Meet Karli Williamson, a former event marketing manager and consultant turned career coach based in Portland, Oregon. Karli's journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and finding true alignment with her passions and values.
I connected with Karli in the CX Accelerator community shortly after I got laid off. She was giving away free career coaching calls, and I leaped at the chance to talk with someone who might give me some clarity. Listen to her episode here:
Karli's career started in the fast-paced world of event logistics and marketing. Initially, freelancing seemed like a temporary fix to escape feeling undervalued in her corporate roles. However, the allure of being sought after by numerous clients quickly led to burnout. Despite the flattering attention, her mental health was deteriorating. Karli realized she needed a change when she found herself on the brink of a serious crash.
"I was working constantly, managing multiple clients, and my mental health was declining," Karli shared. "Taking a leave of absence was the best decision I made. It allowed me to rediscover myself outside of work."
Finding what brings you joy
During her five-week break, Karli found solace in activities that brought her joy—yoga, painting, and simply being herself. It was a stark contrast to the stress and anxiety she felt in her previous role. This period of reflection made her realize that her identity had been deeply tied to her work. "I had to come to terms with the fact that work isn't everything," she said. "I needed to find a career path that aligned with my values and allowed me to prioritize my well-being."
Shifting to a career coach
Inspired by her own experience, Karli transitioned into career coaching. She wanted to help others navigate career transitions and find fulfillment outside traditional corporate roles. "I realized I enjoyed supporting and guiding people through their career journeys," Karli explained. "It wasn't just about finding a job; it was about finding purpose and joy."
Karli's approach to coaching emphasizes aligning personal values with career choices. Many
of her clients struggle with defining their identity beyond their job titles. "I often ask clients what they do outside of work. Surprisingly, many struggle to answer," she noted. "Rediscovering hobbies and personal values is crucial for making meaningful career shifts."
Some things to consider...
Prioritize self-discovery: Take time to explore activities that bring you joy and fulfillment outside of work.
Assess your values: Define what matters most to you personally and professionally. This clarity will guide your career decisions.
Start small: If you're considering a career shift, begin with small steps. Allocate dedicated time each week to explore new interests or skills.
Get support: Whether through coaching or mentorship, surround yourself with a supportive network that encourages your growth and well-being.
Connect with Karli Williamson
Use code FLIPPERPOD for 25% off a Career Clarity Course
Order the cutest handmade ceramics at Lumpy Pot Co
Thanks for reading this story on The Career Flipper Podcast!
Every week, I, Jenny Dempsey, chat with folks from all over the globe about their amazing career flips. I dive into stories from every industry imaginable—big flips, small flips, and everything in between, whether they were by choice or circumstance. Sharing these journeys makes me feel less alone in my own career flip from customer service manager to furniture flipper and podcast host, and I really hope it does the same for you.
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