Where It All Began: The Dream of New York

I always dreamed of moving to New York. Believe it or not, it was all because of how the city was romanticized in movies and television. I thought I was going to become a famous supermodel, and that was always my dream.

I started modeling at 15 and continued while attending school in Chicago, where I studied finance—something I was genuinely interested in. I gained experience through internships, and after graduating, I continued modeling in Chicago before making the move to New York.

When I arrived in NYC, I was doing well in modeling, booking commercials and print work, but it still wasn’t enough to be financially stable. That’s when I realized that while pursuing my dreams, I also needed a steady income to fall back on. So, I took on dual roles—continuing to model while leveraging my finance background to step into corporate finance and accounting roles. I started with entry-level finance jobs and worked my way up to Director of Finance at a nonprofit. This shift was a crucial lesson: passion and stability don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Sometimes, having a strong foundation allows you to take bigger risks later on.

New York’s energy was intoxicating. There was always something to do, and I thrived on that excitement. But balancing a career that depended on auditions and bookings, while also maintaining a corporate job, was exhausting. It was a constant grind—always going, always doing, never stopping. And the moment I did stop, I felt like I should be doing more. 

Making Shift Happen: Taking Control of My Own Future

That all changed when I started my blog. It was the first time I truly took control of my career and my future. Writing gave me a new sense of direction, and I quickly realized how much I loved content creation, branding, and marketing. The blog started as Busy Wife, Busy Life: The Busy Woman’s Guide to Food, Fashion, and Finance, allowing me to combine all my interests. Over time, it evolved, and I learned how to leverage my skill set in new ways.

Through my blog, I worked with brands and developed a deep understanding of marketing, which ultimately allowed me to transition into digital marketing consulting. Then, COVID happened, followed by my divorce, and I had to rebrand myself and my business. Fortunately, the skills I had developed through blogging and working with brands made that transition possible.

During COVID, I moved to a new city, marking another shift in my journey. It was during this period that I fully embraced digital marketing consulting, helping businesses refine their branding and digital presence. Eventually, that transition led me to an even bigger change—becoming a digital nomad. What started as a necessity quickly became a lifestyle I loved. The ability to work remotely and travel opened up new opportunities I hadn’t previously considered.

It’s crazy to think about how different my life looks now compared to the dreams I had when I first moved to NYC. I never would have imagined this path for myself, but it’s been the most fulfilling journey.

Where I Am Today: A Life of Freedom and Balance

Now, I wake up happy. I don’t feel the stress of an office job or the pressure of trying to book the next big gig. While I am a full-time nomad, I was fortunate to land the role of Shift’s Chief Nomad Officer along with my work as digital marketing consultant. This lifestyle allows me the freedom to work from anywhere, travel, and build a life that truly aligns with my values.

Interestingly, much of my consultancy work now is in the financial services industry, bringing my journey full circle. I’ve found a way to merge my expertise in finance with my marketing skills, creating a niche that makes sense for me. It’s funny how life works—my background in business and finance, combined with my passion for content and branding, has led me to a career I truly love.

I look at some of my friends who I respect immensely who have stayed in their corporate jobs—and I realize that success looks different for everyone. For me, building something on my own makes me value my work so much more. It’s a direct representation of who I am.

My blog originally started as Busy Wife Busy Life, but my perspective on “being busy” has completely shifted. Being busy doesn’t mean being productive. Always doing something isn’t always healthy. That’s why I rebranded to Modern Woman Agenda—because the agenda of a modern woman isn’t just about work; it’s about balance. Success isn’t about working 12-hour days and burning out. It’s about designing a life that aligns with your goals and priorities.

Advice for Those Considering a Life Shift

If you’re thinking about making a major life change, here’s what I wish I knew sooner:

1. Imposter Syndrome is Real—But Push Through It – Self-doubt is inevitable when you start something new. But confidence is key. You have to believe in your success before others will.
2. Start Before You’re Ready – There’s never a perfect time to take the leap. Begin making small moves now, whether that’s saving money, building skills, or networking in your desired field.
3. Consistency is Everything – Success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes years of work sometimes behind the scenes before things take off something.
4. Learn to Prioritize – Having multiple projects is great, but spreading yourself too thin can slow your progress. Focus on what moves the needle the most.
5. Trust the Process – Every challenge teaches you something. Growth comes from discomfort, and every setback is a lesson in disguise.

The ultimate lesson I’ve learned is what makes the difference is persistence and not giving up. So if you’re standing at the edge of a big life shift, trust yourself. Take the first step. And remember: the best decisions are the ones that lead you closer to the life you truly want.

To learn how to live your nomadic dream, check out my Ebook: The Digital Nomad Blueprint and follow my journey on IG and TikTok @sheritajanielle.