Taking the Greatest Leap of Faith
I am proud to finally announce that my dream of becoming a full time freelance web/blog designer and internet consultant is finally coming true. This has been a year in the making and those who have followed me over the past 12 months knew that this was coming.
This afternoon, I officially gave my notice at work, and will soon begin the journey of a self-employed entrepreneur. As of January 1, 2008 Brian Gardner Media, LLC will be my employer and the only paychecks I will be receiving are the ones I write myself.
It’s a bittersweet situation for me, because although I cannot wait to take on this challenge of self-employment, my current employer has been nothing short of the best - definitely treats his employees like gold.
I work for small company, and we are treated like royalty - I’m talking free Starbucks coffee, great benefits, can come and go as I please… really it’s a great job.
But my passion for design, for the internet and blogging was too strong to let go of it - I simply love to do what I have been doing on the side, and now look forward to having a much more open schedule to take on work, and participate in some projects that I have been putting off due to a lack of time.
I just want to thank all of the people who have used my themes, left comments, those who have become clients and those who overall have stuck by me the last 12 months. This will be an incredible journey and I am so happy to finally say that I will be working from home as a freelance designer and internet consultant!
Comments
79 Responses to “Taking the Greatest Leap of Faith”
Man, I’m so pumped for you ….. what a journey this has been so far and I’m grateful to have been “virtually” over your shoulder for a good portion of it. You’ve been a true blessing to my work and I know many others as well.
Here’s to a great future for you, my friend!
Cory, you have no idea how much your friendship has meant to me over the past year, and thanks so much for being a part of this ride. The best thing, as you know, is that 2007 was nearly a practice lap for what’s to come. Like I said to you this morning, I have a feel that there are big things on the horizon!
[…] of my best and most trusted friends online, Brian Gardner, just took the Greatest Leap of Faith and has gone entrepreneurial […]
Brian,
Congratulations and good luck. We don’t know each other, but I expect to soon be a customer.
I made a similar leap three years ago. Traded security for challenge and adventure. It’s been (mostly) great. Based on what I’ve seen of your work so far, your experience should be (entirely) great.
Jim
ps- only advice to give: if you haven’t already, tap into the the free information and books at nolo.com. Nolo’s been a big help to me.
Hey Jim, thanks so much for that - appreciate all that you said and am glad I’m not the only one nuts enough to leave a secure well paying dayjob to pursue a dream. I’ll take a look at Nolo - thanks for the recommendation!
Congratulations Brian. With your skills and passion, you’re sure to be successful.
Congratulations Brian! Excellent move. We’ve all watched with awe as you’ve released better and better themes. I’m quietly envious of your decision and look forward to both seeing your future productions and supporting them. All the very best. Richard.
About time! Now can we get to work? Just kidding. Great to hear the news and can’t wait to work on some more projects together.
Bryan
@ Sammy - thanks, now I’ll have more time to provide support for the themes! Thanks!
@ RIchard - similar to Ed, you’re someone that has been with me most of the way, and I have always appreciated your comments and insight! Future production will now begin…
@ Bryan - yes, now we’ve both taken the dive (course you’ve been there for some time) but more importantly you know what this means for us. More time - more opps!
Great news Brian! This is a big decision and I am sure that the Lord will bless you. I’ll be praying for you.
Congrats on taking this big step! I myself did the same about 2 years ago now and, like you will I’m sure, never regreted it once. Some setbacks sure, but without them there are no highs
Looking forward to how a full-time occupied Brian Gardner sites will bring us!
Wonderful news - very best of luck. The best thing is that you already have customers and satisfied ones at that!
Guy
Congratulations Brian! I wish you the best of luck and will support you however I can.
@ JR - I guess I’m joining a pretty large pool of those who’ve taken the plunge - thanks for the encouragement!
@ Guy - yes, it was always my intent to establish a client base before I left. Having a 3 year old, I needed to make sure this was a stable move.
@ Rhett - thanks, the best way to support me is to spread the word about my themes and services!
Glad to hear it, Brian. Lots of eyes are on you, so no pressure ;).
Seriously though, I’m glad you’re taking that step. I think you will be glad you did.
Great news Brian and best of luck to you!
In this design and consulting business can be moments of dead space. I heard a statement once that went like this “If you could pray for one thing, let it be for an idea.” So far yours have been great and I am sure there is more to come. I am so glad I found you!
Thanks for all your help and I wish you the very very best…
Brian,
It’s been said that things we truly want, those things we truly desire, are usually located on the other side of fear. You’ve made a plan, conquered your fear and stepped out on faith. Thank you for your wonderful work. You’ve been an inspiration to many of us. Best wishes to you in this new phase in your life.
Peace and Blessings,
Tracy
@ Ryan - Lots of eyes, huh? That’s a bit scary!
@ Deborah - Thanks for your continued support and loyal friendship It means a lot!
@ Tracy - Thanks to you as well - the past week God and I have had many conversations about this, and the best illustration is the story of Jesus reaching out his hand to Peter, and asking him to trust that he will be able to walk on the water. That’s where I’m at…
Congrats Brian, I went self-employed just about 2 years ago and like others have said it is the most rewarding thing I have ever done. Despite working more hours than I ever used to in my previous employment I spend more time with my kids than I ever did before.
So good luck and best wishes.
Dave Buchholz
@ Dave - Thanks, one of the reasons why I wanted to do this was to have more time with my son - now he gets to stay at home with my wife and I two more days during the week, which is going to be very precious time now!
Congrats Brian, you have talent, you should have no problem keeping your funnel full.
Hey Jim, thanks… that’s always the plan, right?
Bravo and good luck!
Congrats MAN!!! I know this has been in the works for a while and I know you will be overwhelmed with how much more success you will achieve with being able to put your full time into your efforts as look what you have done part time! I wish you and your family the best in your future as an online business owner! One of these days I will fly up to see ya or fly you down.
Congratulations !!! A lot of people would like to be able to make that call but are not quite there yet. Perhaps, with faith we make get to that place too.
All the Best,
Mac
@ Aaron, thanks a lot!
@ Dave - Man, it’s been a long road, and you’ve been with me every step of the way - friendships like the one we have are really few and far between, and I’ve always been thankful for you sending me that PM on Money Talk long ago!
@ Mac - Thanks, as you know all things take time and perseverance. I wanted to leave long ago, but knew it wasn’t the right time. Finally, it is!
Oh wow, what an exciting time. I have never regretted taking my own leap of faith, but not being the major breadwinner, the stakes were a lot less high.
You seem to be a man of discipline, confidence, integrity and of course, faith. Blessings on your new flight.
They that wait upon the Lord
Shall renew their strength
They shall mount up with wings like eagles!
About time! I know you needed to have all your ducks in a row. I’d say “good luck” but you won’t need luck to be successful.
You might need good luck to be home w/ the family 24/7
Keep that health insurance going.
And don’t forget to tell the wife that it’s true “You really need to travel to Hawii to meet with a client” once in a while.
Brian - Great news. Working without a net can be scary, but the rewards more than compensate. Like quitting anything, it’s always better when you have a support group. Luckily for you, over the past few months, you’ve built a vocal and loyal fanbase that seem to be along for the ride.
@ Heather - always nice to hear things like that - thanks! Even though I’m the breadwinner, my wife works at Metlife so most of our benefits come through her!
@ Lis - Guess this means I have excuses anymore when you want to meet up foru lunch during the week for theme design lessons!
@ Ed - Hoping that’s true, that my loyal fanbase keeps me going! I’ll definitely need it. Thanks as always for taking my back!
I know you’ve been looking forward to this for a long time. Considering your level of dedication to everything you put your mind to, I’m sure you’ll be a great success story as a freelancer. Congratulations and many blessings Brian!
Congratulations Brian… The very best in operating your own buisness. With your talent, there will be no limits. Go for it!
Good luck, I wish you all the best.
Congratulations Brian! Welcome to the world of work in pajamas all day :o)
Congratulations Brian! This is big step for you and i know you will do well. you’re ready!
With my business slowing down a bit, i am going to focus on getting my site done with you. All my best!
I am very pleased to hear these news from you Brian. I always following your works but I have never written any comments. I was a silent fan of you
Congratulations on your new business and also on your new way… You have been a successful web designer until these time, and as a freelancer you will make better works. Good luck!
Another round of thanks to you all for taking the time to wish me well! I really do appreciate it!
Hey Brian,
Very cool, Jennifer and I are both really happy for you.
There’s a powerful concept that we believe in - the idea of making room in your life for what you really want by getting rid of what you don’t want.
You’ve just made room for success to come to you on your terms, and to follow your dream. That’s powerful, and that decision makes a strong statement that I think will really help you succeed.
Have an awesome day!
Dan
Excellent, I am so happy for you! Great photo–is that really you? LOL!
Congratulations on your move, Brian. I’ve no doubts about your success!
Congratulations on your decision and good luck making the leap! I’m sure I speak for all your regular readers when I say that we’re excited to see what’s next from your themes portfolio.
I hope that this jump allows you to spend more time with your family and brings you fulfillment in your off-line life.
Good for you, Brian. Wishing you all the best.
Brian,
Excellent choice. Entreprenuership is all about execution; not planning. Your impressive premium templates have truly set a standard in that growing marketplace. Now that you can focus all of your obvious talent on this space and other projects I have no doubt that your success will explode. Thanks for being a down-to-earth, kind-spirited individual which I only know via your writing style and responsiveness.
Nice work! I wish you all success in ‘08. Hug the wife and get to work…ha…ha.
Alright, I’m already getting to work - trust me! Gosh, it’s humbling to read all of the kind words that you are all leaving! Thank you, thank you, thank you. I will do my best to offer the best themes, the best support, the best content I can!
Congratulations Brian! Keep up the great work and success is guaranteed for you.
Great header image btw
Congratulations! I only recently found you and I’m very impressed with your work. I wish you much success!
That is just great to hear Brian… I actually thought you were self-employed many moons ago but now that it is official like, congratulations.
My wife and I have been self employed now for almost 15 years and it has been a rocky road at times but well worth it. Keep your faith strong and always look ahead (as if it can’t sound any cheesier, but true none the less). Scott
All the genious things I would have put in this note have already been said, so I am just going to add Congratulations! You do deserve what you have coming. Enjoy the ride!!
@ Matej - Thanks, I figured it would be fun to celebrate the holidays by changing color schemes and thought adding a little holiday spirit would make it cool!
@ Susan - Another thanks, always nice to see new people leaving comments!
@ Scott - You’re not the first person who didn’t know I had a regular dayjob on top of design. Working at home 15 years with your wife - can’t believe you’ve stayed together!
Only playing with ya…
@ Jennifer - Thanks as well - say what you want, even if it means repeating!
Hi Brian!
Just wanted to extend my congratulations to you. The leap you have made is sure to have a very soft landing. Your design talents and customer service are simply first-class. I know I will continue to be a customer of yours, and I look forward to your future products!
Warm regards - Scott
// I have really found the comments on this page inspirational. You are surrounded by wonderful people!
Praise the Lord Brian! I am anxious to see what He has in store for you in this next season of our professional life. I hope to be counted as one of many happy future customers of Brian Gardner Media, LLC. Blessings!
@ Scott - (head spinning at your radically cool rendition of Revolution) Thanks, and your definitely welcome re: customer service - it’s very important to me. And yes, I’m completely humbled by the amount of comments and depth of which people have share.
@ Jason - Many happy customers is definitely something I continue to have - it will be a fun ride for me, and I’m very excited about the opportunities!
Brian:
More power to you. I am so glad to hear this. I am about to purchase your Magazine theme and am very excited about what you continue to put out. Just know that the larger world needs you! Good decision.
My kindest regards;
Vida
Congrats !
I’m certainly going to try and help out with your new venture buy buying theme packs and some design and tweaking time.
Good luck and may all your dreams come true … thru hard work and great marketing !
[…] to buy some of his Revolution themes in 2008. He is just this minute going through the process of becoming a freelance web designer type person - so if any of you need a website / Wordpress theme / help I am sure he wouldn’t mind you […]
Brian, Congrats and more power to you.
By the way, I’m digging the new color. Sweet!
@ Vida - thanks for letting me know - best of luck with the theme!
@ Mike - let’s go man, ready to do a little work for ya. And yes, I can handle the truth.
@ Robert - many thanks to you as well - I wanted to do something fun for the holidays, but I knew I’d get hung if I actually did a whole reboot. I figured you all would be more forgiving with a color change!
Brian: mini reboots like the holiday colors might be the answer to your frequent urges to change the entire design. (hey, it works for Google.
Awesome Brian!! You have to go for things in life or you will always wonder. What if?? I am sure you will be very successful. You have great follow up and take care of business.
Thanks Jeff - I can tell you that if we didn’t have any kids and now that I’m working online, I might be interested to pay you a visit and have you find a house for us to buy so we could live down there!
I have always loved your themes and been a lurker here in your blog, always checking out what’s new here including in your Daily blog
Congratulations! Good luck on your new journey and God bless!
Simply brilliant holiday variation of your current theme! Nice work.
Congratulations! Don’t forget to treat yourself well - don’t let your new boss be a slave driver
Congrats Brian! Great chatting with you the other day. I have sent your link to a few friends and you should be getting a couple theme orders here soon. I will shoot you an email in a couple weeks to chat about what we discussed a few days back. Again, congrats and keep on doing what your doing- your designs are great!
Woohoo!! Congrats Brian! How exciting! I hope this is everything you are wanting it to be. Love the Christmas theme, btw. Pretty tree! We got ours delivered fresh from the tree farm yesterday
Good luck Brian! Sounds like you have a full schedule ahead oaf you.
Brian, I see that John Chow is talking about the Revolution Tech theme on his blog. Nice…
Hi Brian -
just wanted to extend my congratulations to you… although haven’t ever commented here before, didn’t want to pass this opportunity… have always admired your themes and am a regular reader….. so heres wishing you the best in your exciting journey!
I understand where you are completely. Sometimes, you just cannot contain that creative spirit within a person. I can sense a deep passion within you and like the eagle that you use in the post, it’s time to fly higher.
One has to be careful with ‘open schedule’ as an entrepeneur. This is one area where most people who shifted to starting their own business fail. I’m sure you have the discipline from your last job.
Revolution has been an inspiration for me and I just wish you the best.
Wish you all the best and God bless with your new endeavor!
Wow! Lot’s of good words of encouragement. Good luck!! Mom
Congrats Brian…I am almost in the same boat! I am getting ready to quit my job and just focus on my photography and to start my own photography business…it is scary though! Good luck to you!
Cari
Brian, I just wanted to say congrats and how exciting and what a great opportunity for you. I have no doubt that you will do great and even exceed your own expectations and goals.
Congrats, Brian! Best of luck. I admire your work and I think you’ll do well!
Congrats Brain! We all hope to follow in your footsteps.
Brian,
Sorry for being so late to the party. Congratulations and best of luck with the new gig.
Thanks again for your earlier help.
God Bless,
Congratulations, Brian. Speaking as one who did the same thing in 2003, it’s one heck of a thrilling adventure.
[…] many of you know, I have now ventured out on my own, and developed Brian Gardner Media - in that process one of the things I knew I needed to do was […]
Heya Congratulations! That will be the new face of your life, different problems to overcome and a new life to enjoy ahead. Keep believing in Him and to your dreams and it will all come true!
Wishing that I was on your shoes also… (hehehe)