Turn Setbacks Into Strength

It's January 2024 and I had just left my job to become a full-time creator.

I was still recovering from burnout after years of overextending myself in my previous role.

This year was about:

• Giving myself better conditions to recover.
• Align work with passion.
• Survive my first year in business.
• Have the freedom to pursue new creative opportunities.
  

Kicked off the the year by securing a dream collaboration with Peak Design.

Signed a couple of freelance clients.

Signed a lease on a new office.

Things where looking promising.

Until all of my previous health issues flared-up and with that came some of the most crippling health problems I’ve ever faced.

• Doctor appointment after doctor appointment.
  
• Test after test.
  
• Treatment after treatment.
  
• Nothing seemed to help, and I was only getting worse.
  
• The symptoms, the medications and all the worry consumed me.

I wanted to take control of my life, but instead I lost it completely.

My main prioritets was now to: Regain my health and try to not go bankrupt.

Even if the the symtoms, medications and the worry ruined me. I tired to focus on what I could control. 

• I created a routine. 
  
• Stuck to my good habits. 
  
• Carefully prioritize the most important tasks. 
  
• Got my reps in. Locked in my diet. 
  
• Practiced my mental strength.
  

Basically did everything within my power to get better.

In September, I finally started to see a relief in symptoms.

It was like coming out of a stressful shift during peak hours that lasted for five months. I was exhausted and slept a lot...

Perhaps the year didn’t go as planned, but there are a few wins:

• I survived my first year in business (while working only 3-4 hours a day).
• Reached $10,000 in brand collaborations.
• 10x’d my Shopify sales.
• Healed from an autoimmune disease.
• Anxiety attacks have stopped.
• Spent a lot of time with my family.
• Built new friendships.

By far, the biggest win this year was regaining control of my mental and physical health.
I feel more confident than ever in my ability to face whatever challenges life throws at me.

2024, thank you for the lessons.