Finding Purpose

For years, I built my career around what felt safe and stable. Government contracting and project management offered financial opportunity and work I knew how to do well. I could lead, solve problems, and deliver results. At times, I felt I could do the work in my sleep.

But beneath that competence was a question I had not fully allowed myself to answer: Was I truly satisfied? I was proud of what I had accomplished, but somewhere along the way, I had fallen out of love with the work. I kept moving forward because I was good at it and because stability mattered. Meanwhile, the things that made me feel most alive-connecting people, hosting meaningful events, building community, and enriching lives-kept calling to me.

Then came my breast cancer diagnosis.

It was a tragedy I never expected and a turning point I could no longer ignore. It forced me to think about how I was spending my time, what I was postponing, and what I wanted my life to mean. The question became bigger than what I could do well. I began asking what I wanted to give my energy and heart to.

I am still evolving. I am learning to approach life more freely, make room for my passions, and trust that the things that move me deserve my attention. The leadership and business experience I have gained remain valuable. Now, I am finding ways to bring those skills into work that feels more personally meaningful: creating spaces where people feel connected, supported, and seen.

That desire is at the heart of BraveThePink.

My experience with breast cancer has deepened my commitment to community and strengthened my desire to offer encouragement through thoughtful products, shared experiences, and meaningful events. I want to build something that enriches lives and reminds people they do not have to navigate difficult seasons alone.

There is an old saying: "Do what you love, and you'll never work a day in your life." I understand the sentiment differently now. Pursuing your passion still takes work, discipline, and courage. But there is something powerful about giving your effort to a purpose you believe in. I wish it had not taken breast cancer for me to listen more closely to myself. But I am here now, and I am choosing to respond to that calling.

My encouragement to anyone standing at a similar crossroads is this:

pay attention to what moves you. You can be grateful for the career you have built and still give yourself permission to evolve. Take a step while you are scared. Allow yourself to be uncomfortable. You do not need every answer before you begin. Listen to your passion, and give yourself the chance to turn it into purpose.