They Walked Away from the Grind—and Found Joy: 8 True Stories of Reinvention After Leaving a Job That Drained Them

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4. A “Cute Hobby” Sparked a Bold New Path

Working as a personal assistant in a high-pressure law firm left her exhausted, invisible, and always one step behind someone else’s needs.

One day, she brought home a tiny vase she’d made in a weekend pottery class. Her mother-in-law glanced at it and said, “Cute hobby. But don’t think that replaces a real job.”

That night, she didn’t cry because of the comment—she cried because part of her feared it was true.

But instead of giving in to doubt, she signed up for an intensive pottery course.

What started as six weeks turned into six months. Then came her online shop. Then a small studio.

When she finally quit her job, her in-laws called it irresponsible. But six months later, the same mother-in-law called to ask if she could make a custom vase for her retirement party.

She smiled and replied, “Sure. But just so you know—family prices are double.”Continue reading…