Once an extrovert, always an introvert.

From agency hustle to brand calm to independent creativity.

When I was younger, climbing the ranks in the advertising industry, I thrived as an extrovert.

My outgoing nature helped me excel, not just because of the skills I brought to the table but also because of my personality.

Being able to connect with people, build relationships, and engage in constant interaction was crucial to my rapid growth. I enjoyed being part of the office’s lively atmosphere, always surrounded by colleagues, brainstorming sessions, and lively discussions.

After more than a decade, I decided to transition from the fast-paced, highly interactive advertising agency culture to working brand-side for a few years.

However, as time went on, I began to notice something about myself. While I was good at playing the extrovert role, it often left me feeling drained.

The constant need to be “on” and engage with people started to take a toll on me. Deep down, I realized that I wasn’t as comfortable with constantly having people around as I had once thought.

In fact, I started to remember that, in my younger days, I had always been more of an introvert. I enjoyed my own company, finding solace and energy in solitude.

The pandemic brought a significant shift in my life, as it did for many. The sudden transition to a work-from-home reality forced me to reevaluate my lifestyle.

Surprisingly, I found myself embracing the change. The solitude of working from home allowed me to reconnect with my introverted side. I didn’t have to constantly meet people, attend meetings, or engage in small talk. It was a relief, a return to my true self.

This experience solidified my preference for a work style that aligned with my introverted nature, ultimately leading me to embrace the freelance, independent path I walk today.

The shift sure had its upsides. As an independent creative, I found that not being around people all the time was both a blessing and a curse.

On one hand, it allowed me to work in an environment where I felt comfortable and at peace. I could focus deeply on my projects without the distractions of office life and culture.

However, I also recognized that this new way of working came with limitations. Growth in any profession often comes from being surrounded by smarter, more experienced people.

Working alone meant missing out on the collaborative energy and learning opportunities that a team provides.

Accepting this trade-off has been a humbling experience for me. I realize that while my professional growth might be limited without a team, I’m comfortable with where I am today.

I’ve had the privilege of gaining a wealth of experience in my younger years, working with talented individuals and learning from them. Now, I’m at a point in my life where I prioritize my comfort and well-being over the constant push for professional advancement.

In this journey from extroversion to introversion, I’ve learned to appreciate both sides of myself. The outgoing, social persona that helped me build my career and the introspective, solitary nature that allows me to thrive in my current role.

It’s a balance that I continue to navigate, finding peace in the knowledge that I’ve experienced both worlds and have chosen the one that feels right for me now.

And that, to me, is the true essence of my journey.