# Embracing Change: How I Rebuilt My Life in My 30s
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Chapter 1: The Courage to Start Over
Making a drastic change in life, especially after years of climbing the corporate ladder, requires immense bravery.
If someone had suggested to me a decade ago that I could double my income by working remotely as a freelancer, I would have jumped at the chance. However, letting go of a stable career to forge a new path demands a unique mindset.
In your early 20s, financial rewards are minimal as you work tirelessly to establish yourself in a competitive environment. The grind is familiar and, at times, overwhelming. As you ascend the corporate ladder, however, the effort diminishes, and your income begins to rise. Eventually, you may find yourself settled in a comfortable but unfulfilling lifestyle.
Starting Over in Your 30s
Three years ago, at the age of 30, I made the bold decision to leave my six-figure consulting position and return to live with my parents to completely restart my life. Many viewed this choice as reckless, akin to professional suicide. Yet, it was a carefully considered decision aimed at achieving financial independence and avoiding the regret of not having tried.
Did I have a foolproof plan in place? Absolutely not! Nevertheless, I took the plunge, and I’m thankful I did. Here’s what you need to consider when contemplating a similar leap.
A Side Hustle Isn't a Prerequisite for Quitting
Side projects can be beneficial, but they may also become overwhelming if you’re unhappy in your day job. To truly engage in something productive, you need to be mentally centered and inspired. It’s perfectly fine if you can’t develop a side hustle while employed.
An alternative is to live within your means and save enough to support yourself for at least a year after leaving your job. That was my strategy—I moved back home to save on rent and built a financial cushion that would sustain me, even with rent expenses, while preparing for potential setbacks.
Cultivate Skills Before Taking the Leap
We often underestimate the challenges others face in their careers. For instance, I once thought about becoming a part-time bouncer at a casino for fun, only to discover the numerous certifications required in Australia, which quickly made me abandon that idea.
When I considered quitting my job to open a fitness training center, I had already completed a year-long personal trainer course and interned at a well-known gym. To gain experience, I started training friends for free and learned from successful coaches. The key takeaway is that while you may not earn income before quitting your job, gaining experience and acquiring necessary skills is crucial.
Be Prepared to Take a Step Back
When you hold a senior position with attractive perks, comfort can become a trap. I was living comfortably in Brisbane, earning a high salary and enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle. However, I chose to return to India and pursue a career in fitness.
Starting over requires humility and the acceptance of setbacks, especially when there’s no guarantee of success. Remember, an arrow must be drawn back before it can soar forward.
Explore Beyond Your Initial Plans
Prior to quitting, I meticulously crafted a business plan for my fitness center, complete with spreadsheets and cash flow analyses. Yet, after relocating to India, I quickly realized that a physical facility wasn’t feasible. Instead, I pivoted to online coaching, which had minimal overhead costs.
This transition opened doors to various opportunities, including content creation and writing about investments. Now, I have a diversified portfolio that allows me to enjoy my work while leveraging my different skills.
Lean on Your Support Network
Emotional support from loved ones is invaluable when starting anew. My family and close friends have been crucial in my journey toward financial independence.
Initially, they were hesitant about my career change. To help them understand my passion for fitness, I invited them to live with me in Brisbane, demonstrating my commitment through my actions. By the time I shared my decision with them, they were already on board.
If your loved ones struggle to understand your path, surround yourself with like-minded individuals who support your vision.
It’s essential to remember that success isn't solely defined by financial gain. True financial freedom lies in the ability to use your time as you wish. Those who grasp this concept will find greater fulfillment in life.
Chapter 2: The Journey Continues
In this journey, embracing change and pursuing passions can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths.