my evolution
Reflecting on my initial journey into the professional world, the concept of 'improvisation' gains a new depth. As a young 10-year-old, I juggled a split shift around my school schedule, working both before and after my classes. My makeshift office was the kitchen island, which offered a picturesque view of a meticulously kept lawn, akin to an art display in a professional setting. The fruit trees and hydrangeas in the yard were my decorative knick-knacks, adding charm to my workspace. Armed with a somewhat unreliable blue ball-point pen, I navigated the challenges of filling out carbon-copy invoices, often discarding many due to typos—a frequent mishap for a child doubling as a 'bookkeeper.'
My first client, my Grandfather, was remarkably understanding. He received each invoice with gratitude and a heartwarming 'thank you, Doll, they are just fine.' The invaluable lessons I learned from him—his time, patience, and work ethic—were far more significant than any modern payment technology like direct deposit or online apps.
Fast forward over 30 years, and my work life has transformed considerably. My schedule is flexible, dictated by when I'm most productive. My office varies from virtual spaces like home or a café to client sites, and my essential tools now include a cellphone, a surface tablet, or a laptop with email and web-based software. My clients, though not family by blood, have become like an extended family as we collaborate towards shared objectives. The range of my work has grown well beyond issuing invoices for plumbing parts and services, yet the work ethic my grandfather instilled in me remains a steadfast, guiding principle.
The diverse relationships I've built with clients and colleagues, the challenges we've navigated together, and our collective achievements have been both enlightening and profoundly fulfilling.