Navigating Career Crossroads with a Baby on the Way

Hey there, Bleu Bells!

Today, I'm diving into the depths of a major life crossroads—balancing a career while gearing up for motherhood. It's like standing at the edge of two cliffs, trying to figure out how to bridge the gap between my current 9-to-5 and my passion project, Shaybleu. Some days, I feel inspired; others, I feel unmotivated. I am trying to juggle why I think this way and get out of it. I love writing Shaybleu, but my energy level is not at Shaybleu level at all times, and I wouldn't say I like that, but again, I know I am human. But let’s get back to the topic of this blog this week. I am juggling my 9 to 5 while pursuing my passion for creating content with the Shaybleu blog and YouTube channel.

Right now, my job pays the bills. It's stable, reliable, and honest, providing the financial security every soon-to-be mom would worry about. But then, there's Shaybleu—my heart, my passion, the dream I've been nurturing piece by piece. It's more than just a hobby; it's what I love and represents the legacy I want to build and share with my little one. But this is all up to me. Shaybleu depends on me. Not on a set schedule or pre-made job responsibilities, and that’s the scary part. Can I handle everything? Actions speak louder than words. But what are my actions truly showing?

I need to create more content is what this is showing…

We all say we want to be entrepreneurs, but can we have all the pressure, ideas, decisions, money loss, employees, etc, on us? We tend to ignore the truth, grit, and work ethic it takes to run your business. This shit is not for the weak or sensitive, I tell you. It looks easy for those that are successful on YouTube and social media, but this shit is truly hard work and dedication. Everyone is not a master at building this lifestyle. Don’t get me wrong, the lifestyle looks amazing, but what does that come with?

Here's the real talk: I'm scared. There's a comfort in the routine of a 9 to 5, a certain predictability that comes with a steady paycheck. Financial stability is something I’ve always needed, wanted, and strived for. It gives me a sense of comfort knowing how much money I will make every two weeks. But it also keeps me comfortable and small because I know I can obtain financial freedom with Shaybleu. I know I can do more with my content. Create more, stay consistent, build a system, sustain a community, and discuss topics that interest me and thousands of people, but I am taking the easy way out by staying comfortable in my 9 to 5. Now that I am having a baby, I feel the urge to do more with Shaybleu, but I need to sustain this urge even with Sariah here or not. I must sustain this fire in my belly because it is truly wanted. I constantly feel this fierce longing to dive into Shaybleu full-time and grow it into something that fulfills me creatively and supports us financially.

This is almost 9 years ago when I wanted to first create a blog…

The question is, can I keep this up? Can my content grow as I continue to grow? Will I make the sacrifices and leaps to make this happen? Will I do what it takes, even when tired or unmotivated? Can I push through? Will I be able to perform or fold? How do I keep it going?

If I no longer depend on the clock-in system, how do I clock into my passion project every day when the money may never be consistent, days I may not want to create content, when I have a deadline I missed, when I’m sick, and people start to give up on me if I am not consistent. This is what can and will happen. Will I be able to control how I react? Can I be Lebron James and consistently be the best for 20-plus years?

The big question keeps me up at night: How do I leap without jeopardizing our stability? How do I ensure that chasing my dream doesn't mean sacrificing our security?

Here’s how I'm approaching this conundrum:

1. Strategic Planning: Mapping out a financial and business plan for Shaybleu that outlines realistic milestones and timelines.

2. Building a Safety Net: Ensuring I have enough savings to cover us during the transition period.

3. Gradual Transition: I will increase the time and resources I dedicate to Shaybleu while still holding onto my job until I reach a tipping point where it's safe to switch.

4. Seeking Support: Engaging with other mom entrepreneurs who've navigated this path and can offer guidance and support.

This journey isn't just about making a career switch; it's about shaping a future where I can thrive as a professional and a mom. It's about not settling for the comfortable choice but daring to fulfill my personal and professional aspirations.

I'd love to hear from you as I navigate these choppy waters. How have you managed significant life transitions? Do you have any advice for this soon-to-be mom on how to balance passion and practicality?

Until next time, keep striving and thriving, Bleu Bells! 💙