Although I had almost everything I had worked so hard to attain, I still felt unfulfilled and not entirely happy; the shift caught me by surprise. I felt stuck in a comfort zone and wanted to shake things up.

My story starts with an ending—the ending of my seven wonderful years in San Francisco. I lucked out when I discovered my current job at a cheerful, locally-owned, high-end beauty retail store and salon. I went from being a first-year stylist to lead stylist and salon manager in under four years. I was also able to attend multiple education courses in New York and in San Francisco. After surpassing my five year goals in under four years time, I started thinking, “What else can I do?” Although I had almost everything I had worked so hard to attain, I still felt unfulfilled and not entirely happy; the shift caught me by surprise. I felt stuck in a comfort zone and wanted to shake things up.

So, I decided to move to LA.

I was leaving a full book of clients that every hairstylist dreams of having. I was giving up my adorable rent-controlled studio in the heart of San Francisco. Friends, family and clients thought I was more than a little crazy.

But I knew my move was more than just a geographic shift. As a hair stylist, I love all aspects of creativity. So I researched makeup schools and found one that fit my interests. Having this “reason” for moving calmed some of my naysayers down, but I still wrestled with plenty of “why would you do that?” conversations.

Now that I am here in Hollywood, I realize that the school was just my catalyst for moving. I’ve found a gem of a Salon in West Hollywood that offers on-location hair and makeup, an area I definitely want to explore. As an added bonus, I am traveling back to San Francisco to work with my former clients four days each month.

I no longer feel stuck, in fact, I'm looking forward to the adventure and excitement of being in a new city. It will be challenging, but I now know I am responsible for my own happiness. Here’s to new beginnings, and everything waiting just outside of your comfort zone. Go get it.