Two years ago I read a little article about a flu outbreak in China. Even though the article didn’t give off any international worries. I couldn’t help but feel a little uncomfortable.

Since then like many, I’ve been somewhat lost. Teetering on the edge. Stripped of my livelihood, confidence shot and feeling betrayed.

I was made redundant, covid took the blame but it was more due to the insecurities of my employer. It lead to me losing all my creative works as I was away from the office on furlough and before I knew what was going on my access was revoked and my work Instagram account deleted.

My confidence was rocked, not only did I feel like I wasn’t treated very fairly, I had been denied access to assets that would have helped me find new employment. With a family to support and a mortgage to pay I was eager to get straight back to work. But with limited options in my field at the time and a desire to be more useful during the pandemic, I took a ‘temporary’ role helping the Royal Mail meet growing demands.

A year on and I have a newfound appreciation for just how hard being a Postperson can be. Still working in the role I am keener than ever to unleash my creative side and get back to my career. But unlike my previous position, it will need to be a role that doesn’t demand neglecting my family and personal time. One thing I have learnt retrospectively is that I was previously missing a balance and it is something I will now always maintain. It is quite obvious to see what is important in times like these, well for most…

This year I will be looking to take any creative opportunities that come my way while working outside of the industry. I hope this will help to help build a great portfolio and I will continue to look for a solid job that fits my work life balance.