When launching my consulting firm in 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I was experiencing a lot of professional change. I resigned from my position as a Learning Program Manager. I say this was a tough decision because it meant leaving the public power industry, I grew up in and had 20 of experience.
The following week, I began my new position at the local hospital. I must say the people were terrific. I first hand witnessed their dedication to their medical community which spread outward as the pandemic continued to grow. A dedication of loyalty which resonated with me, but I was struggling internally as I recognized quickly this is not where I needed to be professionally speaking. I was faced with a very surreal decision.
I struggled with the fear of being unemployed for the first time. I struggled with an immense amount of guilt. (I came from the public utility industry, where I succeeded and loved “all hands on deck” mentality). I was full of angst, not knowing what I was going to do next, and shame for walking away so quickly. But hidden deep inside me was a glimmer of hope and pride.
I tapped into my network starting with those closest to me. Next, I picked up the phone and contacted those in my professional circle including a recruiting firm that I have worked with countless times before. At this point we are in the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order forcing many businesses to close their doors. The message was clear, nothing was going to happen in the next couple of months, sit tight until the economy starts to open back up.
If you know me, you know I wasn't going to sit tight. I had a desire to do something that brought meaning to others, and fueled my creativity. I wanted to make this time at home, truly mean something for my future.
First, I refined and defined what I would be focusing on. I had twenty years of professional experience as a generalist in many areas, but after a lot of insightful feedback, I focused on three key areas: Distance Learning, Program Management, and Human Resources Strategy.
Second, the name. That was easy for obvious reasons.
Third, I wanted to create an image. Did you know elephants have a positive symbolic meaning? Around the world, elephants are considered a symbol of good luck, power, success, wisdom, and experience. Elephants also represent loyalty, companionship, and unity. It became clear that having an elephant as my logo was how I defined success as a new business owner. Elephants also held a special meaning to me, as a young girl my great grandmother and I connected for our love of the majestic creatures.
Lastly, I went to the State of Oregon business registry online and launched Taryn M Consulting LLC. I look forward to hearing how you are launching yourself forward during this surreal time.
For more information about Taryn M Consulting LLC contact me at hello@tarynmconsulting.com or follow me at linkedin.com/in/taryn-johnson.
