I’m rarely at a loss for words, as those who know me personally can attest, but I’ve been at a loss for how to describe my hopes for this site. When I was called upon to introduce myself at Pam’s workshop here in Dallas, I punted. I didn’t talk about this site much at all, when it’s what really needed to be discussed. I spoke about the things I had figured out. I spoke about the work I’m doing with Paper & Chocolate, not my hopes for Cultivated Living.
I remember vividly the first time after passing the Texas bar exam that someone asked me what I did for a living. It was monumental and nerve wracking, but it was also simple and clear. “I’m a lawyer.” There’s nothing simple and clear about this explanation. It’s my avocation, and I don’t have it figured all out. I did know, however, that if I waited until I had it all figured out, I’d never do it! So it’s a work in progress…
While I wasn’t quite prepared to talk about it then, the workshop was the push I needed to start talking about it. There’s plenty more that I learned from reading Escape from Cubicle Nation and attending the workshop, but this has made a huge difference. Thanks, Pam!
The Books 
I’m late in posting my book for last week, but it’s worth the wait! Plus, there’s two instead of just one.
Escape from Cubicle Nation: From Corporate Prisoner to Thriving Entrepreneur
Escape from Cubicle Nation is a roadmap to becoming a thriving entrepreneur, and The E Myth discusses the connection between who you are and how you run your business. I highly recommend both of these books.
About Pam
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I will be buying this book asap. Our conversation at lunch, this post and the Open Letter have officially inspired me. Thanks!
I’m so glad to hear that… It’s definitely a great read, and I expect that it will be a regularly referenced book on my shelf for a while!
Hi Angela,
I was one of your fellow workshop attendees, and have been enjoying reading your blog. I don’t know what your hopes for your site are but I come to this site because it strikes me as a kind of restful oasis “far from the madding crowd”. :D Somewhat like a spa day.
Did you decide to take up Pam’s offer on contributing to her list of client achievements for 2009? I hesitated briefly, then went ahead. Feels uncomfortable to put myself out there but have to go for it!
Happy Holidays to you, and all the best in the coming year!
Hi Cathy: It’s great to hear from you! And, I’m so glad to hear that you enjoy the site. A “restful oasis” is even better than I’d hoped. :) Thank you.
Your site looks great, and congratulations on stepping up to join Pam’s lists of client achievements! I guess I was so focused on the future that I didn’t stop to think about how far I’ve come since September… Thanks for the reminder.
By the way, I love this quote on your website by Melinda Gates. I also attended Ursuline and was so inspired by her when she spoke at career day during my senior year. I’m not sure people know about her many accomplishments before she married.
I have a couple of projects in the works for the new year, and I’m launching an online store in January for Paper & Chocolate, my mother’s gift and stationery store in Inwood Village. I definitely post more about it in the weeks to come.
Best wishes to you too for a very happy and successful 2010!
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