I was the kid who loved writing. Getting a new sparkly journal from the Scholastic Book Fair? Pure joy. A new family desktop computer? A novel in the making. I imagined that one day I would become an author or a journalist.
Fast-forward to university: I got my Bachelor of Arts in English, loved volunteering for the school newspaper, and genuinely enjoyed the university learning experience, including writing all the countless essays.
But I had a secondary passion and dream at that time, and that was education. I minored in Child and Family Studies, and after graduation fast-tracked earning my diploma in Early Childhood Education.
So that was the path that I ended up following. I worked in the child care field for more than 15 years (when I wasn’t on maternity leaves or being a stay-at-home mom, especially during the COVID years).
Then, gradually along the way, it just didn’t feel right anymore.
Don’t get me wrong – there is so much about working in early childhood education that I value and appreciate. Building meaningful relationships with children in your care. Guiding kids through their early years. Getting to know and support families. Forming lasting friendships with colleagues.
But, as many people in caregiving professions know, these roles can often lead to burnout. Over time I realized that I wasn’t feeling the same passion for the field that I once had.
As I nudged towards middle age, I found myself thinking more and more about the road not taken. The path I often wished I had pursued instead.
So, in the fall of 2024 I decided it was time to finally prioritize what I wanted for myself. I began taking steps toward an entirely new career, enrolling in various continuing studies courses through Western University and George Brown College before beginning my Strategic Copywriting Certificate through the University of Toronto.
Going back to school at almost forty was a little intimidating, but I loved it (nerd alert). I’ve always loved learning.
More importantly, I was so happy to make writing a central part of my life again.
Now, a year and a half later, I’m working as a freelance copywriter.
I love being creative. It “fills my cup” connecting with small business owners and uncovering the heart of what makes their business special. While much of my work involves writing within strategic sales strategies and frameworks, it’s also very much about showcasing the value that a business can bring to people’s lives in a way that feels authentic and genuine. My years working with children, families and communities have given me the background to truly value the power of human connection.
Writing to help businesses shine, strengthening community connections, and telling meaningful stories through words, is both powerful and rewarding.
Although entrepreneurship certainly comes with its share of challenges and learning curves, I’m so proud of the journey I’ve been on, and I’m so excited to see what the future holds.
Here’s to following your dreams, no matter your age or stage of life!
Rebecca
