Unfolding in Real Time

Why I’m Changing Everything (Again)

I haven’t shared much about this (out loud or online), but it feels like the right time...

Maybe you’ve noticed—I’ve been posting, publishing, and sharing a bit more lately. (!)

What you’re witnessing is a real shift in my work: From freelance “designer-for-hire” to soul-led creative identity guide.

But this shift isn’t just about strategy, branding, or marketing.
It’s about my own sense of creative and financial freedom.
It’s about career sovereignty.
And honestly, it’s about survival.

Mostly, it’s about me following my creative truth—again.

For almost three decades, I’ve worked behind the scenes as a (mostly local) creative service provider—graphic designer, photographer, art director...

I’ve helped build countless brands and businesses.

I’ve designed logos, t-shirts, posters, websites, apps, packaging, brochures, ads, social campaigns, and sales funnels. I’ve written copy, captured moments, crafted voice, launched things, and lit things up with my ideas.

And I’ve honestly (mostly) loved it, all! 😊

But something’s been changing. Not all at once, and not in a single blaze of insight and clarity. It’s been more like a slow dissolving and a subtle shifting...

A Wild Unfolding!

My hustle at Bent Barn Studio simply didn’t scale, and the burnout got (REALLY) real. The income wasn't sustainable. Not consistently, and definitely not in a way that reflects nearly a decade of full-time effort.

But that’s still not the whole (or holy) story...

Here’s my real truth:

I’m a self-employed, transgender, creative professional—
Living, caregiving, and teaching in East Texas.

And I want to keep doing all of those things, for as long as I’m needed here.

But I’m also navigating a time where my identity feels hyper-visible and politicized. Where visibility can feel vital and risky (at the same time).
Where the simplest truths sometimes feel complicated to hold or share.

So I’ve been asking myself :

What kind of work will allow me and my family to finally thrive, not just survive? And can the creative services model I’ve relied on for SO LONG still sustain us?

This Wild Shift is my answer.

I recognize this is also an inevitable evolution in my self-employment journey on my creative career path.

I know, when life feels uncertain in one area, we often try to anchor it in another. And I KNOW I’m not alone in wanting to follow an inner urging towards something new and improved.

I believe creativity isn’t just something we DO as a hobby or for work, it’s how we can ultimately become better versions of ourselves...  

And, it’s time for me to walk my own creative walk.

So this new chapter is about creating peace in my creative work, and building better financial pathways that let abundance flow through multiple channels.

This is me, finally just—going for it. ⚡️

I’m creating and sharing what I need and want to create and share in and for the world...

Some of these ideas have been composting quietly in my creative garden for years.
Others are brand-new idea-seedlings, still tender and bright with potential.

I’m choosing a NEW way of working that’s:

• More flexible
• More heart-led
• More creatively liberating

So, I’m choosing to guide (not grind).
To create from wholeness (not depletion).
To be visible (on my own terms, in my own soft and sovereign way).

If you’re also navigating your own career change or personal pivot of ANY sort—career-wise, identity-wise, soul-wise...
Whether from burnout, boundary shifts, or the pull of something deeper…

Here are some of the creative mantras that have been carrying me on this path of creative transformation:

You’re not behind. You’re beautifully becoming.
You don’t need the perfect plan—just one small, true step.
You have permission.
Your dreams are valid.
You are worth it.

I’m excited to create something wild (and new).
Much love, more soon
Aaron

🌀 Explore my new, evolving work at AaronEmbrey.com
💌 Join the Unfolding (if this was forwarded to you)