From Corporate Beat to Family Focus

Leaving my 9-5 corporate job felt like stepping into the sunlight. Don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t miserable—but I was done helping someone else fill their pockets while missing out on magical family moments. Instead of juggling endless to-do lists, I wanted to craft something that resonated with my family’s heartbeat. Women can tackle anything, but let's be real—we're not meant to do it all. Society's expectations can be a bit much, right? Now, I'm the captain of my own ship: no more begging for vacation days or asking for a break. It's all about embracing life's best moments and living it exactly the way I want.

Realizing the Need for Change

There I was, another late-night grind, squinting at my laptop and then that sinking feeling hit: I was missing bedtime stories and family dinners for a job I loved—but not as much as the moments I was missing. My kids were growing like weeds, and I was missing the growth spurt! That night, I made a promise to myself: reclaim my time, slow down, and rewrite the rules. I wasn’t about to miss out on the art projects, bike rides, and impromptu dance-offs.

Creating Something Meaningful

Quitting was scary—no doubt. Walking away from a steady paycheck felt like jumping off a cliff without a parachute. But staying in my comfort zone? That felt even riskier. So, I handed in my resignation, feeling both terrified and relieved. With each day, I felt lighter and more empowered, like I was finally in control of my own path. No more hamster wheel. No more missing out on life’s little joys. I wasn’t just leaving a job—I was stepping into a life that aligned with my values.

With that freedom, I knew I wanted to build something that mattered—not just a business for profit, but something that balanced work, family, and what I truly cared about (with a dash of humor to keep things real). That’s how ExtraLit Candles was born—clean, sustainable candles that bring a bit of calm and beauty to the everyday chaos. Each candle reflects my commitment to wellness, family, and living more mindfully. It’s not just about selling candles; it’s about creating something my kids can be proud of, and something that allows me to live the life I love.

Redefining Success on My Own Terms

Juggling family life and entrepreneurship is no small feat. It requires discipline, flexibility, and remembering why I started in the first place. Work hours? Defined. Family time? Sacred. Sure, the hustle never really stops, but it’s easier when the hustle has a purpose. Finding that rhythm between work and family hasn’t been perfect, but it’s been worth it. I’m present for my kids in a way I never could be before—nurturing both their dreams and mine.

Success, I’ve learned, isn’t about money or titles. It’s waking up excited about what I do while having the flexibility to show up for the people who matter most. It’s about finding a balance where professional fulfillment doesn’t mean sacrificing life’s precious moments. By defining success on my own terms, I’ve found a sense of purpose that was missing before—and I’m building a legacy that shows my kids that they can follow their passions without compromising what matters most.

Final Thoughts

This journey hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been incredibly rewarding. The freedom, the flexibility, and the fulfillment make every challenge worth it. At the end of the day, it’s about more than just candles or a paycheck—it’s about creating a life rich in memories. And the best part- you can do it too.