Case Studies

Valerie Khoo - from Senior Executive to Business Owner

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Name: Valerie Khoo

Age: 30s

Then: Valerie had been working fulltime in senior editorial roles in the magazine industry. She wanted to run her own editorial business so she could extend the scope of her work, broaden her experience and develop flexibility in her lifestyle. However, it was difficult to leave the security of a well-regarded job, particularly as it had taken a lot of hard work to get there.

Now: Valerie now runs her own editorial consultancy, Spindrift Media. She has a range of clients including corporations, government departments and a variety of publications in Australia and overseas. As her own boss, Valerie has achieved flexibility in her lifestyle, created more financial and career opportunities, and can pick the projects or clients she is genuinely passionate about.

Valerie says: “I initially did the Life by Design® public workshop as part of research for a story I was writing while in my fulltime job. I never imagined the workshop would be the catalyst that gave me the confidence to resign and start my own business.

“Life by Design’s approach is totally practical – it’s based on concrete, logical plans. So ultimately there actually wasn’t a great leap of faith, because the workshop helped me to look at what I wanted to achieve, figure out how to get there, and encouraged me to take small steps till I reached my goals.

“One of my biggest obstacles was the concern that I would not be able to cope financially. But after working out a cashflow, I realised I could manage it. And the great thing about running your own business is that your income has so much potential, whereas when you’re on a salary, there’s always a limit to how much you can earn. But the best thing is that I’m now doing work I really love and pursuing avenues I never had a chance to before - and that’s very fulfilling.”

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