A few months ago I left my dream job-an Executive Director position at a fabulous, architecturally significant, house museum. I served the organization, for nearly eight years. My identity in the local community is closely tied to this work. Because of this, many people were surprised when I launched A Muse Consulting.
During the time I worked at the museum, my colleagues, our volunteers, and I took a lot of risks. We re-interpreted the historic house tour and found new partnerships. We created new events for the community and told new stories. We expanded the programs we offered. We preserved thousands of artifacts and found new revenue sources. We really made a splash in the community.
When I resigned it was done quietly. This was both for my privacy as well as the privacy of the family members still involved in the organization. We had grown to a point. My skills in marketing, programming, education, audience building, and economic development were no longer what the organization needed.
It happens. Tough decisions were made. When I left the organization was healthier than when I arrived. I am extremely proud of that.
When I first left, I planned to take at least a year off. Those who know me well, know that I typically am driven to work at one speed: “Pedal to the Metal!” After decades of that, I needed a break. I deserve one.
A few years ago I read about the “mini retirement” movement. People take a year or two off in their 40’s or 50’s. They use this time to travel or explore new careers. Some write the great American novel or join the “gig economy.” Others just enjoy life while young and relatively free of aches and pains. Sounds like a good deal!
I have been diligent in saving for my actual retirement. I also started squirreling money away in a separate account a few years ago just in case. This has given me worry-free time for various activities. I can travel, relax, garden, and paint. I have also been able to clean out my basement and find my next dream job.
I am creative and I missed working, so I started a business. A Muse Consulting allows me to share my talents for marketing, programming, and management.
I provide good quality work for museums, historic sites, tourist destinations, non-profits, small businesses, and communities. They cannot afford someone like me full time. I am fortunate to have made great contacts from all over the world. I gained these contacts while speaking at conferences and workshops in my last position. This work allows me to do one of my favorite things: travel to museums and historic sites!
A Muse also helps me remember what day it is. When you are “mini-retired,” every day feels like a Saturday!
Check out my new website and blog to see what else I am up to. You can follow my travels on Instagram, or on my blog The Backyard Tourist, which is now part of amusemarketing.net.