I had the privilege of meeting Myrna Galan, one of Houston’s Premier Graphic Designers, at a networking meeting earlier this year. Next thing I know we are connected on Facebook, and then in March she posts the following:
Today is my THREE year anniversary. I quit my job and never looked back!!! I’m excited everyday to do what I LOVE!!
Aha Moment! Given what I do – which is coach women how to leave their steady full-time job in Corporate America and go out on their own, I thought I would invite Myrna to tell her story here, even though she is not my client. She graciously agreed. So here is Myrna in her own words:
My Life As An Independent Graphic Designer by Myrna Galan
They say time “flies when you’re having fun” and I can say it’s true. It’s been 3 years since I quit my last job in Corporate America.
I have been a graphic designer since 1993. I have had some fun jobs but they were still just a job.
I’ve always been creative and I can say it’s my passion. I started with drawing and sketching. When I got to high school, I had an art teacher that told me about “commercial art.” I didn’t know what that was at the time, that’s what graphic design was called back then.
So what does Myrna suggest for those who are thinking about beginning a career?
If you know what you want to do, learn as much as you can about your industry and invest in yourself. Take classes or read books. Don’t worry about the “competition,” just worry about being the best at what you do!
In my last job, I had been thinking of taking “the leap of faith” for a few months. It was something that I would think about every day. I knew I had a purpose and sometimes just getting a paycheck is not enough.
On the Monday of the week I quit my job, I remember getting an email with a quote by Mark Burnett. I keep it in a frame on the wall by my desk. It reads ‘I will guarantee you the day you step outside your comfort zone by making success your goal is the day you discover that adversity, risk, and daring will make life sweeter that you ever imagined.‘
I do have to say, I remember waking up the day after quitting, I gasped, I said “What have I done?!” I composed myself and got dressed, I set up my home office and emailed all my contacts. I got a ton of replies with “Congratulations,” which was reassuring to me!
It was exciting to start something new! I didn’t have any clients lined up or even a “plan” but I worked hard on building my client base. I have built up my business through business networking and I’m blessed to have so many referrals. It does take time and effort , and some events cost money, but now I make my own schedule and spend more time with my family. I will never forget missing seeing my little niece in her first Halloween costume. I had to work late, I only saw a picture of the day. By the time I arrived at my sister’s home, my little niece was a asleep. I’m happy to report, I got to spend several days with my niece in Florida, at Disney for Spring Break, and no one said it was time to get back!
Starting your own business is a learning experience, I would recommend starting with a business plan. That will help guide you to your next level. If you are wondering what kind of business to start, think about what you love to do. Set up a price list and be ready to present it to a potential client. Don’t be afraid to be confident about your prices. You are worth it!
Also, learn about bookkeeping and business taxes! Keep everything in order from the beginning!!
Of course I have challenges! I’m not saying there are no challenges or obstacle but the reward is greater that any of those things. Trust me! You will know, and have no doubts, when it is time to “take the leaf of Faith!”
About Myrna Galan
Myrna Galan is a native Texan. She has lived in Houston all of her life. She attended The Art Institute of Houston and earned an Associated Degree in Visual Communications. She is married to the love of her life, George, and has 2 wonderful step sons. She enjoys spending time with her family and volunteering at her church and the Junior Achievement program. She is CEO/Graphic Designer of Galan Graphix since 2009. For more information go to https://www.facebook.com/GalanGraphix
P.S. Note from Karen – Thank you Myrna, for agreeing to tell you story here. I have personal experience with her design work (and I know it is awesome!), because one of my clients used her recently to design their logo!
Myrna is a Houston jewel!
Thank you!
Such a great story, it encourages me to keep pushing towards pursuing my dream. of owning my own business.
Awesome!
Myrna, You are an inspiration. Your own story and advice for people starting a new career is great. Mark Burnett’s quote: ‘I will guarantee you the day you step outside your comfort zone by making success your goal is the day you discover that adversity, risk, and daring will make life sweeter that you ever imagined.’ is a good one for all of us to remember. I also know that one of the things you do beautifully is to network with other women and various groups throughout the city. We are honored to have you in C3 Women!
Thank you Donna!
I agree with the points not worry about the competition. Be you own competition. It is quite the ride to be on your own and not have the safety net of a steady paycheck but the reward of great to have the freedom of your own company, to decide who you work with and how you operate. It is greatest gift to give ourselves to be able to work as our own boss and to create our own destiny. Great job!