Mikayla’s Journey From Burnout to Landing a Remote Job and Reviving Her Passion Projects

Are you stuck in a cycle of unfulfilling jobs, constantly questioning if there’s something better out there for you? Mikayla’s journey is proof that when you invest in yourself and get the right support, real transformation is possible.

From Mortgage Work to Entrepreneurial Vision

When Mikayla joined the Purpose-Driven Career coaching program, she was working in the mortgage industry. It offered financial stability, but not fulfillment.

“I was stuck in this endless cycle of going back into the same job situation over and over again. I’d think it was going to be great, and then it turned into something I didn’t want to be part of.”

Beneath the surface, she had clear ambitions: to launch a dog collar business and relaunch her professional photography career—this time, focusing on pet photography. But she didn’t know how to align her day-to-day work with her long-term goals.

Making the Leap: Investing in Herself

Initially, Mikayla had some hesitation about joining the program, especially around the financial commitment.

“My biggest concern was how I could afford it. But after talking through it with my husband, we saw it as an investment in my future.”

That conversation turned out to be the first of many pivotal steps. With her support system behind her, she took the leap.

The Unexpected Power of Group Coaching

Mikayla credits the group coaching format with creating a safe, supportive space that made a lasting impact.

“Being on those group calls with like-minded individuals in similar situations—maybe not the same circumstances, but the same big picture—it really helped me feel less alone. We were all striving to feel happy professionally and personally.”

She didn’t just gain insight from others—she also saw how her own story supported fellow participants.

“I was surprised by how much I could relate to others and how my experiences helped them. That was really rewarding.”

Real Progress, Tangible Results

After just a few months, Mikayla began to see real change.

Lateral Career Shift

She made a strategic move within her current company that aligned better with her goals.

“I started making intentional choices about how this job could support the bigger picture of what I wanted.”

Learning to Advocate

She found her voice at work, navigating challenging dynamics and ultimately advocating for herself in a way she hadn’t before.

“I did my first ever counteroffer. I’d never done that, but it felt amazing—and it worked.”

Integrating Passion and Career

She began reshaping her photography business, zeroing in on pet photography to combine her love of animals with her creative side.

“I was able to harmonize my love for pets with my love for photography. That felt like a big win.”

Taking Action and Creating Change

As part of the program, Mikayla drafted a work-from-home proposal for her employer. When it wasn’t accepted, she took it as a sign that it was time to look elsewhere.

“Their response gave me clarity. It showed me that staying wasn’t in alignment with what I wanted.”

She launched into a focused job search, updated her resume, and started networking. Before long, she received an offer for a remote position.

“It happened fast. I took action, and things started to fall into place.”

Her current employer countered, but Mikayla stood her ground and declined—choosing the offer that better supported her lifestyle and goals.

“There were other factors that made the new job a better fit, like better benefits and the ability to work from home right away.”

Growth Beyond the Job Title

Mikayla’s growth went far beyond a new job title.

“I learned to advocate for myself. When I gave notice, they showed a lot of respect. That was a first for me—leaving a job on good terms and feeling proud of how I showed up.”

Even her friends and family noticed the shift.

“They told me I seemed lighter. I wasn’t burnt out or drained anymore. I had a clear goal, and I think that energy showed.”

What’s Next

Mikayla is starting her new remote job with a renewed sense of purpose and the flexibility to relaunch her creative business.

“I’m working on the logistics of relaunching the photography business and getting everything ready. Now, I actually have the focus and the time to do it right.”

Her Advice to Others Considering Coaching

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure whether coaching is worth the investment, Mikayla offers this perspective:

“It’s something you don’t know you need until you try. It really impacts how you think, how you make decisions, and how you show up for yourself. Just take the leap and prioritize yourself.”

Ready to Break the Cycle?

If Mikayla’s story resonates with you and you’re ready for real change, let’s talk. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Book a free 15-minute consultation to explore how coaching can help you align your work with your purpose—and finally move forward with clarity and confidence.

Watch Mikayla’s full interview: Breaking the Employment Cycle: Mikayla’s Story