Have you ever felt stifled by the conventional confines of a traditional job?
Many of us have had visions of a career that not only secures financial stability but also yearns for creative fulfilment and personal freedom.
And you know what? Achieving this is actually possible!
I’m thrilled to share an inspiring conversation with an extraordinary individual who has embraced just that and more. Meet Anna Mackenzie, a true luminary in the realm of career reinvention.
Anna embodies the essence of a portfolio career, seamlessly navigating a life rich in variety, creativity, and purpose. With a background as diverse as her current pursuits—ranging from aspiring spy to brand launcher, business podcast creator, and mentor to talented individuals—Anna has crafted a life on her own terms. Her journey is not just a narrative of professional triumphs, but a testament to living a life by design.
The Evolution of Work
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the concept of work is undergoing a profound transformation. No longer are we bound to the rigid structures of a nine-to-five grind. As Anna shares, more and more people are awakening to the possibilities of the portfolio career model. This approach allows individuals to explore multiple facets of their talents and passions, creating a dynamic work life balanced between financial need and creative ambition.
Anna’s Journey: From Corporate to Portfolio
Anna’s career trajectory is as inspiring as it is multifaceted. Initially a full-time employee and then a full-time business founder, Anna felt the pull for something different about eighteen months ago. She craved variation, creativity, and a lifestyle that aligned with her generalist expertise across business spectrums. What emerged was a self-fashioned portfolio of projects, clients, and creative ventures—a career that’s an aggregate of diverse passions.
Reflecting back, Anna speaks of her journey with eyes wide open. From her early corporate days at Mecca and Uniqlo to co-founding Lady Brains—and yes, thriving during those formidable COVID years—Anna has consistently reinvented herself. This evolution isn’t just about work; it reflects a commitment to a life blending autonomy, variety, and passion.
Finding Fulfilment and Security
A key theme Anna highlights is the balance of creative fulfilment with financial security. She explains, despite initial hesitations about the feasibility of her dreams, she managed to secure multiple retainer clients who supported her vision both creatively and financially. Her story is a powerful reminder that financial planning and strategic networking can pave the way to achieving a multifaceted career.
A New Way of Working
We’re observing a broader shift in the workplace today. Gen Z and millennials are challenging traditional work norms, prioritising autonomy and independence. Anna shares how she’s seen an increase in her own friends pivoting towards part-time work to cultivate personal passions, a growing trend in response to global challenges and a redefined perspective on work-life balance.
Taking the First Steps
For those curious about taking this leap, Anna offers valuable insights: calculate your essential ‘survive’ and ‘thrive’ numbers, establish strategic networking habits, and most importantly, trust in the possibility of a fulfilling work structure. Anna’s own journey was bolstered by a consistent writing habit, outreach to potential collaborators, and an unwavering belief in her capabilities.
Crafting Your Own Path
Anna continues to inspire through her work and her reflections on the journey. As someone who, like many, battles the temptation to overcommit, she has learned to manage boundaries and prioritise tasks that align with her deeper values and goals. Her path is marked by fluidity and adaptability—a testament to the endless possibilities when you embrace a portfolio career.
As we navigate an ever-changing world, Anna’s career journey serves as a powerful example for those seeking to redefine their professional and personal fulfilment. Whether you’re dreaming of a career shift, already on the path or exploring new ways of working, know this: a life by design really is possible for you. People like Anna, and indeed myself, are living proof that with courage and intention, you can design a career—and life—entirely on your own terms.
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Connect with Anna:
Website: https://www.annamackenzie.com.au/
Instagram: @annaclmack
Substack: https://annamackstack.substack.com/
Connect with Janine:
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
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