I’ve reinvented myself more times than I can count.

When I finished school, I had no clue what career I wanted.

I just knew one thing: I wanted to earn my own money, be independent, and live life on my terms.

Still, everyone around me — parents, teachers — expected me to go to university. I had no idea what to study. Since I loved writing, I applied for journalism but didn’t pass the entrance exam. So I ended up studying something “close enough”… and hated it.

Then everything changed.

During a semester break, I took a summer job on an island — and met my now-husband.

That summer marked the beginning of the life I had always dreamed of: working independently, earning my own money, and building a life from scratch.

No fancy title. No degree. Just me — figuring things out, job by job, business by business.

I didn’t follow a traditional path.

I followed what felt right.

And with each new role, each idea, each step forward, I got better — not just at business, but at being myself.

Over time, I learned how to handle unexpected challenges.

I stopped panicking when things went wrong.

I stopped trying to force the “perfect plan.” And I realized that growth rarely looks clean or easy — but it’s always worth it.

That mindset has shaped everything I do — especially my online business today.

Which brings me to this Substack.

Unlike my German publication, which felt natural from day one, this English Substack has been a journey of figuring things out in public.

I’ve questioned my niche. I’ve pivoted more than once. I’ve doubted my voice.

Sound familiar?

Maybe you’re in that messy middle too — unsure if your current direction still fits.

If so, you’re not alone.

Rebranding isn’t failure. Reinvention isn’t shameful. It’s a sign you’re listening — and growing.

And that’s exactly what I explore in my latest post:

👉 When to Rebrand Your Substack (Again): Signs, Stories & Clarity​

If you’re stuck in self-doubt or feel disconnected from your work, this one’s for you.

🖊 Your 5-Minute Clarity Challenge

Before you rebrand anything — your Substack, your business, your life — try this:

Ask yourself:

What would I write about if I didn’t care what anyone thought?

No filter. No pressure. Just one honest answer.

Write it down — in your notes app, on a sticky note, or in your journal.

And if you feel brave enough, hit reply and share it with me.

I’ll go first:

If I didn’t care what anyone thought, I’d write about all the times I started over — not as failure, but as a fresh start. Because reinvention isn’t weakness. It’s power.

Now your turn. 💬

Cheers,

Katja

P.S. If you’re questioning your niche, your direction, or your voice — you’re not alone. Read this before you hit reset again.

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