Why I quit my 6 figure job to be a freelancer in 2025

BLOG

2025 is a big year for me. Probably the biggest yet.

This is the year I decided to walk away from my six-figure job as a hospitality manager in the mining industry and go all in on my dream: growing my own business, on my own terms.

Taking the Leap

For years, I followed the “safe” path. I worked hard, climbed the ladder, and reached a point that many people would consider “success” while in my free time, taking on small projects to still fill my cup in my creative space. But deep down, I knew something was missing. The 14/7 in the mines, the corporate structure, the feeling that I was building someone else’s dream instead of my own, it wasn’t enough for me.

So, I made the scariest (and most exciting) decision of my life: I quit. No backup plan, no safety net. Just me, my skills, and the belief that I could make it happen.

Building Something Meaningful

I’ve always been passionate about design, branding, photography, and social media. I love helping (not-so-small) businesses create an online presence that truly represents them. And now, I get to do it full-time.

My goal?

To create stunning websites, capture high-quality product photography, and help amazing small businesses and brands tell their stories in a way that connects with their audience. And since I’m based in Airlie Beach, my focus is on bringing a fresh, coastal-inspired aesthetic to businesses across the East Coast.

The Challenges & The Excitement

Of course, this journey isn’t without challenges. There’s no steady paycheck, no corporate structure to lean on. Every success (and failure) is on me. But that’s exactly why I love it. The freedom to create, to experiment, to choose the clients I work with—it’s all worth it.
I’m pushing myself harder than ever, learning more every day, and embracing the uncertainty that comes with being my own boss.

Follow the Journey

If you’ve ever thought about taking the leap, I hope my journey inspires you. I’ll be sharing everything, what works, what doesn’t, and all the lessons I learn along the way. Follow me on my instagram where I will be posting the whole journey @byalbabernaus

So, here’s to 2025, the year of growth, risk, and making dreams happen. Let’s do this!

MY STORY

Hey, it’s Alba! A Digital Brand Designer from Spain based in Australia loving everything that has to do with Web Design as well as Social Media and Product Photography.

After finishing my Graphic Design degree in Barcelona in 2019, I packed my bags and traveled to Australia. In 2021, I solidified my expertise as a UX and Web Designer in Sydney. Now, I’m living the dream in the Whitsundays, where creativity meets paradise.