Brand Story – Part 1: From burnout to a free(lance) life

Sharing your brand story isn’t always about sunshine and happiness. But having a core of your brand that influences you and your values every day is something that you need to share in order to help people understand you and what you are standing up for. I guess it’s finally my turn after pushing many of my lovely clients to share theirs with me.

My story started back in 2015 when I went on a roadtrip to sunny California. Upon returning to the office, I experienced my first panic attack. At that time, I was living a life on paper that many young people dream of: I was working at the marketing department of a French Financial Institution, had a steady job, a loving family and friends, and was going out regularly and enjoying life. It was perfect… until it wasn’t.

After a burnout that left me without my usual positive attitude and appetite, I had to face the reality that my dream life of a corporate marketing manager may not be mine. So, in May 2016, I made the decision to take actions and quit my job.

I then set off on a journey of self-discovery, traveling around Europe, volunteering, and ticking off items on my bucket list. I volunteered, lived by the ocean in Iceland, saw whales, learned to meditate and surf in Portugal, and most importantly, I learned to love my life again.

As I look back on my experience, I’m filled with gratitude for all that has happened. Having a burnout, panic attacks, depression, and hating my everyday life were not signs of failure, but rather signs that I needed to understand. These signs were guiding me to a better self and pushing me to fight for my dreams and live a fulfilling life. Challenges were pushing me to take action and realize my ambitions.

During this journey, I had the opportunity to meet many talented solo business owners who were actively building their dreams every day. I was inspired by these people and wanted to help them succeed. That’s when my freelance life started and the first steps of my own brand discovery began.

My message to you is to not be afraid to take risks and fight for your dreams. Life is too short to spend it working in a job that doesn’t make you happy. With courage and professionalism, you can live a life full of meaning and purpose.

Because you are the author of this so-called brand story.

Pictures from my volunteer life in 2016, when I was depressed and underweight, but little by little coming back to life Photos:  Tungulending Guesthouse Iceland & 9ninelives Surf Villa & Hostel Lagos Portugal