The magic of embracing risk
Hi Reader,
I am excited to share some news: I’ve opened my practice in France!
While I’ve always dreamed of having my own architectural firm in Europe, I thought it would take much longer to get there. My decision to open my practice this year (2024) was unexpected, but I had compelling reasons to take the leap.
I’ve often wondered why making big decisions feels so strange; I would describe it as a bittersweet experience.
I’ll divide my reflections into three parts: Comfort Zone, Job Hopping, and Risk.
COMFORT ZONE
Last year, I finally became a registered Architect in France. Suddenly, all my struggles to get my qualifications recognized were over, and I could focus on other things, like continuing to learn and grow.
My life felt settled—I had a job that not only was close to home but also specialized in healthcare architecture, something I am passionate about. This job allowed me to be close to my children; I could get to their schools in less than five minutes.
The idea of leaving began to emerge when I realized that my registration as a licensed architect wasn’t really necessary for the firm. They didn’t need another registered architect. While I was fortunate to have a great employer—and I’ll always be grateful for that—my journey to get my recognition felt useless.
That was one of the reasons I started thinking it was the right time to leave. I spent about three months trying to decide whether to go or wait a couple of years, at least to fulfill my personal "3-year rule" (which I’ll explain later in this post).
Sometimes, life pushes you to do things you’re scared of.
This situation also made me realize that, in France, few companies require architects to be formally registered, unlike in the UK, where registration is expected, especially if you want significant responsibilities. In France, having the HMONP (equivalent to Part 3 in the UK) is preferred, but registration is often not a requirement.
JOB HOPPING
I’ve always been a job hopper. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, it refers to someone who actively changes jobs to pursue professional growth. Part of my decision to not stay in one place too long stems from advice my brother gave me when I wanted to quit my first job. He told me that for most companies, we are replaceable, and the value we see in ourselves is not always seen by employers. Staying too long at a company that doesn’t foster learning or growth can be more damaging than being perceived as unsteady.
The 3-Year Rule
Welcome to my personal "three-year rule."
I understand that, depending on where you live, job hopping might not be ideal. However, my experience working in three different countries has taught me something: I can solve problems faster and make better decisions than employees who have been at the same company for over a decade.
Over my 14-year career, I’ve changed jobs every 2.5 to 3 years, all while maintaining my own practice on the side. I typically leave when I realize there’s no more room to grow or learn. I believe three years is a good amount of time to start looking for new challenges if a company doesn’t allow you to advance further.
Breaking the 3-Year Rule
I’ve only broken this rule twice. The first time was when I had to move to Paris, leaving behind a great job in Ireland. The second time just happened a few months ago.
Leaving my last job early was a tough lesson but also an important one: if you don’t value yourself, no one else will. We need to believe in ourselves.
RISK
I’ve learned so much through my journey to get my credentials recognized. I believe deeply in myself, and although I’ve failed many times, I know that failure won’t break me—it only makes me stronger. I’m certain this is how my former employers built their companies.
Not taking risks can be stifling and disheartening. Why should we stay in positions where we feel unsatisfied just for the sake of security?
This is why I founded my practice Artcrafters.
Why not embrace the magic of taking risks?