As someone who tried to do everything right, follow the rules, and did everything she was asked to do, at the age of 51 I Pamela Schmidlin am committing to making the road to INDEPENDENCE happen in 2024! Without any real help from an outside job or anything I was able to finance the next few months of several platforms to grow and make my blogging business. So in the next few months, it is not a matter of wanting but NEEDING to make a go at this Blogging thing! Sometimes what you want and what you need are the same thing as Nike Coach Chris Bennett says in his guided runs on the Nike Run Club App. So here is my breakdown or the beginning of my journey- some details are likely to change as the journey progresses and moves along at its pace!

My Journey to Independence

Achieving independence in health, and finances, and supporting my loved ones will be a challenging yet rewarding path. Today, I’m proud to share my plan in hopes of inspiring others who are on a similar quest for self-sufficiency and fulfillment.

Overcoming Health Challenges

My health journey began with a commitment to improve both my physical and mental well-being. Battling personal health issues is no easy feat, but regular exercise and a balanced diet will become my weapons of choice. It isn’t just about hitting the gym or following a strict meal plan; it will be about making sustainable lifestyle changes. Through perseverance and discipline, I hope to see significant improvements in my health, which will lay a strong foundation for other areas of my life.

Financial Independence through Blogging

One of the most significant milestones in my journey is achieving financial independence. After being discharged from the military—a challenge that felt like a monumental setback—I know I have to find a way to secure my future. Despite facing numerous rejections and undervalued jobs, I turned to my passion for writing and creating, launching an online blog business.

The beginning was tough. The market is competitive, and building a readership takes time. However, I am remaining steadfast, consistently creating valuable content and engaging with my audience. Slowly but surely, my blog will grow, attracting more visitors and generating a steady income. Today, my blog is not just a source of income; it will be a testament to my resilience and dedication.

Supporting My Family

Achieving financial stability will allow me to support my family, particularly my mother and my dogs. Providing for them will be a driving force behind my efforts. Knowing that I can ensure they have everything they need will bring me immense joy and fulfillment. It’s not just about financial support—it’s about the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are well taken care of.

Mastering Financial Management

A crucial aspect of maintaining my independence will be developing strong financial management skills. Budgeting, saving, and investing wisely will become second nature to me. These skills are not just about preserving wealth but creating a secure future for myself and my family. Financial literacy will empower me to make informed decisions that will sustain my independence and allow me to support those I love.

Achieving Work-Life Balance

Another important milestone will be finding a healthy work-life balance. In the hustle to achieve financial independence and support my family, it will be easy to get consumed by work. However, I’ve learned the importance of taking time to enjoy the fruits of my labor over the years. Having turned a 20-25 hour a week job in the past to 60-80 hours for months straight. Whether it’s spending quality time with my mother, playing with my dogs, or simply taking a moment to relax, maintaining this balance is essential for long-term happiness and well-being.

Advice for Aspiring Independents

If I could offer one piece of advice to those striving for independence, it would be to never give up.

As President Donald Trump often says, “Never give up!”

The road to independence is filled with obstacles and setbacks, but persistence and determination are key. No matter how insurmountable the challenges may seem, keep pushing forward. Believe in yourself, stay focused on your goals, and never lose sight of the reasons behind your drive.

My journey to independence has been marked by overcoming health challenges, achieving financial stability through my blog, supporting my family, mastering financial management, and finding a work-life balance. Each milestone has shaped me into the person I am today, and I hope my story inspires others to pursue their path to independence. If you’re ready to start your journey, remember to stay determined and never give up. Your dreams are within reach.

Until next time, NEVER GIVE UP!

During this journey this will be our/ my motto, and beyond,

Pam and her Pack (because we are in it together)