I never imagined I’d call myself an author. As a creative, my comfort zone has always been art and design—expressing myself visually, not through words. Yet here I am, sharing one of the most personal parts of my journey in an anthology alongside nine other inspiring women. My chapter, Transforming Pain into Power, delves into the life challenges that shaped me, not just as a person, but as an entrepreneur.
Looking back, I’m struck by how much I’ve grown—not only in my craft but also in turning hardship into opportunity. Today, I’m excited to give you a glimpse into my story and share the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Where It All Began
As a middle child, I always felt like I had to fight to be noticed. My older sister had special needs, and my younger brother naturally commanded attention, leaving me craving my own way to stand out. That’s when art became my outlet.
Creating wasn’t just a hobby; it was my lifeline. My dad’s artistic talent and my aunt’s career as a fashion designer in NYC made creativity feel like it was in my blood. I immersed myself in crafts and design, dreaming of a life where art was more than a passion—it was my purpose.
Eventually, that dream took me to the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, where I began a career in packaging design. For over a decade, I built a name for myself in the industry, blending strategy with creativity to craft brands that stood out.
Finding Strength in Adversity
Not every chapter of my life unfolded as seamlessly as my creative career. One of the most transformative experiences came from a relationship that initially felt like a dream but turned out to be anything but.
At first, it was glamorous: luxurious trips, VIP events, and gifts that made me feel cherished. But beneath the sparkle was an unhealthy, unsustainable reality. One particularly surreal moment stands out—retrieving money from a gutter to bail him out of jail. It felt like a scene from a movie, but it was my life.
That relationship forced me to confront hard truths about my people-pleasing tendencies and self-worth. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. Walking away from that chapter taught me resilience and gave me the strength I now bring to my business and my life.
Becoming an Author
If you’d told me a year ago that I’d co-author a book, I wouldn’t have believed you. Writing has never been my natural medium. But when the chance to contribute to this anthology came, I felt compelled to share my story.
The process was humbling—and collaborative. A publishing house helped shape my narrative through interviews, while my partner, Jeremy, became my unofficial editor. He patiently sifted through drafts, helping me polish my story (and cut out an impressive number of “ands” along the way).
The result? A chapter that captures my journey and reminds me that even though I’m not a writer, I have something valuable to say. Now, I’m proud to call myself a co-author.
A Full-Circle Moment
In February 2025, the anthology will be featured on a Times Square billboard. For someone who spent 17 years in NYC, this is a surreal, full-circle moment. It feels like a tribute to the city that shaped my career and so much of who I am.
This experience has also sparked new dreams. I’m already envisioning a solo book—one that dives even deeper into the lessons and stories that have shaped my life and business.
What I’ve Learned
If there’s one thing my journey has taught me, it’s that adversity doesn’t have to define us—it can refine us. Every challenge carries the potential to shape us into something stronger, more determined, and more purposeful.
For me, creativity has been both my refuge and my superpower. It’s helped me transform pain into something powerful: a career I love, a business I’m proud of, and now, a story I hope will inspire others.
If you’re facing challenges of your own, know this: your story isn’t over. The most difficult chapters often hold the seeds of our greatest growth.
Here’s to transforming pain into power—and embracing the possibilities that lie ahead.
You can read my full story, Transforming Pain into Power, in Limitless Women—an empowering guide filled with inspiring stories and actionable strategies to help you unlock your full potential and create the life of your dreams.
For more insights and to catch a glimpse of the results of my headshot, follow us at @onbranddesigns, @profitablebranddesigner, and @profitable.brand.couple for your daily dose of creativity and business insights.
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Here’s to your success, and remember — we’re in this together. 💼🎨✨
Until next time, keep designing and dreaming big!
~ Kim (and Jeremy)
