Previously, I shared how I first discovered and started doing voiceovers, and the mindset changes I had to make in order to turn from employee to business owner.
It was not a quick, easy process, reclaiming my subconscious mind after decades of being under someone else’s control. I still have to keep myself from slipping into old habits, even now.
To briefly recap: We are all powerful creators - worthy, magical beings on this magical ball of life hurtling through outer-space not to suffer endlessly, but to live fulfilling lives of abundance, creativity and fun. All caught up? Great! Moving on!
Once that little chunk of my brain woke up, I had more preparations to make. I had bills and medical insurance to pay, and momma’s got pre-existing conditions. I, like so many other freelancers on the side hustle struggle bus, couldn’t just up and quit the day job on a whim.
Finding many folks in similar situations and asking around for creative solutions to the medical insurance problem resulted in several answers, ranging from amusing to downright perturbing.
“Go without and hope you don’t get sick or break a bone.”
Yikes, got that t-shirt when I was a graphic designer - aka “starving artist.” Walking into a doctor’s office with a sign above the door that literally said, “Discount Doctor” in the absolute sketchiest, “sus”sest part of town you could imagine was pretty much the reason I left the private sector in favor of a government job with benefits in the first place.
“Have your husband put you on his insurance.”
I don’t bat for that team, Becky, but thanks for the input. Seriously, though, how nauseatingly co-dependent is that?? I mean, that’s almost as bad as not being able to quit a job because you’re tied at the neck by the healthcare system. Only, you’re tied at the neck by your significant other’s insurance. I don’t think that’s how significant other-hood is supposed to work, but what do I know, I'm still single.
While those options weren’t feasible for me, luckily my day job hadn’t quite reached maximum toxicity just yet. I still had some time to prepare.
1. Do NOT rage quit the full time job, no matter how tempting it might be. No good decision is ever made in anger or impatience, or any other low vibe state of mind. If it's a planned departure, leave on a positive note and bask in those good vibes. If it's an unplanned departure, cut or layoff, a knee-jerk emotional reaction is understandable! We're only human. Just try to be as gracious and positive as possible, and know that something better is in the works! If not this, then something BETTER.
2. Ideally, at least match the full time income with what’s coming in from the "side hustle." Some folks suggest double or even TRIPLE the full time income. Sure, no problem, right? Right.
3. SAVE for at least 6 months of expenses, and anticipate some surprises along the way. The more the merrier. I managed to save for a year's worth, including...
4. Health insurance! Because insurance is freaking expensive. Health care without insurance is much worse, unfortunately.
5. Take a short time to breathe, regroup and ease into the newfound super-powers, and prepare to kick some butt.
6. Kick butt.
Saving for retirement and taxes was among those priorities from the get-go, because nobody wants any unpleasant surprises from Uncle Sam! I don't trust myself with that kind of math, so I secured a financial advisor and a tax preparer who are much better at number crunching than I am. Is it possible to save some cost and do it yourself? Certainly. But I figure, why deprive yourself of someone else’s expertise if it will help you prepare for a solid retirement? I’m all for supporting the economy, and surrounding myself with a great team of professionals who can help me out in areas that aren’t necessarily my strengths.
And finally, another pillar that’s massively helpful to have in any endeavor, is support from the family. I’ve been very fortunate to be able to enjoy the enthusiastic support of my tiny, close-knit family in all of my crazy adventures. I’m thrilled to be able to return the favor and help them enjoy their golden years in relative ease, comfort and security.
A fitting way to close this episode, on a note of gratitude.
So after making the leap, what’s the difference between hitting the ground running, and jumping from the frying pan into the fire?
Let’s chat about that next time!
If you'd like to book me for your next voiceover project, head on over to voicesbystorm.com or contact me directly at: storm@voicesbystorm.com