The ups and downs of my career change: From executive to ceramic artisan

Changing careers is often compared to a leap into the unknown. For me, transitioning from a tailored suit to a ceramic artisan's smock was an adventure filled with emotions, challenges, and discoveries. Here's an honest look at the ups and downs of this career change journey.

The initial doubts: did I make the right choice?

I still remember that morning when, for the first time, I woke up without having to rush to the office. A mixture of excitement and fear washed over me. Had I really left a stable, well-paid job to pursue a craft? The first few days were marked by moments of euphoria, followed by periods of intense doubt. Every time I watched my savings dwindle, a knot of anxiety formed in my stomach.

Practical aspects: a new world to tame

The transition from salaried employment to self-employment was a real culture shock. I had to quickly familiarize myself with concepts that were previously unfamiliar to me: legal status, accounting, inventory management, marketing. These were all areas where I felt inexperienced and sometimes overwhelmed.

Training was a crucial step. I took intensive ceramics courses to perfect my technique, but I also had to train in business management. Each day brought new knowledge, sometimes stimulating, sometimes overwhelming.

The financial challenge: managing uncertainty

The financial aspect was undoubtedly the biggest challenge. Going from a fixed salary to an irregular and uncertain income wasn't easy. I had to learn to manage a tight budget, plan for downtime, and invest wisely in equipment.

I remember my first sale: a small mug I had lovingly crafted. The amount was modest, but the satisfaction was immense. It was proof that my dream could come true.

Support (or not) from those around you: a crucial factor

The support of my loved ones was invaluable throughout this process. My husband, in particular, was my rock, encouraging me in moments of doubt. However, not everyone understood my approach. Some friends and family members expressed skepticism, sometimes in hurtful ways. I had to learn to filter opinions, surround myself with positive people, and believe in myself despite the criticism.

The first successes: a long-awaited validation

Every small victory was celebrated as a major achievement. My first regular customer or my first positive review. These moments were like breaths of fresh air, confirming that I was on the right track.

I particularly remember one day when a client told me that my ceramics had brought joy to her home. It was then that I truly realized the positive impact my work could have on others.

Chess: Valuable Lessons

Of course, it wasn't all rosy. There were failures, moments of discouragement. Failed pieces, canceled orders, days when inspiration seemed to have deserted me. Each failure was painful, but also educational. I learned to bounce back, to learn from my mistakes, to see each difficulty as an opportunity for improvement.

Work-life balance: a new challenge

Ironically, even though I had retrained to find a better balance, I found myself working nonstop. My passion for my craft drove me to spend hours in my studio, sometimes at the expense of my personal life. I had to learn to set boundaries, allow myself time to rest, and not let my work invade every aspect of my life.

Personal satisfaction: the greatest reward

Despite the difficulties, doubts, and moments of stress, I don't regret my decision for a moment. The satisfaction of creating with my hands, of seeing my ideas take shape in clay, is incomparable. Every day, I wake up eager to go to my studio, curious about what creative challenges the day will bring.

In conclusion: a worthwhile adventure

Changing career paths is not an easy one. It's a road fraught with pitfalls and doubts, but also with intense joys and profound satisfactions. To anyone considering a career change, I would say this: prepare yourself for challenges, but don't be afraid to follow your passion. With perseverance, hard work, and a little luck, you can make your dream a reality.

My career change taught me that success isn't measured solely in financial terms, but also in personal fulfillment. Today, when I look back on how far I've come, I'm proud. Proud to have dared, proud to have persevered, and above all, proud to have created a life that truly reflects me.