I went from earning $173,000 a year to making $6 one month. I don't regret quitting.

She quit a stable product-design job that paid about $173,000 to focus on a book and content career, giving herself one year to try self‑employment before deciding whether to return.
The early months have meant wildly inconsistent income (one month she made only $6), relying on savings and a supportive partner while learning to treat fluctuating pay as the new normal.
Her new routine—cycling, gym, and writing afternoons—has slowed her down and felt more fulfilling, though setting boundaries as her own boss remains a challenge.