A Two-Year Milestone

And a glimpse of the weeks that changed everything

In a few days, it’s been exactly two years since I left my last “regular” job.

I was Head of Global Marketing at a software company, and unlike many others who write about leaving corporate, I loved my role and workplace. What I didn’t like was how the busy lifestyle ruined my creative flow — constantly draining my mind and energy. Whenever I rested, I needed to do just that. Sleep, run, read, or explore trails in the forest. Even when travelling, I thought about work all the time. I knew it was time for a major shift.

So, when the company was acquired by new owners in February 2024, I told my colleagues I was leaving. I had yet to decide what my next step would be, as I needed some time to think. For the first time in my life, I took a break. And went to my beloved Paris on a one-way ticket.

April 2nd, 2024:

And I’m off! What an incredible feeling. Today is the first day after the Easter holiday, and I got on the plane to Paris while everyone else threw themselves back into their hectic daily routines.

Now I’m enjoying a quiet evening in the apartment, after a little walk exploring the neighbourhood. I’m staying on Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, and there are charming shops and restaurants everywhere you look. I fell in love with both the Oberkampf and Canal Saint-Martin areas today — so much must have happened here over the past few years. People are sitting outside at all the restaurants, there’s food from all over the world, and exactly that kind of charm I love finding here. So excited to keep exploring tomorrow! (…)

I’m so proud of myself for listening to my gut and choosing to feel secure in my decisions, even when they’re unfamiliar and a little scary. That’s actually pretty amazing. To think that I would become this privileged. I’ll cherish every day, and every opportunity.

Now I’m going to read a bit before bed, with a big, big smile on my face. Can you believe it?

I hadn’t been writing a diary for many years, but I knew I would love to look back at these special days. Like I’m doing today. This is the first time I’ve shared any of it with other people, but if it can inspire anyone else to follow a dream it’s certainly worth it.

I’m not saying you should all quit your jobs, though, the past couple of years have been far from easy. This career path isn’t for everyone. As many of you already know, I currently work as a freelance copywriter and brand strategist, while building Parisian Sundays in my spare time alongside several other projects. I will share more about some of them another time. For now, I just wanted to give you a glimpse of one of the most important weeks and choices of my life (so far). Thank you so much for reading. And a special welcome to all my new subscribers — now there are more than 2,000 of you! I feel so blessed and thankful.

Before I say bye for now: If this moved you, becoming a paid subscriber is the kindest way to say so — and what fuels my next creative chapter.

All the best,

Marie