks of my life. But then my mind took over and decided to quit the job for something else that pays almost twice as much.

Life has never been the same. Something always seem to be missing…

But after reading your article, I have hope.
And that may be all I need to have.
Thank you.
:)
Marjan
Aug 22 08, 1:19 am PDT

88
Good luck, f#$%er! :) Will be doing the same in four months.
Marjan
Aug 22 08, 1:21 am PDT

89
P.S.: Sorry, thought you were a guy. :) Good luck then, miss. :)
Tim

Aug 22 08, 1:27 am PDT

90
It’s funny how hard it has been to come up with a clear visualisation of the life I desire - it’s a simple vision and, I have it now after many years and again, it’s funny how sychronicity works, so thanks for the post!

may the road rise up to meet you,

Tim
Josh

Aug 22 08, 5:29 am PDT

91
Wow. Great article.
I too made this leap several years ago when opening my own business. Eventually though I realized that I was investing all of my free time back into the business. Whether you are “dropping out” to open a business or to pursue art as a career, I think it is critical, as you point out, to focus on the parts of life you really want to enhance. Just having time means almost nothing–you have to work hard to get out of the work mode. You need to know what it is you want to accomplish in life, or you will just end up working more.
Tony
Aug 22 08, 9:33 am PDT

92
@tngeorgia There are more ways to give than just money. You can give value to people in many ways at any time. Showering a stranger with love is giving. Teaching someone is giving. Tina mentioned empowering herself to become a motivational speaker and life coach. To many, her blog provides the kind of creative and potential value and giving that money can’t touch.
Techguy

Aug 22 08, 10:31 am PDT

93
Man this is such a inspirational story. I hope to be there some day so wish me luck. Good luck to ya.
Angela
Aug 22 08, 11:23 am PDT

94
Tina, I am very happy for you…and proud of you. I think the feedback you’ve received thus far to this post just demonstrates just how sensitive and universal a nerve you’ve struck. And I think the negative feedback is just as indicative as the positive feedback is.

When we’re kids, we’re a lot braver about attempting physical feats. We’re not as afraid of falling. For some reason, we get older and taller, and the fear sets in. Ever watch six-year-olds blast down the ski slopes (with no poles) around and past stuttering adult newbie skiiers?

The same is true when it comes to change. I quit a very lucrative job a year ago, and I have no regrets. I have friends who smile and mutter under their breaths, “Must be nice,” or “The things you can do when you don’t have children,” et cetera. The thing is, none of them has walked in my shoes…or driven behind my steering wheel. 20 hours a week commute time was part of my job. I slept plenty of times overnight in my office to meet deadlines. I don’t miss it. Not for any money in the world.

I don’t think the “haters” need to be dismissed or chided. I think they need to be sympathized with a little. They’re simply afraid of change. Some of them to the point of absolute terror. I have friends working in jobs they absolutely *hate*, to the point they turn red just talking about it. “Why don’t you apply for another job?” I ask. “Well, I know what to expect with this one.” That makes me sad.

I think the important thing is to know that all you can do is pursue your dream and hope that you can inspire others to make the changes that they *know* deep down are necessary. Most folks don’t make life-altering decisions without planning. I saved a set amount of money, lined up alternate means of income, and set a date. It’s not a matter of being “lucky” to have a good job. I went into a field I knew was lucrative and didn’t require years of education (court reporting). It’s not a matter of being “lucky” to not have others to support. I have a husband and now our first baby on the way.

It’s all a matter of choice. I’ve been in debt before. It was a choice. I’ve gotten out of debt. I’ve made good money. I went into a specific field. All these things have been a matter of choice, not luck. I think the comment about 90% of Americans are stuck in an unfortunate mire is inaccurate. I think that view would change upon examination of their spending habits and everyday choices in life.

So you go, girl! It is refreshing and reassuring to know that there are such forward-thinking, brave young folks out there. Anytime I hear of someone casting away from the crowd to pursue their dreams, no matter what it is, it just makes me smile. This is what life’s about, my friends. Going for your passion. We’ve only got one life.
Tootie

Aug 22 08, 12:43 pm PDT

95
Congrats on your transition to freedom! It was very inspiring to read your post, and I wish you all the best! (And, of course, I’ll be coming back to your blog to read more :)
Sal from Intent.com

Aug 22 08, 2:49 pm PDT

96
Hi Tina,

What an inspiring story - I just sent it to my husband who thinks very much along these lines - how DO we achieve financial freedom? What does that really mean? And what are the steps we need to take to get there.

I wrote some more about your post here - would love your thoughts!

http://beta.intent.com/blog/2008/08/22/making-dreams-a-reality

Sal
Alex Andrei

Aug 22 08, 3:09 pm PDT

97
Great article. I just happened to see it on Digg. The mentors and models you mentioned are so very important for getting up the courage to go after your dream. When you see someone who is already living it, that gives you tremendous confidence that what you’re pursuing CAN be real.

In 2005, my wife Pamela Skillings, was in a similar spot as a VP of Marketing at Citi. It was a good job, great office and perks - but it was sucking her soul out.

Her department had been using freelance consultants for a while, and after seeing that THEY could make a living without a corporate job, it really inspired her to start her own business.

After she left, and her business was up and running, people kept asking her how she did it. After the while she realized people could really benefit from knowing how make a practical plan to quit their jobs.

Fast-forward three years, and I’m proud to announce that my adorable Pam’s first book from Random House came out this past May! It’s called ESCAPE FROM CORPORATE AMERICA - LOL!!! (It has her story, and the stories of about 60 other “corporate escapees”.)

Thanks for sharing,

Alex
J.D. Meier

Aug 22 08, 5:21 pm PDT

98
If you follow your passion, the money follows … unless you have no talent — then it’s a hobby ;)

I think if you live by your “why” and your “hows”, you play your best game whether in a corp or on your own.
Charmed
Aug 22 08, 10:47 pm PDT

99
Hey Tina, your page is going straight on my bookmark list. I’m currently in a job that has principles and an ethos completely at odds with mine. While it has one or two aspects that are important to me, I’m increasingly finding myself living for the far-too-modest paycheck. Websites like yours are increasingly finding their way to my desktop. I’m at the early stages of a journey like yours, it’s terrifying and lonely but I know that staying put where I am is never going to work out positively.

I’ve just read through all the comments and food for thought or what. Seems that one of the obstacles to self-fulfilment is the negativity at the heart of others. For example: you are upfront about money and how fortunate you were that you could build up a nestegg, so it’s beyond me how commenters here can take pot-shots at you for it. The phrase ‘to heck with the begrudgers comes to mind’.

All the very best to you

********************

REPLY:

You are awesome! Thanks for the positive encouragement.

I’ve learned that no matter what I write, there will always be people who really connect with it, and others who oppose it. And I’m okay with that, I’m at peace with it. Sometimes, I do wish that people can be more constructive instead of writing for the sake of hurting.

Tina
LeslieB

Aug 23 08, 5:52 am PDT

100
WOW! Thanks for shining a light back to us who are just starting on the same path!

I treat myself to quarterly retreats in order to get away from all my responsibilities so I can dream/think/plan to have a happier life. I borrowed a friend’s lake house for free once, and today I am sitting in a 4-star hotel that I low-bid on Priceline. It takes more of a time commitment than a money one, so I hope some of your readers will try to carve out an hour, a day or a weekend to relax and renew their dreams.

Reading your post first thing this morning was like a roadmap of what I am here to do this weekend! Thanks for making the steps so clear and for being my virtual mentor today. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Helen Hegedus

Aug 23 08, 7:54 am PDT

101
I’m now on my third “job” since I accepted a package from a major Canadian financial institution. The word “institution” pretty much sums up the last couple of soul-sucking years there.

I joined my partner’s small web-based business, which we sold last year for a handsome profit. I also had small investments, as you do, to help pay bills. I consider the care and feeding of these investments my second “job.”

The third job is working with Trusted Transitions, and writing a blog on helping seniors move from their homes to a retirement residence. I pick and choose the work I do, and find working with seniors interesting, fulfilling, and eye-opening, as I’m a senior in training.

I’ve never seriously considered going back to corporate life, and hope I’ll never have to return. I have been able to do everything I’ve wanted to … travel, major purchases, retirement savings … with a income less than I earned. And, I want for nothing.

Life is good!
Gabriel Zorrilla

Aug 23 08, 10:49 am PDT

102
It’s nice you found your way in life. I, instead of quitting a high paid job to find my personal satisfaction through reading books, traveling and basically doing nothing productive, I’d have invested and putting all your brains and effort in helping others, that’s truly rewarding.

Hope that traveling will get you to the real world lady, at least, if you travel to real world spots and not marketing made paradises with no structural poverty, racism violence and diseases.

****************
REPLY:

I’d have invested and putting all your brains and effort in helping others, that’s truly rewarding.

Thanks for commenting Gabriel. I actually plan to spend almost all of my time dedicated towards helping people. Part of my goal for reading is to gain better understanding of myself and subjects I can help people on.

The rest of the activities such as exercise and traveling will also be included in my life. They are important to me as well. We all have different desires and needs. I hope we can all respect and appreciate the diverse differences in everyone.

Tina
MattyP

Aug 23 08, 4:03 pm PDT

103
Thanks for sharing your inspirational story and a series of tips for those of us who hope to follow in your footsteps some day. It’s great to hear how well things have turned out for you - best of luck in the future!

Like you, I hope to do the work I love which is helping those around me to become successful in their lives. Tips such as those you’ve shared should help me in my own journey.

Thanks again!

KAED!
Philip Lilly

Aug 23 08, 6:19 pm PDT

104
This is a really inspiring post. One question comes to mind though. If everyone pursues their dream of quitting their job then there wouldn’t be any opportunities. I can only hope that I can do something like this. It still seems so foreign to not get a regular job. If it was easy though, then everyone would do it. I am glad it worked out here. It inspires me to have hope to have a life less ordinary.

- Achieving your Dreams
Phoenix
Aug 23 08, 6:34 pm PDT

105
All this higher order listen-to-your-calling stuff is great. But if you live in a big expensive city and have responsibilities for others, not only yourself, then all these feel good steps are a little difficult to take.
Frugal Dad

Aug 24 08, 6:32 am PDT

106
This is incredibly inspiring as someone who is also interested in an early exit from the rat race! I’m interested to learn more about how you’ve replaced benefits (health insurance, etc.). I know many people simply pay COBRA for 18 months and see what happens, but this can get expensive. Benefits, and a small pile of debt, are currently the only two things keeping me from stepping away myself. Best of luck in your new role!
Jeannette

Aug 24 08, 5:06 pm PDT

107
Hi Tina!

Congratulations on achieving your goal! Your story is most inspiring and uplifting and I genuinely feel excited and happy for you…even though I do not know you!

Just a few weeks I declared my intention of quitting my full time job…and jobs in general…by December 2009. I, like you, find true pleasure in living my life in it’s own natural flow and a job just takes away from that. I admit it’s a very scary thing to want but I believe it can happen and reading your story strengthens my belief and confirms that yes this is exactly what I want to do.

I am very grateful to have stumbled upon your blog. I look foward to reading up on your past posts and keeping up with current ones.

Thank you for sharing…you are a true inspiration :)
Richard

Aug 24 08, 9:16 pm PDT

108
Great post. Thank you.

Quitting a person’s job to pursue the unknown can be a highly stressful situation for some, but for some of us it’s really just the start of our lives so to speak and couldn’t get more exciting.

I am so glad to hear that in your case it was the latter. I wish you only the very best in the future.

Take care,

Richard
Arif Vakil

Aug 26 08, 1:53 am PDT

109
Hi Tina,

Ali told me about this post, but I had to see it for myself. Conrats, Tina! So good for you. I’d really look forward to the Simply Tina blog, so do have it up soon. Would love to follow you in your adventures.

Take care, keep smiling :-)
Arif & Ali
Joe
Aug 26 08, 1:15 pm PDT

110
Some Avocados on me. Thanks for the inspiration.

Sincerely,
Future Ex Wage Slave
francetales.com

Aug 27 08, 12:07 am PDT

111
While I didn’t intentionally leave a good paying job, I did move to France from the US and have found it hard to find work here. I teach English about 15 hours per week. That motivated me to learn to make money from online endeavors and reduce spending on non-essential items. Now that my French is good and my status is perfectly legal I could work full time, but right now I don’t have to. I am going to try to never go back to full time work or at least work for someone else.

PS
If you would like some online sources for learning French I have lots.
Bon courage!
Paul

Aug 27 08, 1:52 am PDT

112
Great post and it tells such a great story too!
S
Aug 27 08, 7:31 am PDT

113
Good for you. It’s great that you’re pursuing the life you want.

Do remember though that not everyone dreams of giving up the nine to five and writing or being self employed. I know that’s not what you were implying as this is just your story but it is what lots of people automatically jump to.

Personally I love my job, I work in an office and it’s 9 - 5 but I work for a good cause (helping and advising on people’s development so not that different to you in a way), I have no take home work, I work in a beautiful environment (an area classified as one of outstanding natural beauty), my intellect and sociability are nourished by what I do.
What is more significant here though is that I feel it is important, ethically, for me to be working for an organisation rather than as self employed. Self employment doesn’t suit everyone and some people really make the worse bosses/ employees so it’s even worse when you’re both. I earn my living knowing that I’m not exploiting anyone else to do so; not implying you are but I would feel uneasy relying on encouraging people to purchase things to make me money as I don’t believe in excessive consumerism.

Anyway, I just think there are so many important jobs that cannot be done selfemployed and are peoples dreams (like the medical profession, charity and development work and more) that “giving it up” should not be held up to be some amazing answer. As you said, people need to know what their ideal life looks like and I have just seen too many people make mistakes about their own desires, abilities and needs and go for the adventure when the office job is actually a perfect fit for them. I may not be as cool or glamourous as you but I follow a dream too. And so does my friend who cares for the elderly and my social worker friend.
Bobaloo
Aug 27 08, 7:54 am PDT

114
Admire your story… but spoken like someone who doesn’t have kids.
Jesse Hines

Aug 27 08, 12:31 pm PDT

115
Thanks for such an open post sharing your experience transitioning to a career of your own making.

These ideas for making things happen jumped out the most:

3. Write It Down and Date It

5. Take Action

Very simple and obvious, yes, but how many of us actually do them?

Not enough, I would say.
Sasha
Aug 28 08, 8:26 am PDT

116
Hi Tina! I’m really glad you mentioned having a backup fund and writing clear defined goals - I think most people have big dreams but few know how to actually implement it, either at all or being careless. I hope one day I can find my ‘life purpose’ just as you have! You are an inspiration and I wish you all the best!
Tom Stine | Life Coach

Aug 28 08, 1:50 pm PDT

117
You know, one thing I should have mentioned: I know a lot of people don’t really buy into ” do what you love, and the money will come.” I read a post recently trashing that idea. But guess what? It so often works. You clearly are doing that Tina, and your ideas above support this idea.
Barbara J. Faison

Aug 28 08, 4:55 pm PDT

118
Wow! What a great,inspiring story and “how to” for people to read and share.

Thanks for sharing and providing a light for others so they can see a model of a way to make that change.

If you are interested in meditation, check out my site, I’ve just released my audio program, Be Still: Learn to Meditate in 10 Minutes a Day. On my site you can listen to a sample meditation.

I look forward reading more on your site. Thanks again for sharing.
Spiritlight

Aug 29 08, 7:09 am PDT

119
This I will go trough very much, there where some advices that I will take. My goal is to live of grid.
fiona

Aug 29 08, 2:07 pm PDT

120
Thanks for the info.
AS
Aug 30 08, 5:40 am PDT

121
First of all I want to thank you, Tina! Your post was very inspiring for me and I was touched deeply.
I rarely leave a comment on the website I read, because I have to struggle with my English (I’m Italian), but this time I cannot doing so.

It’s a coincidence, in this days I feel like you two years ago: I feel the need to have back my time to pursue my passions, but at the moment I don’t know clearly how my passions can make me live without a job. But I want to discover it!

Because of you, I find out that I’m not the only one with this need (as I see from the comments on this post).

Thank U, and sorry for my English! :-)
Wakas

Aug 31 08, 2:55 am PDT

122
Great to cya doing good Tina keep it up. It’s true when one loves what they do one can never ever fail :)
Danielle

Sep 01 08, 3:50 pm PDT

123
Thanks for the wonderful reminder again Tina! We are all destined for something wonderful and magical. It is so easy to forget that!

Keep up the good work!
Shun Jian | RichGrad.com

Sep 03 08, 4:02 am PDT

124
Hey Tina,

Welcome to the club…

I’m still figuring out what to do with all the spare time I have… Tim wrote about how “the new rich” tend to feel a little lost when they start to work less and earn more… I’m having this “happy problem” right now…

I guess it’s time for me to sit down and re-evaluate things =P
shelley

Sep 04 08, 10:03 pm PDT

125
This article is incredible. It has come at just the right time in my life, too. I have just started an online jewellery shop and have started a blog - ideally I’ll be able to make a living off of them sooooooon! I am still working part time though, because I don’t have enough saved up yet to quit completely. You are such an inspiration :) Thank you.
fran

Sep 05 08, 5:00 am PDT

126
Congratulations :) Your story is absolutly inspiring, specially for a young woman like me. I’m just 20, studying a career that I like (laws), but haven’t “love” yet. Your idea sounds amazing, but as for me, I’m gonna wait and see what I can do with my life after I get my diploma. I have never think that I could have a “regular” job (not even think about the typical lawyer work), but I truly think I could help lots of people with the knowledge I’ll have in 4 years (maybe blogging!).
Thanks a lot for this, again, not only are you helping people that already work, but also the ones that are starting the path…
Sara
Sep 06 08, 8:39 am PDT

127
This is so inspiring. Thank you!
Jolene

Sep 08 08, 1:16 pm PDT

128
Very cool, inspirational site. I’ll be passing it along to friends and colleagues. Thanks.
Ross

Sep 09 08, 3:16 am PDT

129
Great, great post…

Look forward to reading more of your articles - well done!

Very inspiring stuff!
Quitting The Day Job

Sep 09 08, 4:04 pm PDT

130
I love stories and advice like this. Most of us (if not all) would love to quit working for the man and make money for numero uno.

Congrats!
Rirath

Sep 12 08, 6:59 am PDT

131
My dream was always to quit the mundane retail jobs I was working in the Midwest and become a professional web dev. I felt I had the skill, I just needed the opportunity. After much saving and planning, this year I moved to San Diego to be with my girlfriend, and am now a saleried web dev full-time. I am very thankful to both her and God for my success.

Next up: Someday we want to start our own business and be self employed designers / devs. At this point, I’m willing to believe anything is possible with a little patience, planning, and faith.
Rumi Shivaz

Sep 12 08, 12:39 pm PDT

132
Hi Tina,

I recently read somewhere that the biggest employer in this world will be “Self” so welcome to the world of self employment.

My first attempt for quite the day job was in 1993, but it lasted only 3 months. I had to eat humble pie and go back to IBM.

My second attempt was in 1997, this time I managed to last 6 years. But my business became very complex and I got surrounded with wrong people. So end up crashing that business in 2003, lost heaps of money and almost went into bankruptcy.

Then I took a sales job to lick my wounds and build up some emotional strength. While the job provided good cash-flow, I wasn’t happy … so despite objection from my wife and daughter, I went back to self employment again in August 2005.

My vision was to build a business so that I can work with amazing minds from around the world and somehow make a living doing that. Three years since I started that journey, I’m living a dream life. It’s a simple business, something I can do until the day I die.

I work as an Innovation Consultant, helping people to bring their Ideas to reality. I have an idea that I like to share with you, which will allow you to build a good income stream using your core skills. If you like the idea, then I’m more than happy to be your first paying customer.

Drop me a line at rumi.shivaz@gmail.com if you would like to discuss this further. I have a very basic blog … www.rumi.typepad.com.

Cheers
Rumi
Wellington, New Zealand
Steve C

Sep 15 08, 9:33 am PDT

133
Hi Tina,

My wife recently quit her job as well to take care of the kids! We knew this ahead of time(9 months actually:)) so we planned ahead and started an online business to supplant her income! Stop by if you get a chance!. Congratulations on quitting!
Tycoon Dreamer | Tycoon Dreams

Oct 02 08, 12:03 am PDT

134
“Find a job you love and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” I’m not sure who said this. Maybe it was Confucius.
moserw

Oct 13 08, 7:12 pm PDT

135
I know exactly where you are coming from having done the same myself. The freedom and the joy of having it all and having it your way cannot be described. The best I love is the freedom to do it my way in my time. I just do what I desire when I desire.
D
Oct 21 08, 6:15 am PDT

136
Hi Tina.

Thank you for your tips. I’m glad I found your blog at a point in my life where I need to read what you’ve written on here. Thank you, thank you.
Kellen

Oct 29 08, 5:55 am PDT

137
What a wonderful article. Your site is truly inspirational and I hope to read more of it. Thank you so much for sharing.
Nicholas Powiull

Nov 02 08, 4:47 am PST

138
If you choose not to live your passion, then you will be lead to a list of unprogressing circumstances in your life. This list and downward steps will lead you to something similar to this:

1. Your unpassionate and unenthusiastic approach will lead you to a conventional way of giving value to receive small value in return. The value you give is limited to someone else’s idea, therefore limiting the value you can give. This conventional way is trading your time for money.

2. This approach leaves you feeling uninspired and perceiving the world around you through a conventional way. You begin to think outside yourself, rather then relying on inner sight. This conventional way limits your perspective to think that things are done this way because it is the only way. You feel forced into a system of concepts like: shoulds, should nots, and have tos.

3. You begin programming yourself to adopt these concepts. These concepts then lead to all levels of your life being limited inside the concepts themselves. These levels consist of the following:

* Working conventional jobs that you are not passionate or enthused about.
* Spending a great deal of your time with people who enforce these concepts, which gives you a reason to keep yourself limited.
* Using the free time that you do have, on activities that you do not enjoy.
* Getting up in the morning feeling unpassionate and unenthusiastic to make choices that would benefit the lifestyle you desire. You then force yourself to play-out your shoulds, should nots, and have tos. The cycle then repeats itself.

Conventional Approach is The Most Popular Program Being Ran
Why is this the programmed concepts most people run? The giver of these concepts was taught of this system and then handed it down through generation to generation. Their experience of these shoulds, should nots, and have tos concepts lead them to teach it and eventually live it. Why is it extremely difficult to change these programmed concepts? It is easier to listen to another’s experience (which leads to your experience being the same), then to listen to the insight of faith that there is another way.

Faith is the voice inside you that tells you of universal knowledge. Faith will tell you of the positive, optimistic, passion, inspiration, enthusiasm and all the things that empower you. Yet, faith (even on scientific level) is more powerful then most can fathom. In order to understand how faith gives power, you must first be aware of why life seems so limited in the first place. Science discovered that there is infinite potential everywhere making all things possible, but life is not experienced that way because we observe it. Yet they can not figure out what the observer has to do with it. The answer is that the observer limits what is being experienced through the filters of perspective, beliefs, expectations and experience. In essence, faith is one of the only things that can bypass any and every limit of the filters. It is indeed one of the most quickest, productive, and effortless ways of experiencing infinite potential.
Jeffrey B.

Nov 14 08, 11:30 am PST

139
Hi Tina,
What a great and inspiring story…Thank you for sharing!

I’ve had the privilege of being self employed out of my home for the past 7 years. I feel a certain vulnerability of how much I have come to embrace and enjoy the independence of not having to report to an office, answer to someone and be subjected to a set schedule every day.

Although my business offers a somewhat residual model of income, it still requires my involvement of at least 25 hours or more per week. If I don’t keep up this kind of involvement on a consistent basis throughout the year, my residual income would eventually dry up. My clients are corporate clients so the idea that my business is dependent upon Corporate America is also a little frightening to me.

For the past 2.5 years, my wife and I have been exploring different investment opportunities (all with the goal of creating passive income streams that would allow us to eventually transition out of our current business one day).

We made a significant dollar investment in getting educated in technical trading of the stock market as well as real estate investing.

18 months ago we leveraged practically all our assets and jumped into the real estate market in a big way. Unfortunately, the timing couldn’t have been worse and we have barely survived the experience financially. Thankfully, our home business is currently wrapping up it’s best year ever and has saved our family from what would have probably been certain bankruptcy.

The stock market education was valid though, I don’t see that really benefiting us until after we have already built our financial nest egg and have significant money to continue building upon.

I believe one of my best qualities in this life has been persistence. We learned a lot from this real estate experience and have actually come out of it with a sense of empowerment that we could take such a risk and leap of faith and still end up surviving it amid the circumstances.

For the past 9 months I have been drawn to getting more involved and educated on how the internet really works and have been exploring different opportunities to hopefully monetize into eventual passive income streams.

In addition, I have also started learning more about meditation and the role your brain and thoughts play regarding your success and happiness in life.

It’s been quite a journey so far!

The passive income streams have not started flowing yet however, I still remain very hopeful…

I hold to the belief that with continued and deliberate effort, we will prevail and achieve our goal of financial independence some day.

I just hope it happens when I’m still young enough to really enjoy it! :)

Thank you for allowing me to write.

To success!
Mokokoma Mokhonoana

Dec 08 08, 1:13 am PST

140
Inspirational.

I quit without planning ahead, I didn’t even know I was going to quit when I went to work!

I just couldn’t take it any more, it’s hell to be led (boss) by somebody who knows absolutely nothing about design (as a designer).

But I’m thankful I had the guts to do it!
Celes | EmbraceLiving.Net

Dec 20 08, 10:20 pm PST

141
Hi Tina, thanks for sharing your personal story :) It is very similar to my story actually - I also quit my day job a few months back because I want to pursue my life passion for helping people achieve the best out of their lives. I personally think wherever passion goes, everything will sort itself out - this has served me very well throughout my life so far.
Sanjay
Jan 04 09, 12:13 pm PST

142
Hi Tina,

Your article on Dream to Reality was really inspiring. It made me feel a little guilty because i took a decision in my life a few years back thinking that it would lead me to my dream. But, at the end i am stuck and forced to follow what others who have taken my path ‘normally’ do.

I am a medical graduate and i graduated last year. I always wanted to be a biochemist and then to work on Urey and Miller kind of experiments to find out how life originated on this planet from just atoms and molecules which are lifeless.

Ever since my boyhood i had always wondered “how come atoms and molecules are lifeless, but when they combine in a specfic fashion, they create life?” I thought biochemistry could answer that question. That is what propelled me to take up medicine, i assumed i could understand the most complex living thing, the humans, that way…..

Now that i have graduated and everybody wants me to pursue clinical medicine and work in a hospital, its not that i dont like treating patients….. but i tookup medicine for a different purpose, which keeps lingering in my mind.

I have never faced this kind of dilemma before and time is running out.

By the time i finished reading your article about following ones passion, there were tears on my eyes. It cleared my mind and added one more reason why i should follow my passion.
Earn money

Jan 21 09, 12:53 pm PST

143
I just found this article via Digg, and I’ve gotta say that it’s brilliant. I learned a lot from it!

Thank you, Tina!!

David
Michelle
Jan 24 09, 8:37 am PST

144
Congrats on following your heart, while you are young and before you have children. I didn’t have the courage, or confidence, or the smarts to do what you are doing when I was your age. Keep following your desires - whether that involves travelling, reading or whatever. Don’t let anyone convince you what you “should” be doing. If you listen to all of the “shoulds” from the people in this world, you would be following their path, and not your own.
Andre

Feb 26 09, 1:44 pm PST

145
Wow Tina I’m so grateful to have found your site. Financial independence has always been in my mind for so many years and reading about how you did it renewed my enthusiasm tenfold. Good on you for following your heart and achieving so much at such a young age!

Giving up a high paying job to plunge into the unknown is probably the biggest hurdle for most people, including myself. I feel that doing it gradually would be the right thing for me. My resolution is to do more of the things that make my heart sings, and to continuously think about how to generate passive income from things I’m passionate about. At this stage I’ve made some progress in the right direction, but no major breakthrough yet. Guess I still have limiting beliefs to be cleared… I’ve been pursuing one of my strongest passions (classical guitar, piano) more in the last 2 years and I’m quite happy with the result so far, with gig offers coming more often and effortlessly. It’s not passive income but it’s immensely enjoyable for me so why not :-). Blogging to inspire people (just like you do!) is another thing I’m aching to do as I feel it’s also my calling to help raising the consciousness level. Well for now I’ll just enjoy the ride and learn, learn, learn.

By the way have you read Tim Ferriss’ 4 Hour Work Week (http://www.fourhourworkweek.com)? This is one of my all time favorites, it opened my eyes to see what’s possible.

Keep your inspiring posts coming Tina!

Andre
Biofuels

Mar 10 09, 7:08 am PDT

146
What an amazing article. Really inspiring! Thank you for sharing it with us.

Michelle
Daviece
Mar 22 09, 4:08 pm PDT

147
Thanks so much for this article. Exactly what I needed right at this very moment. I quit my job as an Ad Exec this past November to pursue a dream of opening a hair salon. I do get scared many a day, but this article just gave me that bit of motivation I needed! I will definitely be following your journey. THANK U!
The NetKnucklehead

May 13 09, 11:49 am PDT

148
A BIG congratulations on reaching your goal of becoming a full-time blogger. I too am on a journey to escape the cubicle walls. As I sit here today, I can hear one of my cube neighbors on one side humming and singing to herself as she listens to her iPod and on the other side is the guy who coughs like a horse every 2-3 minutes. Plus, we’re in the middle of a reorg and I don’t know if my job will be eliminated or not. Isn’t corporate job life grand? Anyway, I wish you all the best on your new journey. Maybe I will see you “on the other side” one day.
Alison | Quest for Balance

Jun 19 09, 11:05 pm PDT

149
I am definitely on a path towards doing things differently, though at the moment I don’t know what the next version of “different” will look like for me. Thanks for walking us through your path and showing us (not just telling us) that transforming your life is possible. This post is very inspirational.
Chris
Jun 30 09, 7:02 pm PDT

150
cool ^^

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