Menu
Lifestyle

Why I Decided to Leave My Dream Job

lindsay silberman hearst

So, I have a confession to make: I feel like I’ve been living a double life. (Don’t worry, I’m not about to get all Dateline NBC on you.) Allow me to explain…

Every day for the past year and a half, I would wake up, shower, demand politely ask Matt to make me a double espresso, and then head into my office at a big fancy magazine. It’s a gig that—to quote the prolific film The Devil Wears Prada—“a million girls would kill for,” and I know it.

I’ve been hustling to land this exact job as a magazine editor since I was literally 10 years old.

But even though I love what I do (and I mean really, truly love) I’ve had this nagging feeling that my purpose, or at least the one I’ve come to recognize as my purpose, isn’t to work for a big magazine anymore—it’s to work for myself. And, more than anything else, to work for you guys.

For the record, I would never actually wear these hooker heels to work.

In a way, I feel like I’ve been married to my job while trying to carry on an illicit affair with 133,ooo people.

I work during the day, and then spend every other minute of my time focused on providing value to the community I’ve created on Instagram. Most nights, I’m in bed on my phone until 2 in the morning answering your beauty questions, planning your honeymoons, helping you pick out outfits for a big event, posting travel guides, trying new products to see if they’re worth recommending, etc. (Now you probably understand where #insomniabeauty came from.)

Being a trusted resource to you all is more fulfilling than you know—but juggling it with a full-time job has been REALLY. FUCKING. EXHAUSTING.

lindsay silberman

So…where am I going with this?

Well, I wanted to let you know that I’ve decided to end my marriage (to my job.) Which is to say, I’ll now be devoting myself to you guys 100%. My blog, which is brand new (please poke around!) will serve as a resource for all the things we chat about on Instagram—tips for planning your trip to Positano, beauty products I’m dying for you all to try, shopping advice, the rosés I’m currently drinking, and more.

In the coming months, I’ll also be working on YouTube videos, collaborations, and other exciting things that I can’t wait to share.

This was by far the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life but it’s a leap that I knew I would regret not taking. It’s scary and intimidating and all of the feelings…and I hope you guys will be here to support me as I navigate this very new, very exciting path.

A few things you should know:

MY STANCE ON SPONSORED POSTS & COLLABORATIONS.

Believe it or not, I’ve never done them. In fact, most people are shocked to hear that I’ve never made a single dollar off of my Instagram account. Obviously, that’ll be changing in the next few weeks, because let’s be real—my bills aren’t going to pay themselves.

BUT! You should know that I have never, and will never, recommend a product or hotel or even a damn cocktail that I don’t believe is worth spending the money on. I’ve worked for ten years to establish myself and my credibility as a trusted magazine editor, and no amount of money from a brand is worth giving that up. (Quite frankly, I’d rather be broke than recommend something shitty for a paycheck.)

So, if you see something #SPONSORED on my account, just know that I agreed to work with the brand because I thought they were cool and legit. (Oh, and make sure you like it or comment on it so I don’t feel like a total loser. K?)

Not #sponcon but I feel like it should be? @jenatkinhair HIRE ME

I WILL ALWAYS KEEP IT REAL.

Honestly, my biggest pet peeve is when bloggers or Instagrammers create the illusion that everything in their world is perfect. SPOILER ALERT: it’s not. And all it does is make other people feel bad about their own less-than-perfect lives, even though they shouldn’t. Surface-level shit is sooo one-dimensional and boring to me. If I post a really sick picture on Instagram but was actually sweating my balls off in order to get it, you better believe I’m going to tell you.

Sweating profusely in this photo.

I WANT US TO HAVE AN OPEN DIALOGUE.

I want you to tell me everything about your lives, what you’re thinking about buying, where you want to travel, where you just got back from, etc. We’re in this together! If you’ve DMed me before, you know that I ALWAYS answer—and my goal is to continue being that available to you.

If there’s anything you ever want to see from me, stories you’d like me to write, or tutorials you want me to film, just ask—your wish is my command. The entire reason I made this move is because of you guys, after all.

So let’s keep this thing going, shall we?

(Now excuse me while I go drink an entire bottle of rosé to calm my nerves.)

Xx
Lindsay

82 Comments

  • Kelly
    September 30, 2018 at 6:02 pm

    Love everything about this post! So excited to see what’s next! Cheers to you Lindsay!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 7:25 pm

      Thank you so much! It was hard to articulate everything I was feeling but I tried. Appreciate the support 🙂

      Reply
  • Emily
    September 30, 2018 at 6:04 pm

    Congrats! I’ve always loved following you and I look forward to watching this next chapter unfold!

    Reply
  • Kathy
    September 30, 2018 at 6:29 pm

    Congratulations!!!! You are one of my favorite people to follow and I will continue to support you girl. Can’t wait to see your growth, journey and successes! Cheers to a new chapter.

    Xx Kathy
    @islandfeversisters

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 7:26 pm

      Thank you for always supporting! You and your sis are the BEST. Lots of exciting things to come!! xox

      Reply
  • Maria
    September 30, 2018 at 7:04 pm

    It seems to be an obvious move forward for you! I have no doubt you will enjoy and enrich so many with your honest reviews and amazing recommendations. I can’t tell you how many purchases I made (and love) because of your posts. Good luck and have a blast on your new path!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 7:27 pm

      AH that means more to me than you know. Always trying to keep it real! Super excited for everything that’s to come! Sorry in advance to your wallet.

      Reply
  • Siddhi
    September 30, 2018 at 7:12 pm

    I am so excited for you and wish you best of everything on this new adventure you’ve taken on. You have been so real all along & you are an inspiration to many young women like me to keep it real.

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 7:28 pm

      I really appreciate the feedback! It’s surprising to me how many people I follow that I don’t feel like it truly *KNOW* – I always want to be an open book. Thank you!

      Reply
  • Enis
    September 30, 2018 at 7:13 pm

    It was about time! Cheers to your new adventure 🥂

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 7:29 pm

      Hahah my thoughts exactly 🙂 thank you so much for the support

      Reply
  • Regine Karpel
    September 30, 2018 at 7:13 pm
  • Sandy Sirias
    September 30, 2018 at 7:23 pm

    I wish you the best. I admire you for the courage you have to change course, not knowing what’s ahead. Be the best you can be and always keep it real!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 7:29 pm

      It’s scary for sure! But I guess it’s high risk, high reward as they say… 🙂 at least I hope lol

      Reply
  • Katherine
    September 30, 2018 at 7:42 pm

    OH MY GOD we have only spoken via Instagram dm’s a few times… but I feel like I’m proud of my best friend right now…. this is going to be the best and I am pumped about it!!! If you ever need an assistant… let me know.

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 8:02 pm

      oh HIII bestie! thank you so so so much x1000. Appreciate the support more than you know. Let’s both pray I get busy enough to need an assistant lol LMK if there’s anything you think I should write about on here!

      Reply
  • Melissa D'Mello
    September 30, 2018 at 7:51 pm

    Congratualations on the move Lindsay!! Love that you took the leap!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 8:03 pm

      thank you so much! big leap – but I’m ready for it!!

      Reply
  • Pamela Garza
    September 30, 2018 at 8:07 pm

    Your message resonates so much on who I am and what I want to! Congratulations on finally making the move and jump to the adventure!
    I can’t wait to see your page and follow you while you keep growing!

    Wish you all the best!!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 11:55 pm

      thank you so much! I’m so glad you were able to relate. Lots of exciting things to come…!

      Reply
  • Geisa Alzaga
    September 30, 2018 at 8:10 pm

    Hi Lindsay congratulations I really love all your instagram posts I have been following you for some months and you always answer my questions and comments wish you the best in this new adventures.I will continue to support you and I cant wait to know about your safari adventure xoxo,
    Geisa

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 9:11 pm

      Thanks Geisa! I’m so excited to post all about my safari!

      Reply
  • Alison
    September 30, 2018 at 8:28 pm

    Been following you for about a year – love your content and your courage to take a leap of faith into the unknown for your career. Amazing! You will kill it.

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 9:10 pm

      thank you so much for the support – can’t say it enough times!!! <3

      Reply
  • Marion
    September 30, 2018 at 8:29 pm

    Honestly the one blog I will really look forward to reading!! Looking forward to what you have in store. All the best to you!

    Reply
  • Rebecca
    September 30, 2018 at 8:37 pm

    Congratulations! You will never regret working for yourself. It’s super scary but your life will be YOURS!!! I had a feeling this day would come bc I did the same thing myself-worked my ass off in a job I loved but loved my “hobby” more. When I realized I could do my hobby FT, well, why not?? You only live once.
    And for those of you who are new… she’s right! She DOES answer all your messages!! Insane!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 9:09 pm

      Ahh yea, that’s what I’m most excited for. Thanks for the words of encouragement – it means a lot!

      Reply
  • Nancy
    September 30, 2018 at 8:54 pm

    Congrats on your big move! Good thoughts that your audiences grows and this is all you want it to be. I am taking a river cruise from Amsterdam next spring ending in Switzerland( so excited!). We are spending 4 days in Lake Como after the river cruise- any ideas on places to visit, restaurants? Possible blog post on this?? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 9:09 pm

      Thank you so much Nancy! The cruise sounds amazing. We did Lake Como for the first time last summer. It was unbelievable. Will add this post idea to my list, but for sure go to Gato Nero (the restaurant George Clooney hangs out at!) and spend the day in Bellagio

      Reply
      • Nancy
        October 1, 2018 at 3:22 am

        Thanks! I am adding this to my travel notes which is getting longer every day I research-lol!

        Reply
  • Keriann
    September 30, 2018 at 9:16 pm

    If there’s one person on Earth who should be a full-time influencer, it’s you. Whenever people don’t get it or talk crap about that world, I tell them about you and how you’re the realest and live for giving honest legit advice, whether it’s beauty products or travel reccs and you’re basically my Oprah for owning and living my best luxe life. Sorry this sounds like a testimonial, LOL, I’m just beyond proud and excited for what’s next! Congrats and I hope you get a tiny bit more sleep now!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      September 30, 2018 at 11:59 pm

      UMMM DID YOU JUST BECOME MY PUBLICIST? you are amazing. thank you for spreading the @lindsaysilb gospel. hahaha. to be honest it felt so cliche to say i was leaving to become an “instagrammer” or an “influencer” or a “blogger” because I’m genuinely trying to do something different–bring a sense of REALITY to a very fake world. knowhatimean?! THANK YOU ALWAYS FOR THE SUPPORT!

      Reply
  • Heather & Mike
    September 30, 2018 at 9:21 pm

    Congrats Lindsay. You are going to be so successful we just know it!

    Reply
  • Elisa
    September 30, 2018 at 9:40 pm

    Congratulations Lindsay! I know you will be a success I thus next part of your amazing journey so far. You have such a great rapport with your followers and your honesty is refreshing! Glad you will be keeping your editorial integrity and wishing you all good things!!!!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 1, 2018 at 12:00 am

      thank you for following along! i feel like your integrity and honesty are the only things you have to differentiate yourself these days…since everyone is beautiful and takes beautiful pics 🙂 I appreciate the feedback!

      Reply
  • Kristina
    September 30, 2018 at 9:40 pm

    I don’t know how I ended up following you but I’m so glad I did. I love your content, realness, and #insomniabeauty ! Can’t wait to see you really take off, congratulations!!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 1, 2018 at 12:01 am

      yessss i love me some #insomniabeauty ! I’m so glad we found eachother!! xox

      Reply
  • Sydney Carver
    September 30, 2018 at 10:11 pm

    SO excited about this, Lindsay! I have so loved following you on instagram! Welcome to the blogging world!!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 1, 2018 at 12:01 am

      likewise! i’m a fangirl of yours, appreciate the kind words!! xox

      Reply
  • Lydia
    September 30, 2018 at 11:09 pm

    You always reply to your DMs. I can attest to that myself. This is a scary step, but good for you! You are one of my favorite accounts on Instagram and I can’t wait to see what you come up with (now that you have more time)! Drink that bottle of rose girl, you earned it!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 1, 2018 at 12:02 am

      HAHA OH HAVE I EVER! I might just have two. I have soooo many ideas I’m really excited about. Just you wait! thanks so much for all of the support!

      Reply
  • Molly
    October 1, 2018 at 1:26 am

    Congrats! This is a boss ass move and you won’t regret it. I just celebrated my 5th year of success as a business owner and that original leap of faith was so scary but every bit worth it! Now I’m working on my second business trying out blogging and I will be looking to you for guidance! 😉 Best of luck lady!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 4, 2018 at 9:39 pm

      Ah thanks so much! Hearing stories like that makes me feel so much better about my decision!

      Reply
  • Meghan
    October 1, 2018 at 2:05 am

    That’s super exciting! Were your bosses shocked or did they kind of push you out so you could do this stuff full time? Can’t wait to follow along ❤️

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 4, 2018 at 9:40 pm

      They were UNBELIEVABLY cool. Sad that I wanted to leave, but totally understood why and were super supportive. It made leaving a little harder since they were so nice about it lol

      Reply
  • Kirstin (LetsGoSomewhereElse.co.uk)
    October 1, 2018 at 6:40 pm

    Congratulations! This is a big step in what many can only dream of! I’m new to your blog but so glad I joined you at this big milestone. Cheers to the future!

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 4, 2018 at 9:40 pm

      Thank you so much for stopping by and following along! It’s going to be a journey for sure!

      Reply
  • Jenny H
    October 1, 2018 at 8:10 pm

    You are awesome! I’m especially excited to hear travel tips from you, especially budget, and all of the other fun and funny stuff that you’ve been writing about on Instagram. I feel like at 52, I’m an older follower but you are a very interesting person Lindsay! ❤️

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 4, 2018 at 9:42 pm

      You’re only as young as you feel right?! I actually think a lot of my followers are “mature” 🙂 and i love that <3

      Reply
  • Angela
    October 1, 2018 at 10:07 pm

    Heyyyyoooo! I had a feeling you may be headed in this direction. Excited for you, excited to watch you kill it annnnd good for you for going for it!

    Reply
  • Rob
    October 2, 2018 at 4:07 pm

    Very exciting news babe! We at lebonlifestyle will certainly be staying tuned!

    Reply
  • Julia Armet
    October 3, 2018 at 1:27 pm

    Love the word purpose. You are being who you are destined to be and doing what you are destined to do 🙌🏻

    Reply
  • Shawna Shapero
    October 4, 2018 at 12:04 am

    Congratulations, Lindsay, love your fearlessness and passion. CHEERS!!!

    Reply
  • Jason Feinberg
    October 4, 2018 at 12:52 am

    Congratulations! Wishing you all the success in the world!!!

    Reply
  • Cloe
    October 4, 2018 at 1:24 am

    Lindsay,

    This is AWESOME. You’re an incredible writer! Good luck with this new path.

    Xo,
    Cloe (CGL)

    Reply
  • DESPINA
    October 4, 2018 at 7:23 am

    Congratulations on the move Lindsay!!! Best wishes for every success!

    Reply
  • Marissa
    October 4, 2018 at 10:54 am

    Congrats Lindsay! I have been following your amazing travels and writing for years, and am excited for whats to come for you 🙂 (And us followers!)
    xo

    Reply
  • Dani
    October 8, 2018 at 5:59 am

    Late to the party but wanted to say HOW MUCH your courage and determination inspire me! And you are hilarious to boot. Frankly, I wish I had your confidence and chutzpah 🙂 If you ever wonder what your words/posts do exactly…know this gal in Dallas, Texas is listening and cheering you on✨🙌🥂🍾

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 9, 2018 at 6:48 am

      Dani!! Wow! Thank you so much. That means more to me than you know <3 thanks for reading!

      Reply
  • Tori
    October 17, 2018 at 8:53 pm

    Ooh! Congrats on this next chapter. How exciting. It’s also so cool to see how dreams can be achieved and then change! We live a long time nowadays – can’t wait to see how this dream goes for you right now. Whoo hoo!
    Also how the heck did you do all this with a huge full time job? I bow down to you. It’s so impressive! ❤️

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      October 20, 2018 at 10:04 pm

      Thank you so much! And you’re totally right. I’ll be honest – it wasn’t easy juggling my own brand with a full-time job! A lot of VERY late nights 🙂

      Reply
  • Jaime
    October 20, 2018 at 9:54 pm

    You’re so cute! Love this and can’t wait to see where you go from here!

    Reply
  • Zissis Liolios
    November 6, 2018 at 12:10 am

    Lindsay, thank you so much for the courage you demonstrated and the authenticity of this article as it gave me encouragement for what I just did. I just quit my 6 figure corporate job. Like you, I did not feel I was being authentic and living my true purpose everyday and everyday that I was compromising on my lie, a little bit of me would die within everyday. No more. Don’t worry, I have a dream and a plan. I am hoping my passion and my honest intentions, along with the amazing people I surround myself will carry me there. I intent to make a positive impact on this earth. Stay tuned.

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      November 8, 2018 at 11:26 pm

      I am so happy to hear that. Good for you!! Life is too short to be compromising on something that we spend so much time on. I can tell you’re passionate just based on your comment, so I know you’ll be just fine 🙂

      Reply
  • Reija
    November 8, 2018 at 7:58 pm

    Firsts are always fun, Thanks for taking my Newsletter Virginity. I followed an influencer, and I liked it. 😉

    Reply
  • Jaimi
    January 12, 2020 at 6:52 am

    Thanks for re-sharing! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and tips!

    Reply
  • Dawn
    June 23, 2022 at 2:45 am

    ok…I love this post so much! Thank you for being honest and encouraging others to do the same. I have been not-so-gently nudged for years to start a blog but have been skeptical due to my honest ways…sometimes I feel like a bit of an asshole but luckily my loved ones love me for me. You are inspiring. Thank you.

    Reply

Leave a Reply