From Unexpected Change to Independent Success
Posted on Feb. 26, 2026 / Perspectives / Subscribe 0
I always remember how long I’ve been an independent practitioner: 11 years, which is the age of my daughter. My agency role was eliminated shortly after I returned from my second maternity leave. It wasn’t the path I expected, but it opened the door to a career that has given me more work/life balance than I ever imagined.
Starting out was equal parts scary and exciting. I was fortunate to have a strong support system. My husband had a full-time job with benefits, and more importantly, he had perspective. His permission to experiment with this new adventure (and perhaps fail) gave me the courage to try.
When you go solo, you quickly realize you’re not just doing client work. You are also the CEO, the CFO, the VP of Business Development, the Learning and Development Director and the People and Culture Lead. You’re invoicing clients, signing up for your next webinar to keep your skills sharp and reminding yourself that yes, you can absolutely figure this out…sometimes all before school pickup.
Building a professional network is critical to success, and I didn’t have much of one when I started on my own. This is where groups like PRSA are helpful. I didn’t simply attend meetings. I volunteered for committees and boards to get the most out of my involvement.
Presenting on solopreneurship with Mark Mohammadpour, APR, Fellow PRSA, at the Western District Conference in Honolulu
Along the way, I’ve spoken at PRSA ICON, presented twice at the PRSA Midwest District Conference on solopreneurship, taught in PRSA’s International Communications Certificate program and served as a PRSA Silver Anvil Awards judge.
For many years, it was just me. I relied on coffee dates and lunches with other solo practitioners to brainstorm, share ideas and remind each other that we weren’t doing this alone. Today, my solopreneur practice has grown into a small business and my husband works alongside me. Eleven years in, I can say with confidence that it was worth it.
Attending IMEX, a global tradeshow for the meeting and incentive industry, to conduct editor briefings for a client
Going solo isn’t easy. But if you’re willing to wear multiple hats, build real relationships, keep learning and laugh at yourself along the way, it can be incredibly rewarding.
If you’re considering it, I’m cheering you on.
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