Involuntary Exit, Intentional Growth: Robin Merle's Reflections on Embracing the Unexpected

Headshot of Robin Merle in a green sweater and black denim jacket.

“If I could give my younger self some advice, it would be don’t worry so much. You can worry and worry and then, suddenly, something happens that you never saw coming. The worrying didn’t help you one bit.”

Author, coach, and fundraising consultant Robin Merle, shared that advice during our photoshoot.

“The sudden event for me was an ‘involuntary exit’ from a role I loved. I’m a writer at heart so I dug into writing a book (called Involuntary Exit) to help other women turn this experience into an opportunity for real growth.

At the same time, I expanded my fundraising consulting. Whether it’s through coaching, writing, or fundraising, I’m driven to help people and organizations recognize opportunities and seize them to succeed. It’s why I do what I do.

As I began meeting new clients, using more digital platforms, and going on promotional book tours, I realized how old my headshot was. I wanted one to represent who I am now. I saw Alissa’s work through Chief after searching for photographers, and her work absolutely blew me away.

The experience was so different from a ‘traditional’ session. She was so engaged. She took the time to make sure I was comfortable and got photos unlike any I had seen before. My friends said, ‘This is you.’”

Thanks, Robin, for sharing your experience.

 

About Alissa

Alissa is a professional headshot photographer who creates photos that capture your essence. Alissa is based in New Jersey and provides her headshot services in NJ and NYC. Check out more of Alissa’s portfolio on the homepage, and read more photo stories on the blog.

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Choosing Joy: Sarah Coe's Transition from Corporate to Creative Pursuits

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Trusting Your Instincts: Melissa Wiley's Insights on Navigating Career Pivots