The entrepreneurship journey is paved with twists, turns, and unexpected surprises. Mine is no exception. From a career in TV & Video production to teaching, I’ve traversed diverse paths, each shaping the businessperson I am today. This is my story, the story of The 25th Hour, and how it rose from a relentless search for purpose.
Discovering a New Direction:
It all began in high school when I fell in love with video production, specifically editing videos. I loved the work and the creative process. I didn’t get into my number one choice college, which meant I didn’t pursue TV and Video production as a career, but eventually fell back on my production experience. After moving to DC with dreams of working for Discovery Channel (which did happen), I realized that the producer’s chair wasn’t where I wanted to be. Moving up the ladder as a producer meant I would have to write, which wasn’t an interest of mine, and as a freelancer, I went from gig to gig which wasn’t ideal.
After several years I found myself at a crossroads. I loved the jobs when I got them, but I was yearning for something more. The “something more” was teaching and it found me during one of my freelance jobs, a PBS production for Reading Rockets.
Embarking on a New Chapter:
A new chapter opened when I decided to switch gears and step into the world of education. I pursued a Master’s degree at William & Mary and then embarked on a teaching journey that took me to three different schools over four years. However, the constant transitions, coupled with a heavy workload, left me exhausted and yearning for a change.
Finally, in 2006, I found the courage to let go. Driving home one day with U2’s “Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” playing on the radio, I knew it was time to find my true calling.
Finding My Calling:
After a series of informational interviews and short-term roles in different industries including working with a nonprofit for adults with disabilities, a friend of mine introduced me to the concept of a Virtual Assistant (VA). I was intrigued. The idea of being able to provide support and make a meaningful impact from afar resonated with me.
In 2012, I finally took the plunge. I had my first client, a medical writer, and a few others I consulted with. And then, I knew I needed a name, a brand, something that represented me and the service I wanted to provide. After a few brainstorming sessions and a mass email to friends asking for help, The 25th Hour was born.
The 25th Hour: A Dream Realized:
The journey was far from over. I continued to build The 25th Hour, taking on diverse clients and learning new skills. I was determined to make this work; to build a business that not only provided value to others but also allowed me to lead a balanced life.
Now, looking back, I can see how every step, every decision, and every turn has led me here. From a reluctant entrepreneur to the proud owner of The 25th Hour, my journey has been an extraordinary one, shaped by resilience, a pursuit of meaning, and a desire to make a difference.
Conclusion:
My journey continues, as does the journey of The 25th Hour. Today’s iteration of The 25th Hour looks nothing like where I started in 2012. I am forever grateful for the twists and turns that have brought me to where I am today. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the path to finding your calling isn’t always a straight line — and it’s worth every step.