Burnout. Self-doubt. Starting over.
(And what came next.)
“Stuck” is how I’d describe the past year.
Wanting change but barely moving.
Inspired by possibility yet overwhelmed about where to begin.
I wouldn’t trade being “multi-passionate” for anything.
But when your head’s not on straight, burnout wins and progress stalls.
I don’t have it all figured out. But I finally feel pointed in the right direction —
taking better steps, and working with momentum instead of against it.
“How did I get here?”
I’ve asked myself that more than once.
I was stuck — not challenged at work in ways I needed.
So I jumped into a new role and new company.
The mission was great. I liked the hustle.
But the culture? It didn’t fit. I knew it wouldn’t last.
Layer on some shaky confidence — and, if I’m honest, moments of low self-esteem.
The last decade has brought its hits:
• A divorce.
• Putting down my creative tools.
• Leaping into a new industry.
• Reevaluating my faith.
• Feeling like I didn’t know enough — about anything.
So yeah… it’s been hard.
I’m grateful for my wife, family, and friends.
They stood beside me, whether they knew it or not.
I’m thankful for my doctors.
And the new things I’m trying.
For the books and teachers lighting a better path forward.
And slower moments to ask: “What’s one thing I could do right now?”
For walking at least 10 minutes a day.
And remembering that “an object in motion stays in motion.”
Along with joining a new team with new opportunities — and a healthier culture.
The pieces are finally starting to click.
A few weeks ago, walking into a store, I found myself reflecting.
And the biggest confidence boost didn’t come from anyone else.
It came from me.
From my own internal voice, quietly saying:
“I loved who you were today.
And I love who you’re becoming.
You were helpful. And kind.
You moved things forward.
You worked with your team.
You stayed present.
You have experience. You have confidence.
And you care.”
And it landed:
I liked me.
Hell, I loved me.
I’ve been reminded that I’m good for people. And myself.
Here’s to a new day — to live, breathe, and enjoy.
P.S. I’m sharing this mostly for me. But maybe it’s for you too.
Keep going. The small steps add up.
Hey Bradley, as a career creative, I can so relate to this journey. In fact, if I had a dime for every time I read a version of this from a creative friend...well, let's just say I wouldn't have to work anymore. Our job is one of those that requires a LOT of vulnerability, which is the gasoline-soaked tinder for self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Glad you're finding your way. Took me a good part of two decades to be able to sufficiently tell my brain to fuck off. I'm 51 now and still have moments of debilitating doubt, but I can at least acknowledge and compartmentalize it, seeing it for what it is.
All the best, man.
Objects in motion, man. So glad to see your face here today. Keep smiling.