THE HARSH REALITY ABOUT WORKING FOR YOURSELF | QUITTING YOUR JOB IN 2021

[@jessiefreeman2751]

Thanks Karen, l am 70, thinking l am at wits end, because of how old l am, but you have TRULY encouraged me, I will achieve what l want to do. YES!!!. BE BLESSED.

[@beverlysingleton8792]

Tomorrow I'll be 66 and yes gurl' we've got to keep going! I said that I was buckling down in September and start blogging. So this is an additional nudge to find me an assistant (tech) & get going.🤔☺️ You can do it💜

[@TheSexemama1]

Love that, Find your own tribe .

[@roslynjones5886]

Good for you!!! I would like to do something on the side, but I don’t know what!!! I work for the city and am 55 years old. Wishing you complete success.

[@eagleeye2427]

Wow! I applaud you! At 77 you’re still encouraged to do something! Some people at your age will just think of waiting for death. Go! And achieve what you want in life! 😃🙌🏻 I hope and pray you get it🙏🏻.

[@beverlysingleton8792]

@@mazamamina7948 Thank you 💖

[@joannehenry4595]

I am living on the small pension I have from being a college professor, a vocation I loved. I have no real savings but am working on going back to my first love music/theater professional. Older wiser with less time in front of me than behind me. But here I go! Wish me luck!

[@FromCocotoChanel]

Please do a part 2 . Also congratulations on your amazon line doing so well

[@eteldias5176]

Thank you Karen. I find myself putting in time to always look coherent, elegant and prepare outfits ahead of time but I have a special energy for interior design. Because we have properties I have been able to do it noticing ppl loving what I come up with. I am now at 62 going back to school...Design school. I feel like my life is starting all over again. How lucky!!!

[@deborahcraven6435]

Sounds exiting , good luck with your new adventure!!

[@isinallos]

Best of luck!!

[@dr-k1667]

Perfect timing for these days and times. I left corporate life over a decade ago. Has it been easy, no, but it has been much more satisfying and exciting and rewarding than working for others who either didn't appreciate my talents or didn't pay for the value I brought to the table. Nothing beats setting yourself up for success and working for your betterment, not to just pay bills. Anything can pay a bill, but I wanted my soul, mind and body even to be at my best. Thanks for encouraging and sharing your story Karen!

[@ninawestlake5005]

That!

[@ValerieArmstrongSasfrasone]

Thanks for this Karen, I too was laid off sometime ago and have ALWAYS loved fashion even as a child but allowed others to put in my head its more important to be realistic working a job you hate so you can pay the bills. Well I did that for corporate America for 34 yrs and later laid off. I have started a my own journey its been a few years. Yes it is hard, and just this week thought of quitting and just finding something to bring in money. However you sparked hope in me. Not to quit. I must say I'm in my later years and would only advise your younger audience to don't wait until you get older to pursue your dreams. Not to say at an older age you won't succeed but you'll have more time to enjoy what you ALWAYS wanted to do.

[@marilynm.187]

Yes please do a part 2! You’d be helping so many ppl! Thank you for being open to share information not everyone would and for not sugar coating anything. You are real!

[@shanaright]

I admire the freelancers (especially on KZbin). You always create content that is relevant to your viewers. I appreciate y’all. Thank you, Karen!

[@KarenBritChick]

You are so welcome!

[@sonyaearly]

I rank this right up there with one of the BEST videos you’ve done!!! Thank you so much for sharing. I would like to see a part 2 on what/how to ask for what you are worth. Oh and I must say your rendition of people saying “I can’t believe” was hilarious! Keep of the great work Karen, you do it so well!!!

[@KarenBritChick]

Thank you! Will do!

[@megmazuraniccourtney1591]

@@KarenBritChick, I would also LOVE to see the part 2 on what to ask for dollar-wise, how to know what you are worth, and generally how to contact/approach companies for collaboration!

[@annethuirne3184]

A part two...yes please!

[@dianel958]

I have started two businesses in the 30 years since grad school and although there have been ups and downs (hello recession!) I would not change it for anything. I am nearly set for an early retirement and looking into my next adventure...I am 56 and have plenty of ideas but it must involve clothes :) I hope to start a gallery/retail store here in my city..there now it's out in the universe. Karen you are such a kickass person! thanks for all the inspo in all the things.

[@leens4190]

This is fabulous! What’s your story? What motivated you to get started? I’d love to know more. Thanks!

[@janetthomas8244]

@@leens4190 me too

[@aprilbloodgate9832]

I want to say thank you for this video. Its been a struggle going back to working for someone else after I lost my freelance opportunities at the beginning of 2020. I truly miss it. But I need to do it correctly. I can't just jump into the next chapter unprepared and this video helped knock sense back into me. There are tons of KZbinrs out there promoting the cold turkey quit. Everyone is different and not everyone has a nest egg or partner or parents or YT/residual income to quit. Hoping to make some good things soon and work my way there. ❤

[@ginaparchment3642]

You are so inspiring, I have done so many of what you talked about. I had a 9 to 5 that I hated as well, I felt ridiculous in the office because everything was so wrong, I felt like I was wasting my time is not where I wanted to be. Thank the Lord thing changed and I jumped and never looked back. I work more now but is exactly what I want to do, you could say I am a workaholic. I'm a Fashion Designer.... I really had to work very hard and still have so much to accomplish, and yes friend and family would not take you seriously until they see other strangers paying attention, it happen to me... I am always thinking on my next step and Projects I'm nerver off yesss is because I really love what I do I can't stop thinking about all aspects fashion. It was refreshing to hear your advice and recommendations coming from a creative fashionable mind it makes a world of difference. Thank you so much!

[@KarenBritChick]

oh wow you are helping ME just reading this!! see? we are all going through the same sh** LOL!!

[@foxyboots]

I quit job in factory and start doing what I love - I am sharing my boots passion ! it is just because you Karen, I watched you, you inspaired me a lot, and I said I WILL TRY ! and THANK YOU FOR IT ! THANK YOU

[@janicebr29]

Great honest video, Karen. This is why that saying that is circulating everywhere "do what love and you'll never work a day in your life" is BS, because there is a lot of work involved doing what you love, just like you mentioned. The difference is that at end of the day, week, month, year.. you have that feeling of fulfillment and of being true to yourself, instead of feeling like you're wasting the energy of your life, and of betraying yourself when you're working a job that has no meaning to you.

[@KarenBritChick]

Well said!

[@JaCaraKM]

This is exactly what I needed to hear today. I’ve been working as a freelance physician for the last 5 years and have been doing KZbin for the last 11 years. I love what I do on KZbin and have fallen out of love with being a physician especially over the last year. I want to concentrate on what I love which is creating lifestyle content. I feel like it is the truest expression of who I am and I can spend hours on it without blinking an eye. I started to doubt if it was worth my time because I seem to be stuck at low subscriber numbers. I translated that into me being “not pretty enough” or “not likable”. I started to give up and become inconsistent which just keeps me stuck. I’m tired of being afraid to go for what I want. Friends and family tell me that I’m crazy for wanting to leave my doctor job but they don’t have to live my life. Thank you for the inspiration today! I have been watching you since the very beginning and your success is well deserved and earned. Keep on doing big things and living authentically. PS: I would love to see a Part 2 on how to negotiate pay with brands, sponsors, etc.

[@celestiakock7207]

I just discovered you and I'm obsessed, I love the fact that you find inspiration in everything. Thank you for the video, as a creative wanting to take the leap, it's exactly what I needed, I will definitely be coming back to this video. To answer the question, I would like to tailor thrifted finds, have a blog and vlog. Also, be a private vegan chef and have my vegan ice cream store.

[@lesliegelber]

Thank you for showing us it’s ok to be vulnerable. Going beyond fear, no matter what our journey is. Your truth is powerful. I am grateful I got to meet you out on the NYC streets. Carry on. I tune in 2x a week. It’s the best show going.

[@leens4190]

Thank you Karen. Would love a Part 2 on what to charge, how your prices differ from what non POC influencers can/are paid, and how you navigate which brands to work with in the era of Me Too and BLM. Xx Thank you!

[@brittneyk0158]

As the saying goes…..”We should never judge a book by its cover!” THANK YOU for sharing this insight! You are meant to be where you are! Your dedication, passion and enthusiasm are all INFECTIOUS!

[@heyuitskarla]

I would appreciate a part 2! Thank you so much for sharing this with us.

[@aprylbrown6848]

Thank you for using your journey of success to inspire others!

[@codacraft]

I started my jewelry business 6 years ago in my living room. I am now in my 5th year in a shop of my own. The “yes, but” will take you down. What my challenge is now is to scale.

[@theresathomas-dollard2257]

Karen, thanks for sharing your story and experiences. I believe you’re so right that we should be doing what we’re passionate about. It’s so important, and it makes us happier, more productive, and we could inspire and motivate others as you’re doing. I agree having that safety net is important and a must. We’re never to old to follow our true passion. Thanks for the encouragement! 💕!!

[@ssatpath]

This was great. Writing this comment to request a Part 2 that has more info on anything you are ok wi/ sharing with all of us :) Thank you!

[@PossumLover1111]

You are a remarkable woman and a fantastic role model for all women. Thank you!

[@marciajacquelinemyrie8407]

Excellent video, Karen. I so needed to hear this. I’m taking my first steps towards doing what you do. At the age of 57 I’ve done loads of things that I haven’t enjoyed, so now I’m starting with baby steps doing fashion content. It’s scary though. Thanks a billion for the advice xxx

[@kimberlymyhre6142]

I really appreciate your candid conversation in this video. Please do a part 2!

[@elizabethhelen9388]

Love this! So encouraging. I just stepped forward last month is starting my interior design business. Like you said, doing what you love! It is terrifying and overwhelming, but I don’t let that stop me - I am pressing forward. Continue shining your light because you are an amazing inspiration!

[@emilyidina9651]

You really couldn’t be more right when talking about people you’re going to please vs the ones you’re not especially those closest to you. I feel like they’re watching and faking like they’re happy for you but they’re really not because they will never have the courage to even try. I have started to become more present online photography wise yet I need to get out of my head about being in front of the camera. (Not a fan of my raspy voice, yet men love it LOL) Girl I love fashion, writing, make-up and considering a potential acting career! Lord Take The Wheel 🙏🏾💕

[@MyTaylordCloset]

This was great Karen please do a part 2. Such good tips and life lessons.

[@sharonautrey8569]

When you do what you love you don't work a day in your life. I believe that and I am tired of working, I want to do what I love. Thanks Karen

[@veronikakhan9865]

Karen, thank you for this video! I was meant to see it, but for a different reason :) I just realize how much I enjoy my 9-6 job (had some doubts couple of years ago but couldn’t really find anything else that I would like to do as a job), and I love the company that I work in, and at the same time I loooove watching KZbin, your videos in particular! Your content is awesome, I wish you all the luck in the world and also with luck to all the people out there who get inspired by you advice and support and decide to do something new!

[@daizzeebouey4283]

This is fantastic Karen! Please MORE, MORE!

[@miki09l]

well, I want to thank you, not for the content of your advice, since I got familiar with it walking my own similar path, but for the way you presented it; rarely do people manage to walk this thin line between pure enthusiasm and the harsh reality of things :)

[@lornadune6024]

This is a great topic especially now. On an unrelated note, I love that couch. It’s beautiful.

[@jeannemilnes2254]

Love this Karen! Yes, part 2 please! You are inspirational. Thanks for sharing.

[@wanyuchang]

I can't stop watching this video, this is so inspiring, thank you Karen 🥺

[@HiiColey]

Love love love how animated you are!

[@Jadekoroma]

Thanks so much for the encouragement. What resonated was you saying the excuses we make can be the reason we go for it! I need to stop making excuses and just go for it and do what I have to do to be successful. Thanks again!

[@gaeletchaffa1730]

‘’Crawl before you can walk before you can run!’’ is what I retained from this very informative video! So inspiring!🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@feeloutthewindow]

The sentence "who is having the last laugh now!?" is EPIC! You're totally right Karen! I ADORE you! Thanks for this video! 😁👍👍

[@e.walloch590]

Thank you for sharing the nitty-gritty parts of what it takes to create what you create on multiple platforms. I think a lot of people need road maps such as what you just presented to get going and not find themselves in dire straits. Not everyone has the "executive" mind or skills to start something and see it through. You made some excellent points. I wish our educational system offers courses for alternative careers just like I wish they teach basic budgeting and interviewing skills. Another excellent vlog!!

[@kimberlyslater4226]

Yes please do a part two, Karen! Thanks for the kick in the pants: STOP MAKING EXCUSES! I so needed to hear this today. 👊🏼🔥

[@amybruce7350]

I SO needed this today, wow! I'm an Art Teacher, but my long term goal has always been to be a full time artist. I'm close to retirement but teaching now is utter chaos & is taking a toll on my physical & mental health. Ugh, thank you so much for this push...you're the BEST!!! 💜

[@JaciraDeMatos]

Excellent video Karen! I’m currently toying with the idea of quitting but the fear is huge so I just started my KZbin and I’m hoping that it works out! Please do a part 2, it’s necessary!

[@cinemaocd1752]

Thank you for bringing up Michael and your financial situation in detail. I've been in that situation where I had the insurance, the savings and the good credit and my boyfriend at the time was struggling and people thought I was with him for his money. It's just misogyny and it's a kind of toxic way of thinking about people. Also, it's not very flattering to either of you! You guys seem really well matched in personalities and values and that is what is important.

[@mercedesfoster8257]

Thank for the real talk. This was so helpful and would love a part 2!

[@samanthamadison7249]

Chile, you know we need a Part 2!! Please and Thank you!! 😘🥰😁

[@natashatrim5845]

Absolutely adore your transparency. Please do a part 2!

[@thecolorrachel]

this is so inspiring. thank you for being so real and genuine and vulnerable - please don’t change!

[@Cassandra-..-]

Love your energy and enthusiasm. And the reality checks. A master class!

[@louise-yo7kz]

These videos are very important. It helps to keep people motivated and also to tap into their creativity

[@mazzp]

Hey Karen, thank you so much for this! You were actually speaking to me ❤️👌🏾

[@ladyqqt]

On a day I was seriously questioning what I've done for the last five years as an entrepreneur, I turn on the television and there you are. Exhale...you hit every single point as an entrepreneur that I've experienced and continue to experience today. I just want to say thank you for being CONFIRMATION to stay the course and keep going. 🙋🏾‍♀️🙌🏾💪🏾❤

[@anitaandrews7249]

Bravo! Hip hip hurray and all the other grand salutations that can describe this video. This was a great piece of work for those that needed some encouragement to push forward. Thanks Karen!

[@claudettewalker8358]

Karen, you are a truly gifted motivator. This came at the right time for me. Thanks! Yes, we need Part 2!

[@frankfrantisek]

Karen, this is such a synchronicity. Absolutely perfect timing. I have had a strong calling to go on my own for a while and always got sidetracked by the excuses you mentioned. In fact, it screams at me from everywhere and it feels like not 50% but 90% of the office would say they don't do what they love. It's a narrative of our culture. When my mum died 6 years ago, I was left with an urgent message from her. Follow your heart! I couldn't get that out of my head as if she was telling me from seeing the meaning of life from the other side. Sounds like a cliche but it took me years and a lot of pain to really get what that means. All the limiting believes we collect over time from everywhere, the distorted view of ourselves, the prejudices, conventions, identity cushioning etc. So much to untangle and let go of. I have always loved music, art and all its expressions - songwriting, beats, instrumentation and arrangement, harmonising, lyrics, drumming, free dance, ballet, theatrical music, score and even choreography, movement meditation, artistic skating, architecture, poetry, all of it. Life is music to me and I came here to generate joy and channel new ideas and structures, inspire and ignite sparks of pure joyful life in others by enabling this truest part of me to come to light. Wish me luck everyone, and lots of courage to stick to following my/your/our heart! Thank you and blessings to everyone.

[@megmazuraniccourtney1591]

@frankmay your comment is so eloquent and true! Even though creativity through styling and fashion is my love, I sometimes feel that appearances can be superficial and so many of the friends and family I love dearly have absolutely zero interest. Thank you so much for relating your passion to generating joy, channelling new ideas, and enabling your true self. These aspects of creativity are very deep and spiritual, and it helps me remind myself that artistic expression in all mediums can be deep, meaningful, and a joyful expression that lifts others. I've transcribed a quote from you into my journal and wanted to let you know that it inspired me!

[@frankfrantisek]

@@megmazuraniccourtney1591 Oh Meg, that's so cool. I am happy for you. And yes, I completely agree. All souls are creative in a way and art, design, beauty have a deep spiritual value. It can be full of big egos as well, don't get me wrong, as in all expressions of life, but if the intention comes from the heart, it holds very positive and enriching values.

[@reginamannsperger9386]

This video is worth thousands of thumbs up.

[@nancyvance2772]

I adore you and your channel! Love "What Everyone is Wearing" and cannot get over your eye for fashion. You stop the best people one the street to talk to, and you're good at it b/c you genuinely care. I'm 73, and my beautiful 40-year-old daughter and I love to watch you together! My passion is wreath making, born out of Covid lockdown. I saw a wreath I wanted on etsy for nearly $400 and said ummm no, I can make that. And I did, only better! It's my side hustle! Fortunately, I can give them away if they don't sell! But you're so right about doing what you love. It's everything!

[@aartbykay6787]

Lord knows I needed to here this. Thank you Thank you. This was extremely helpful and inciteful. Love your content!

[@paulinejohnson4562]

Brilliant video and very informative. I follow a few youtubers that I enjoy watching and what you say about consistency and especially quality consistency is absolutely key. You have come so far and you seem to have achieved so much and also inspire people along the way, especially with your fashion and styling. Keep doing what you do, it’s fabulous. Thank you for sharing 😊

[@stephchesne]

Love this, thank you Karen, so inspiring ✨💪

[@sineadcawley7962]

Yes, a part 2 would be great please, Karen! 💚

[@marissat9953]

Thank you for this video! I am searching for a way out of my 9-5 job. I would really appreciate if you would do a part 2!

[@cca77]

Please do a part 2. Great content. I am an English teacher and I would like to start an online school.

[@mmusic5873]

Thank you Karen - this was well articulated and highly motivational. You are fabulous!

[@mareeespicio]

So encouraging, thank you for this. Love this video!! Part two please 💘

[@melinda3196]

Such a motivational video! I've started several businesses over the decades n now I'm into gardening. I have so many ideas about how I can turn my love for gardening into a business. Thanks for sharing ....

[@vstinson7234]

I love gardens and always looking to get other opinions and ideas.

[@frenchfan1278]

Karen you are so real, it’s just so inspiring to watch your channel. Very reality inspirational video.

[@genevieve7055]

I have been hoping you would do something like this and I would love to see more on this.

[@angiebjourney]

A part 2 would be amazing!!

[@elisabethm9655]

YES, PART 2! Thank you for this video…and thank you for doing what you ❤️ love!🤗

[@annielam1218]

Please do a part 2! this is helpful info! Thanks Karen!

[@celesteleecloud]

Wonderful video, Karen. You're such an inspiration.

[@daphethompson2424]

Great job Karen 👏! I loved ♥ the content in this video 📹. Soo many people are at a point in their lives where they want to make a change but they don't know how to get started. I really ❤ that you gave those points on what things we should do to get started 🤔. Because alot of people won't even tell you what they know or how they got started. Love 💘 that about you Karen. God will always bless those who give back or reach out to help 🙏 others.

[@stellachamakioti6343]

Great video, Karen, very useful! Please do a Part 2 with extra details on responding to brands etc. Thank you! :)

[@tanyabryant3525]

Thank you Karen for sharing this talk inspires me.

[@juliecatalini7235]

Thank you Karen for sharing so openly and honestly! Thanks for sharing the things that no one talks about. Thanks for sharing the reality, the practicalities and the business side of what you do. I always love hearing you speak and watching the joy and truth you exude 💕😘

[@camillebelcon8811]

Requesting a part 2 please. Thanks for this one

[@LilMissJBStyle]

Such an insightful video Karen! I definitely think working for yourself isn't for everyone. There are a lot of businesses out here that feel like they're after a quick buck rather than truly offering a great product or service and it becomes less about doing what they love than making money. That being said you do such a great job talking about different types of success.

[@jojoc60961]

Yes, great video , very informative. Please do a part 2

[@patienceediriobi5410]

Thanks Karen am in my 40s struggling with my KZbin channel, you always bring me back to life whenever I watch your videos. I have been watching your videos for more than 3 years now. Thanks ❤️❤️

[@nancyfielden270]

Yes part 2 please. This was very good. Thank you for posting it.

[@gabriellabaka]

Please, do a part 2! Thank you.

[@monicamag2002]

Thank you for this video, Karen and congratulations for your accomplishments. I have been following you for a few years and I really love your videos. This one in particular brought me, and I am sure many others, a lot of encouragement. You go, girl! Wishing you continuing success!

[@carollewis62]

This is such generous sharing Karen, Thank you... "I loved filling that void" is the take home message for me. Much love.

[@NaomiTGrant]

Wow! Thank you so much for this! I had been in a rut as a freelancer & content creator! I am having all those struggles that you mentioned & this video was soooo inspirational! It was exactly what I needed! 💖

[@ursulamoreyra8024]

I run a Floral Design Studio and sometimes feels soo lonely...but now im not!

[@PeaceLoveRainbows]

You don’t have to prove yourself to anyone beautiful. Thanks for being so real and helpful!

[@cheznardi]

Karen...you are hysterical....your mimicking of the 'haters' was impeccable. The reach of social media has given haters an opportunity to 'chat' BS. So glad that you ignore them. Water off of a duck's back....glad that you're thick skinned. I love that you provided another angle in this video re: explaining the highs and lows of becoming your own boss, starting your own business or dipping one's toes in entrepreneurial ventures. It gives us a well rounded perspective of what you do. Love your persistence and 'go get it' enthusiasm. We can all learn from this. Happy Tuesday!!

[@jbpabst]

Thanks Karen. These reminders help me not fall off.

[@srwarren103]

As cliche as this may sound, what’s meant for you is ordained just for you. I have two daughters both have entrepreneurial aspirations. They see you as an inspiration and use your path as their guide. Keep pressing forth 😇

[@thejadedhippie]

Yes!!! Part 2, please. I haaaaate my job. Any advice that can help me get away from it is so very welcomed. I love interior design and photography. I'd love to find a way to combine the two and have that be how I make my living. I just started a group on FB, f/that fotografie, and an IG account, f_that_fotografie, and I've been really surprised by the positive response already. It's encouraging but it has shown me that it's going to take quite a bit of effort to maintain the momentum. Thanks for all you do. Love your content. 😊

[@lucystewart9822]

Wow, first! Karen dropping knowledge!

[@NatalieScottEmpowers]

You are awesome Karen! So timely for me as well! Part 2 please 🇬🇧

[@shanachappelle]

Yes part 2 please!! Great info!!

[@marieadeyelure9177]

Thanks for sharing your story Karen , I really was meant to watch this. I left my job in digital advertising 3months ago to pursue a career in image consulting . My heart has always been in clothing, dressing up, dressing others up, even running a small retail business on the side at one point. Since I made that decision I’ve felt so free and so proud of myself to finally be pursuing what I love, but I’ve also felt terrified, overwhelmed, like I can’t possibly follow through. Regardless, I commit to just taking it one day at a time . Thanks so much for sharing this !

[@Leila2023_]

I've been freelancing for 6 years. I just can't be in a 9-5 anymore... but I am currently thinking of switching from teaching to sales - property sales, but I am not sure that I can actually do it! It's really interesting to watch this. Thanks. I find you very inspirational.

[@HeavyontheChai]

Thank you. I am requesting part 2, please.

[@realreviews4017]

Thanks for the inspiration. I have no idea what I want to do, but I know I want to do it for myself and listening to this is just what I needed. At 51 I became a full time student after working 30+ years. Who knows what comes next. You deserve all the blessings and more, your channel is a joy to watch.