As a solo public relations professional, your days are a whirlwind of activity. You juggle client strategy, media pitching, content creation, and the endless administrative tasks that come with running your own business. You are the engine and the caboose. But in the constant push to deliver results for others, when was the last time you truly paused to check in on yourself?

It’s a question that many in our industry are quietly asking. There's a growing sense that even with a full client roster and a steady income, something is missing. This feeling isn't a sign of failure; it’s a signal for reflection. In a recent episode of the That Solo Life podcast, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane explored this very topic, offering a much-needed conversation about re-aligning your career with what truly fulfills you.

The Growing Disconnect: Are You Just Busy or Truly Fulfilled?

In the episode, Karen notes a powerful theme from her recent conversations with fellow communicators. Many are in a phase where their work, while once satisfying, no longer feels as fulfilling. They aren't looking to leave the industry, but they feel a persistent sense that something is “off.” This isn't just burnout; it's a deeper call for re-evaluation.

For solo practitioners, it's easy to get so heads-down in the work that we forget to look up and assess our own journey. We spend our careers telling stories for brands and clients, yet we often neglect to write our own next chapter. This is a critical oversight. As Michelle points out, it's vital to “hit the pause button” and ask yourself: Where is my business headed? And more importantly, what about me? What do I really want right now?

This internal check-in is not a luxury; it's a necessity for long-term success and happiness. It’s about ensuring the business you’re building is one you still want to be a part of in one, five, or ten years.

Leaning Into Discomfort and the Power of Community

The thought of pausing to evaluate your life and career can be intimidating. What if you discover you’re unhappy? What if you don’t know what you want? The hosts suggest that the key is to lean into that discomfort. Acknowledging that something feels off is the first step toward positive change.

Karen shares an essential insight: challenging times often force us to gain a new perspective on our lives. Hardships, whether economic downturns or personal struggles, can clarify what we truly value. They can be the catalyst for realizing that the hustle culture—working 80-hour weeks and taking calls on vacation—isn't a badge of honor. It’s a fast track to an unfulfilling existence.

Moreover, you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Michelle shares her experience attending a women's conference, an event she previously would have skipped in favor of client work. The experience was transformative. Being surrounded by other ambitious women, sharing stories, and learning from one another provided a surge of energy and fresh perspective. Key takeaways included the dangers of people-pleasing (like over-servicing and underpricing) and the necessity of advocating for yourself. The chance conversations in the hallways were just as valuable as the formal sessions, proving that community is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.

From Reflection to Action: Building a Career with Intention

Understanding your feelings is the first step. Turning that understanding into a concrete plan is the next. The episode emphasizes that when you are clear on your personal foundation, you can build your business from a place of strength.

Here are a few actionable takeaways from the conversation:

1. Schedule Time for Yourself: You schedule client meetings and project deadlines, so why not schedule time for strategic thinking about your own life? Block out an hour a week on your calendar to simply think. Ask yourself questions like: What parts of my work do I truly enjoy? What drains my energy? If I could change one thing about my business, what would it be?
2. Embrace the “Season of Less”: Many professionals are facing an economically challenging year. Instead of viewing this as purely negative, consider it an opportunity. A lighter client load can create space to explore things that fulfill your soul—a new hobby, a personal project, or more time with loved ones. As one of Karen’s friends realized, she didn't want to go back to her pre-downturn 80-hour workweeks. She found more joy in a simpler, more balanced life.
3. Re-evaluate Your Definition of “Good Work”: As your career progresses, what you enjoy will naturally evolve. The type of PR work you loved five years ago might not be what excites you today. The industry itself is in flux. Take a hard look at the services you offer. What do you love doing? What aligns with future industry trends? This is the perfect moment to pivot toward work that not only pays the bills but also lights you up. As Michelle simply puts it, “I want to do good work with good people.” It’s a powerful mantra to guide your business decisions.

Your Career, Your Terms

The central message of the episode is one of empowerment. You are the architect of your solo career. You have the autonomy to design a professional life that aligns with your personal values, passions, and desired lifestyle. Ditching the unhealthy hustle culture and embracing a more intentional approach isn't just good for your well-being; it's good for your business. When you operate from a place of fulfillment and strength, you make better decisions, attract the right clients, and build a sustainable career that you love.

Ready to start your own journey of self-reflection?

Listen to the full conversation on Episode 320 of That Solo Life, “Checking In With Yourself: How to Find Fulfillment in Your Solo PR Career.” Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.