A few months ago, I shared how side hustles can serve as stepping stones—unexpected opportunities that shift the trajectory of your professional path. Well, I’m living proof of that.

Two years into running my business, I picked up substitute teaching to supplement income during a slower season. What I thought would be a temporary fix turned into a discovery—I actually enjoyed it. More than that, I realized I was good at it. That side hustle awakened a new interest I hadn’t planned for.

Before this, I spent nearly twenty years as an executive assistant, working across industries and supporting high-level professionals. That chapter taught me precision, communication, and the art of managing chaos with grace. But as I was building my business, I also leaned into a longtime love—fashion. That passion led me to styling and booking models for photo shoots, networking with creatives in the DMV, and eventually becoming a board member for Fashion Group International – Washington, DC.

Each step—whether corporate, creative, or classroom—has shaped me in ways I never expected. But now, it seems there may be another calling. Teaching is not only fulfilling, but it’s helping me build a resume that could one day open doors to opportunities in classrooms around the world.

I recently earned my TEFL certificate and am now using my experience to pursue work as a substitute teacher here in California. It’s been a saving grace—helping me stay grounded as I refocus and redirect my professional journey.

Due to this newfound interest, I will be pausing services for Desk Maven until further notice. This isn’t quitting—it’s pivoting!

What I’ve learned is this: success doesn’t always follow the straight path. Sometimes it finds you in the in-between. The risks you take, the pivots you make, the roles you never imagined could lead to the life you’ve always wanted.

Stay open. Stay curious. Your next chapter might be unfolding right now—even if it doesn’t look like the one you originally wrote.