What comes next?- a simple career reset guide
2019 was a big year. I ran a half marathon and got back into the workforce.
For many years, my main focus was raising my children. I wanted to be present. But as they got older, my creative side couldn’t be quiet any longer. I needed an outlet, and Etsy seemed like a great fit.
I ran two Etsy shops for years: Paperhill and Paperhill Fabrics.
The story of how the fabric shop came to be is one of my favorites. I had been going to estate sales and flea markets for some time, and my first shop, Paperhill, used vintage goods that I would reinvent into new things—old wedding dresses became ring bearer pillows, vintage jewelry got a second life, and I made vintage wallpaper frames and note cards. I just loved creating something new from something old.
One day, I came across an ad for a collection of vintage fabrics. Since I sewed, I was instantly intrigued. My dad and I went to see it. The seller had inherited the collection from his mother, who had run a sewing business for over 30 years. Her basement was lined with bolts of vintage fabric—hundreds of them. It was incredible. I knew instantly I had to buy the whole collection… so I did.
For years, I sold that fabric by the yard. Everyone thought I was a little crazy, but it was a great gig. When we moved in 2020, I still had quite a bit left, and I donated it all to a charity that made curtains and pillows for refugee families. Full circle.
During those years, I also worked a few part-time jobs around the kids’ school schedules. But in 2019, I decided it was time to get back to a “real” job. (It's Funny how creative work is often overlooked, isn’t it?)
I dusted off my resume and applied for a sales/marketing admin role at a construction firm. It came down to me and another person, and I got the job. I stayed there for 2 ½ years, and after a few twists and turns, another opportunity landed in my lap. It paid more, so I took it. Then, unexpectedly, I got an even better offer and moved on again.
I spent the next two years at that job until I was laid off. That’s another story I’ll tell you someday.
At 55, I find myself starting over yet again. It took 12 weeks, a lot of tears, interviews, and determination, but I landed a new job. One that’s been a gift to my family and me, and I’ve been there ever since.
You never know where the road will take you. Sometimes, you have to find the courage to get out there. It’s hard. But it’s doable—and I’m proof.
Steps for Getting Back Out There (or Finding a Better Job)
If you’re feeling stuck, behind, or unsure where to begin—start small. You don’t need a 10-year plan. You just need to take the next step. Here are a few that helped me:
1. Refresh your resume.
Keep it clear, clean, and modern. Focus on results, not just responsibilities.
Pro Tip: Include any creative or freelance work—even if it wasn’t a traditional 9–5. It all counts.
2. Lean into your network.
Tell friends, former coworkers, and family that you're looking. A personal connection can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
3. Use the tools that work.
My go-to resources:
– LinkedIn – Great for making connections, finding recruiters, and applying directly.
– Indeed – Reliable, easy to navigate, and full of opportunities.
– Local leads – Check out Facebook groups, community job boards, or local small business listings.
4. Stay open.
The right role might not look like what you expected. Be open to new industries or creative pivots.
5. Give yourself credit.
Whether you’ve been home with your kids, freelancing, or running your own shop—what you’ve done matters. It all adds value. Be proud of it.
You’re not too late. You’re not behind. You’re just getting started.
And you never know what’s waiting just around the corner.
Much love,
Susan
p.s. I created a Resume Refresh Checklist just for you. Download it here to kickstart your career reset.