Happy Independence Day. July 4, 1776, the exact day we declared independence by the Continental Congress. The present thirteen colonies declared themselves a new nation. 240 years later. Where are we? #HistoricalFact

Now, back to the subject at hand. The word for today is “independence.” I know you’re probably thinking, “you so smart, R.J. .” No, seriously I want to talk about being independent. The moment I realized I had to be independent, and what that meant.

It took me awhile to be comfortable with saying, “I was laid off from my previous position.” I would then receive the following questions.

What are you going to do now? Looking for another job?

My answer would be, “I’m going to do ME.” Whatever that means right? I said it, and was crazy enough to believe it.

Doing me! Living an independent lifestyle where I made my own rules and path. I was forced into doing something I’d never done before. Was I ready?

It didn’t matter if I was ready. It was happening. I would still apply for jobs, and it was as if God was saying, “Do you want this lifestyle or not?” I want it. I want it! I’ve joked before about being a loner and rebel. A lifestyle change though, turning my world upside down. 

Our annual family picnic was yesterday, and I was sitting down with my great uncle. He asked what I was doing now, and I told him about being laid off. His response was, “if you work for yourself, you can’t be laid off. You can’t lay yourself off. Right?!”

He was absolutely right.

You know, sometimes we need those reminders along the way. I definitely need those little reminders along this entrepreneurial journey that says, “Keep going R.J.” I have to keep putting myself out there, and believing that God will continue to make a way for me!

I want it. I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-C-E

Xoxo,

R.J.