I was 47 when I told my dad that I'm quitting my job as a senior software developer to become a writer and marketer. His response? "Are you nuts? No. Don't be delusional." As always, I did not listen to him. Because whatever I wanted to do in life, he always said "No, don't do that". When I was facing difficulties at the beginning of my business, my mom suggested to stop being delusional and go work at the local factory. Loved ones will always stop you from achieving success and happiness. Now I have a new wife who's also delusional like me and we're very successful in online business. So being delusional is the new cool.
My parents sound similar to yours. I chalked it up to fear. My parents are from a generation where they experienced the loss of jobs and the great depression. To my parents giving up a good-paying job to do something creative, like in my case being a musician is unfathomable, they think you can't make a good living like that. I compromised with my parents and became a music teacher. Though I love teaching music to students who want to learn, it wasn't my first choice. Good for you and your wife for standing up and doing what you enjoy. When you love what you do, I have found you are the most successful.
my mom told me to work in factory too it must be a southern thing. no other jobs back then and times were tough for them. i am glad i finally got my masters degree. But my mom told me what good is it if i dont use it. She dropped out of school in the 8th grade. She has never been supportive.. She is now 88 and i stopped giving her permission to rain on my parade.
@@deborahp-q3w Congrats on your masters! It's terrible you didn't get the support. Maybe your mom regrets dropping out of school and your higher education is a reminder? Just a thought.
As a mother, I advised my children, when they graduated from high school, to dedicate yourself to what you like and pay your expenses. Everyone decides their way of life. If they make mistakes, they will learn, they should try what they love first
parents will always worry when things are secure and most people don't have the mentality needed to succeed on their own. I wouldn't treat your parents too harshly, they are just worried about you.
The degree you earned taught you much more than industrial design. Education is not wasted but sometimes the end result may not look the way we (or others) think it should. Your education set you up for success in life, no matter what career you pursue. Best wishes for your continued success!
Exactly this! It's great that you figured this out at such a young age and you're so brave to have walked away from something that made you unhappy. A fishing video might be fun!
Girl, I have a master's degree from Harvard and chose to redesign furniture. You (and I) haven't wasted anything! Your education gives you the option to choose what you want to do
A choice to go the way the world goes. A ‘playing it safe’ which is found in fear or a choice to choose life which gives you freedom from fear and is found in faith. The world tells us who to be and what to do. It bankrupts us giving us a spirit of poverty because this life given us as a gift has so much to give and offer if we choose to grasp opportunities outside of culture and tradition. This is where we find God/Truth and see and know a life we never thought possible. This is faith and it works for us!
I am going through a really hard time atm. I am jobless and living on a friends couch. I lost my job and I am feeling super lonely. You are the biggest inspiration in my life. I have always been a talented painter and done a lot of DIY so I have most of the tools I need. I will do some furniture flips and offer my service as a painter decorator. I don't have a driving licence but I will get one of those intensive courses that you can pay in installments so that I can improve my opportunities and won't have to rely on public transport and Uber. Thank you Abby for existing. Everything feels so dark and you have given me hope. ❤
@@Anna-kd4wb Anna, you have trust that God will take care of you. Here’s a good quote to think about: God plants us where we bloom; but we have to pull the weeds! Stop dwelling on the negative. Offer to paint an elderly person’s house, word of mouth will follow. You can do this but you have to get out of your own way! Good luck!
I’m praying for you Anna and you will be so happy and secure on day. Your talent will take you far and you sound like you are a fighter. Keep shinning your light for everyone to see!!!
Anna thank you so much for sharing your story. Just know you are not alone in the way you feel ❤ you have the tools and skills so you are ahead already! I think offering a service would be your best bet right now until you get your license. Maybe you could offer at home refinishing and painting? Where are you from? I’d love to chat more and see how I can help.
You should brand your flips with a custom wood branding iron or attach a small metal engraved tag/ medallion. Your work is beautiful, and you should make it recognisable as an Abbey Askew design. ❤
I am 58 years old and started selling unwanted items from my attic on Mercari and Etsy to make extra money and declutter my home. I TOTALLY feel the thrill of that dopamine hit every time I score a sale! No one in my life understands this! You are so wise to do what speaks to you and not care what others think. It is your life and you only get one to live!
college degree is so overrated. Glad you're able to share your life and passion. keep doing what you love. would love to do diy repair furniture for myself one day
SUGGESTION and OBSERVATION... Abby, there are very few women like you that are so down to earth, honest and true to yourself. You know your worth. Do not change for anyone. Continue to grow and continue to be a role model for the young and old.
Awesome. Loved when you said you liked to go fishing and wanted to make a pond. Your "I can do it" reminds me of myself - if I can find the info, I can do it (as long as I have the tools ;) ). The pond, well, it was a water garden for me - complete with several tons of gravel & sand to fill the base of it to deal with drainage from the neighbors, then the stacked stone walls around the gardens, wiring circuits, soldering copper tubing & doing plumbing, painting, woodworking, replacing engine parts, then... At 66+ it's still a life of learning. You go girl! Finding the niche that works and being happy is pretty cool. I'd say you're putting your degree to work in your business. Education is not necessarily just about the particular field, but the approaches you learn from it - designing, thinking, organizing. Success is what we make it. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Way to go! I was flipping furniture as a side hustle for a few years, was unfulfilled in my job and found myself thinking about flipping furniture all the time. I too felt the rush from my first flip and was hooked. Last year I left my job at 56 years old…it was terrifying but was the best decision ever! I always sell my pieces fast but struggle with the social media aspect. You have inspired me to work at that and I thank you!
I loved hearing your story so much- I felt very similarly quitting my corporate job for sewing, but I 100% agree with you, that working for yourself is worth so much more than the security and benefits. It’s not easy by any means, but being able to do something you’re super passionate about for work is the best. Your story is super inspiring, I hope 2025 brings you even more success 🩷
Your story is fantastic. I’m retired and I’ve flipped a few nightstands and a table and chairs. I also re-did furniture for myself as I had no furniture when I retired and bought a house. I worked for thirty years in education, but there’s a lot to be said for creating something beautiful out of old and damaged furniture. I’m very supportive of furniture artists on you tube and have learned a lot from them. Thanks, Abby.
You are to be commended Abby. It took guts and courage and a business savvy mind to step out of the corporate world and into a private venture. You’re obviously doing everything right as it seems like everyone loves your channel! Keep up the good work and BTW some fine young man will snap you up i no time flat. ❤️❤️❤️
You're doing great being authentic and saying your goals out loud. If there's one thing I've learned is you've got to ask for what you want. I worked in TV production and now I love restoring old houses and I didn't know how to do any of that. And I totally see you buying a giant fixer property with a big workshop barn included so you can renovate it on camera for your RUclips channel. You go girl!
You are going to be just fine, the world is your oyster, you're on the right path, just keep on keeping on! Much success and happiness to you and your future. You got this!
Thank you for sharing your story! I spent years doing the desk thing, “climbing” as high as SVP. Now, I buy abandoned storage units and am happier and healthier than I’ve been in years. Finding a path that fulfills you is a special thing!
Have you considered creating online classes? Some people would love to know how to flip things from dressers to couches. You could do an intro class like a Foundation to Flipping beginners course, then mini-courses on specific aspects of flipping, like flipping dressers, repainting tricks, etc., and your signature course may be Flipping to Fortunes; this would be for those who would love to start it as a side hustle business.
Going to SCAD was like going to Hogwarts to me 😂 I loved it so much. I started in Fashion but wound up in the Furniture Design program. Respect to anyone who did the Industrial Design program ya'll are insane!! ❤
I've been in the commercial furniture business for over 30 years. You give me inspiration in so many ways. I'm vey happy for you and your journey. I definitely have something to look forward to once I semi retire. Thanks
You didn’t waste your degree at all. Think of all the design principles you learned that are absolutely integral for you to produce your finished product. I watch some people online that obviously do not have any art/design training, and it shows. I have a degree in graphic design, and while I never did that, I appreciate everything I learned in school. I went on to become a mosaic artist, open an Etsy shop sewing felt pillows and more; all of my training has been integral in the things I make. Love your work!
You have to follow your own heart. People will always judge you no matter what. I did similar to you and by my second year I replaced my full time income. Not because I wanted to prove it to other people, but because I knew I could do it & I loved what I was doing.You seem to be a genuinely good person, and I wish you the best. Remember, it's your life.
The last 12 years has been spent building a life with my now ex. For the last few weeks I have been absolutely adrift. The feeling of loss and doubt has been pretty heavy. This little video somehow made me realize it's going to be ok. It was only a flash, but it felt good. Thank you for this video.
Good for you Abby, I got my degree when I was 40….i worked with it for 14 years…. I’ve now quit and I have just started flipping, I do spend a lot of time adding moulding and designing my piece, to each their own, I wish you all the best, and hope you cleaned your brother garage before you went camping ❤️🏴
Hey im an industrial designer too. I used to design furniture and even won a competition that took me to High Point North Carolina which is the furniture capital for the USA. I couldn't find steady work as an industrial either, the I switched to UX/UI. Did that for a few years then got laid off during covid and haven't found work since then. Design is tough and very competitive career. I used work in a bodyshop and was also an engine builder so I quit design and tech and opened up auto repair and detailing side business. It was successful and now I'm trying to go back to using my industrial design skills start my own furniture design and woodworking busines where everything is designed and hand built by me. It's so awesome to hear your journey and I admire your gumption and courage.
The one factor people should always carefully consider when taking that risk is medical insurance and costs which come with a lower coverage plan though. That is a big part of earned salary which becomes a huge cost when self-employed. Moving home can be what we need at certain times in our life. I moved my children back to my hometown after my husband died suddenly. Having family and lifelong friends just minutes away was what I needed at that time.
What a great story, Abby!! I'm so happy for you to have found something you love at such a young age. And be able to support yourself and plan for the future 🎉 That's a lot of hard work and dreaming.
I loved hearing your story! I'm almost 61yo, just got an awesome job with an amazing company. It's the sit down all day part that's hard. And the tech part which I'm not great at, but I'm going to be the best I can be and work towards self employment for my future. Thank you for the great ideas! Wishing you all the best ❤
Ms. Abby. So i was blessed with my grandchildren hanging out with me today. First thing my Lila Rae asked is if Abby had any new videos out. So we looked and here we are. She has since gone home, for i didn't want to take any Papa time away from her while writing you. She so enjoys your videos, and you are truly an inspiration. Thank you again for sharing you're story. As of yet, I have failed to find her first piece to work on over Christmas break, but i will. Thank you so much for what you do and, allowing yourself to be so vulnerable. We both enjoyed your outro...Again, Thank You.
A couple thoughts: I'm old now so I can give out unsolicited random advice when I feel like it. 1) Getting a solid education of any kind, subject, etc. is never a waste, always valuable 2) never let your degree or diploma keep you from making a good living at something completely different, I have 4 degrees and make most of my income from something completely different. 3) everyone should take the 'Briggs-Myers' test to help them understand their strengths/weaknesses and talents. I wish I had done this when I was young. Take the test and maybe you'll discover why you wanted to mow the lawn rather than sit in an office👍
I'm so happy for you that you found something that you genuinely enjoy and can make a living at it. Your bravery and perseverance is paying off for you. Congratulations!
I couldn’t love this more. Thank you as always for being so real, relatable and inspiring. This inspiration you’ve gifted us all couldn’t have come at a better time for me personally. Keep killin’ it!
Abby~ will you please do a vid about the tech/ RUclips side of your business? I know you said you MIGHT do that so I’m here to encourage you to help us poor slobs out here and do the video! TY! ☺️
@flippedbyabby Abby I have a Kiesel guitar soft case that needs one small modification so the Wammy Barr can stay attached when the guitar is placed inside. Basicly raise the middle and add foam to fit custom job. Can you or do you know someone who can do this. It a small job that is necessary.
My story is almost identical to yours! I work twice the hours selling furniture than I spent in the office but i'm twice as happy. I love working for myself
I was tht guy staring out the window i felt trapped chained like a prisoner.im in the wood finishing and painting 4 the last 30 years its great .keep up the good work..very proud of ya!
I think you're freaking amazing Abby. I spent too many years in an office, working someone else's plan, to end in a corporate downsizing anyway! You're young and you're smart. I, like you, love working with my hands. Keep on keeping on! ❤
Sounds like you are using your education to take yourself where you want to go. At the end of the day, it seems like that's the whole point of an education, right? Good for you for following your heart. 💚
Thank you for sharing your journey. I have no real desire to be a content creator but I would love to refinish some of my own things but taking the first step is hard because I don't have tools so paint and hand sanding are my only avenue. So I watch you for those painting, staining tips. I also appreciate how real you are. There are so many furniture flippers on RUclips and I watch alot of them but you are sort of an anomaly. Your body language matches your verbal communication and I know you will always do well because it shines through. You are really one of the one Abby. 😊
You are amazing Abby! Keep following your gut. You have great instincts and you’ve proven that. Keep feeling those instincts and following your intuition. Go girl!!
You're doing exactly what I wanted to do when I left Uni, fellow industrial designer as well. Your message is super motivating, and your progress is awesome! looking forward to seeing how you grow.
Very inspiring I am a full time caretaker for a family member and feels like I could never work again thank you for proving me that anything we enjoy and are interested in sufficiently can be sustainable as a job
You have such a relatable persona - even to the point of hearing a bit of nervousness still in your voice! I think, maybe even without you realizing it yet, you have already inspired people! Keep doing what makes you happy, keep learning and prosper. Thanks for sharing your story!
I could tell where this was going from the start with the shaky voice, many ups and downs along your journey but you stuck with it and it paid off in the end! I know what it's like to have people doubt you and your choices, it's not easy... and doing all this right after a breakup, the fact you said f it and pushed through is really inspiring for a lot of people i'm sure! You're beautiful, intelligent, hardworking, you've built yourself a damn good business from a hope and dream, if no one else says it, I'm very proud of you ❤ It's been such a blessing to follow along your journey. Love how derpy you are, it adds a level of realism to the content, as for your house being a fixer upper does that mean we can expect a series on fixing the house? that'd be kinda fun! in my early 20s i was living alone and had my own personal things happen that resulted in me moving back home, my mom is my biggest supporter, she always gives me the encouragement i need to keep going. Unfortunately I've been at a crossroad of wanting to try/have tried so many different "careers", my family has a long history of being hands on workers, i love doing things/building things by hand (always had interest in blacksmithing, making things from scratch like cutting boards and other types of wooden things) I like fixing/repairing things, ive actually thought about furniture flipping years ago, i love gemology, did some computer programming (website stuff, game dev), honestly i think my problem is i have too many options and somehow it seems to make it harder for me and i feel demoralized all the time if that makes sense?...
Abby, any person can only be happy if they are following their own dreams - not trying to follow the expectations of others. Glad to know that you are following yours. You Go Girl.
Very inspirational!!! Thank you for this video! I build tables and desks and stuff like that but have been wanting to flip furniture for the last several years. I am the same way about the video editing and such. Thanks again.
You are definitely using your education. Your degree in industrial design is a great tool to have especially in your business. You should hang a copy of your degree next to your other tools in your shop. You are not just a furniture flipper, you are running a business.
I love that your family is so supportive. So many people do not have that, and their dreams are hard to realize. I also commend you for making a plan. Saving 10K is quite a goal but you knew it was the right thing and you did it. You have a lot of wisdom for your age.
So proud of you, Abby. There's nothing like doing something you love. You live your passion. I have a Master of Educ. Degree & wished I had pursued my passion for photography. My photo professor tried to get me to change my major. But, I only had a semester left to graduate. You are an inspiration. Maybe one day I'll pursue this dream. Tfs. May God bless you to continue to prosper. 🎉🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤. Pcoff
i am working my way to your lifestyle .. doing small woodworking projects and going to leave my corporate job next year and feeling already better than ever. thanks for the inspiration
I had this same interest like, four years ago and didn't do anything. I let life routine erase my interest. I enjoy working with my hands too. Its my strong suit. I'm definitely going to pursue my interest this time. Thanks for the reminder and motivation.
Inspiring story, I love how grounded you are. Taking risks, but making sure they're calculated risks. Creating content and becoming an "influencer", but understanding it's about long term income not short term fame. You're still so young but I feel like you have such an exciting and varied career in front of you because you have that understanding of what's important in life.
I understand getting emotional. You are doing something that is fulfilling and providing the future you want to have. It is amazing when we trust in a process that it all works out.
Just to let you know you didn't waste your college you should be proud you even got one which a lot of people don't have heck not even a high school degree. my point is sometimes you got fellow your heart and do what makes you happy besides money is just a number. other than that, you will one day be financial free and get a house because your business will grow before you know it Abby ... no I'm not a subscriber yet. just wanted you to know what I thought hope it helps kiddo good luck in your future job hope to see more to come any questions feel free to ask or even your opinions. until next time peace.
Great video Abby! I'm at the point where I'm ready to quit my job because my furniture business is strong. It's definitely a scary leap of faith. Keep chasing your dreams!
You're very authentic and transparent! I can tell already you'll achieve everything you want in life! Frick yeah! Also shouts to Brooke for making sure clips make it to RUclips 😂
When we are children the education system teaches us to conform so we learn to follow the social order; as I matured I learned that I can be who I want to and nobody cared what house, car, career, etc. I have. It is all about fulfilling your dream. By the looks you took a great first step. Congratulations!
I have not watched a lot of your videos but from what I've seen, I must compliment you on not doing the "click bait" tight shorts and low cut shirts thing.
It sounds as if you fell into the right career at a great time, and that you really did not waste your college education since you are business savvy! Your parents must be proud of you! Good luck with your business venture!
Hi neighbor! We're in the same hood. I stumbled across you on IG and enjoy your content. I'm a furniture artist and have been in business for four years. I embellish and hand paint scenes on my furniture and agree that is not what always sells on Marketplace. 1- it's expensive and 2- it's unique. Most of my pieces sell from my website. Great advice about content creation as that is definitely my weakness. I just want to create, but I also need to generate content to get my unique pieces sold. My main excuse is I don't want to be on camera!! This has been great and I would love to see a video on social media content creation tips. Keep going, girl! Very proud of you!!
Thank you smooch for sharing this personal story. It is so inspiring. I’m trying to leave corporate America after nearly 35 years, and I still feel awkward. Thanks again for keeping it real! ❤
Roll Tide! Former furniture flipper to home builder!!! You are clearly the brand. Go fishing make it the content too. Some will maybe see you at Bass Pro one day promoting products for a hefty fee. Enjoy the ride! Very well done!
You are so brave and amazing! I’ve been flipping things for decades. But I haven’t been consistently flipping! I would love to start a RUclips channel but I just haven’t, my life has been a challenge! 2020 I lost my Spa business and the love of my life suddenly passed away! It’s been a journey just getting out of bed so days ! I have a small booth in a vintage mall I scaled up and I didn’t make much more money 💰 and my overhead was doubled. So I scaled back to one booth and changed my booth around monthly and add more items weekly ! This was one of my best months best still not where I would like to be . I also sell online which I have done since 1999 . Clothing has become my main seller and smalls . I plan on making things out of jeans and see how that works as well ! Your story is definitely I An inspiration! Thanks 🙏
I was 47 when I told my dad that I'm quitting my job as a senior software developer to become a writer and marketer. His response? "Are you nuts? No. Don't be delusional." As always, I did not listen to him. Because whatever I wanted to do in life, he always said "No, don't do that". When I was facing difficulties at the beginning of my business, my mom suggested to stop being delusional and go work at the local factory. Loved ones will always stop you from achieving success and happiness. Now I have a new wife who's also delusional like me and we're very successful in online business. So being delusional is the new cool.
My parents sound similar to yours. I chalked it up to fear. My parents are from a generation where they experienced the loss of jobs and the great depression. To my parents giving up a good-paying job to do something creative, like in my case being a musician is unfathomable, they think you can't make a good living like that. I compromised with my parents and became a music teacher. Though I love teaching music to students who want to learn, it wasn't my first choice. Good for you and your wife for standing up and doing what you enjoy. When you love what you do, I have found you are the most successful.
my mom told me to work in factory too it must be a southern thing. no other jobs back then and times were tough for them. i am glad i finally got my masters degree. But my mom told me what good is it if i dont use it. She dropped out of school in the 8th grade. She has never been supportive.. She is now 88 and i stopped giving her permission to rain on my parade.
@@deborahp-q3w Congrats on your masters! It's terrible you didn't get the support. Maybe your mom regrets dropping out of school and your higher education is a reminder? Just a thought.
As a mother, I advised my children, when they graduated from high school, to dedicate yourself to what you like and pay your expenses. Everyone decides their way of life. If they make mistakes, they will learn, they should try what they love first
parents will always worry when things are secure and most people don't have the mentality needed to succeed on their own. I wouldn't treat your parents too harshly, they are just worried about you.
The degree you earned taught you much more than industrial design. Education is not wasted but sometimes the end result may not look the way we (or others) think it should. Your education set you up for success in life, no matter what career you pursue. Best wishes for your continued success!
I totally agree with this. An education is never wasted.
Yup, if it’s a good education it taught you how to learn. You obviously got your money’s worth.
Amen! So proud of you and, and i am so happy you've found your passion! Life is way too short not to be doing something you love and enjoy.😊❤🎉
Exactly this! It's great that you figured this out at such a young age and you're so brave to have walked away from something that made you unhappy. A fishing video might be fun!
You go gal! Do what makes you happy.
Girl, I have a master's degree from Harvard and chose to redesign furniture. You (and I) haven't wasted anything! Your education gives you the option to choose what you want to do
@@kahlahmacedo6752 love this and I bet your redesigns are beautiful.
A choice to go the way the world goes. A ‘playing it safe’ which is found in fear or a choice to choose life which gives you freedom from fear and is found in faith. The world tells us who to be and what to do. It bankrupts us giving us a spirit of poverty because this life given us as a gift has so much to give and offer if we choose to grasp opportunities outside of culture and tradition. This is where we find God/Truth and see and know a life we never thought possible. This is faith and it works for us!
@@HubertineSisowalth-sr4jg This is very beautifully said. I whole heartedly agree!
Nowadays everyone looks delusional 😂😂😂
1000% this!
Don’t stress about moving back in with your family. They don’t last forever so just keep embracing it and soak in all the time you can with them!
Creative people are risk takers, we would rather risk uncertainty than have a life ending in regret.
Well said
I am going through a really hard time atm. I am jobless and living on a friends couch. I lost my job and I am feeling super lonely. You are the biggest inspiration in my life. I have always been a talented painter and done a lot of DIY so I have most of the tools I need. I will do some furniture flips and offer my service as a painter decorator. I don't have a driving licence but I will get one of those intensive courses that you can pay in installments so that I can improve my opportunities and won't have to rely on public transport and Uber. Thank you Abby for existing. Everything feels so dark and you have given me hope. ❤
@@Anna-kd4wb Anna, you have trust that God will take care of you. Here’s a good quote to think about: God plants us where we bloom; but we have to pull the weeds! Stop dwelling on the negative. Offer to paint an elderly person’s house, word of mouth will follow. You can do this but you have to get out of your own way! Good luck!
I’m praying for you Anna and you will be so happy and secure on day. Your talent will take you far and you sound like you are a fighter. Keep shinning your light for everyone to see!!!
Anna thank you so much for sharing your story. Just know you are not alone in the way you feel ❤ you have the tools and skills so you are ahead already! I think offering a service would be your best bet right now until you get your license. Maybe you could offer at home refinishing and painting? Where are you from? I’d love to chat more and see how I can help.
Please send me an email! Flippedbyabby@gmail.com
Thank you for sharing
You should brand your flips with a custom wood branding iron or attach a small metal engraved tag/ medallion. Your work is beautiful, and you should make it recognisable as an Abbey Askew design. ❤
Purr!
I totally agree! Or a coin you could router in.
I agree!
Agreed!♥️
I am 58 years old and started selling unwanted items from my attic on Mercari and Etsy to make extra money and declutter my home. I TOTALLY feel the thrill of that dopamine hit every time I score a sale! No one in my life understands this! You are so wise to do what speaks to you and not care what others think. It is your life and you only get one to live!
Amazing ❤ and inspirational!!!
How are you finding Etsy? I have heard it is expensive now to sell on.. are you doing it casually or very intently and then , is it worth it for you?
college degree is so overrated. Glad you're able to share your life and passion. keep doing what you love. would love to do diy repair furniture for myself one day
SUGGESTION and OBSERVATION... Abby, there are very few women like you that are so down to earth, honest and true to yourself. You know your worth. Do not change for anyone. Continue to grow and continue to be a role model for the young and old.
Awesome. Loved when you said you liked to go fishing and wanted to make a pond. Your "I can do it" reminds me of myself - if I can find the info, I can do it (as long as I have the tools ;) ). The pond, well, it was a water garden for me - complete with several tons of gravel & sand to fill the base of it to deal with drainage from the neighbors, then the stacked stone walls around the gardens, wiring circuits, soldering copper tubing & doing plumbing, painting, woodworking, replacing engine parts, then... At 66+ it's still a life of learning. You go girl! Finding the niche that works and being happy is pretty cool. I'd say you're putting your degree to work in your business. Education is not necessarily just about the particular field, but the approaches you learn from it - designing, thinking, organizing. Success is what we make it. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Way to go! I was flipping furniture as a side hustle for a few years, was unfulfilled in my job and found myself thinking about flipping furniture all the time. I too felt the rush from my first flip and was hooked. Last year I left my job at 56 years old…it was terrifying but was the best decision ever! I always sell my pieces fast but struggle with the social media aspect. You have inspired me to work at that and I thank you!
I loved hearing your story so much- I felt very similarly quitting my corporate job for sewing, but I 100% agree with you, that working for yourself is worth so much more than the security and benefits. It’s not easy by any means, but being able to do something you’re super passionate about for work is the best. Your story is super inspiring, I hope 2025 brings you even more success 🩷
Your story is fantastic. I’m retired and I’ve flipped a few nightstands and a table and chairs. I also re-did furniture for myself as I had no furniture when I retired and bought a house. I worked for thirty years in education, but there’s a lot to be said for creating something beautiful out of old and damaged furniture. I’m very supportive of furniture artists on you tube and have learned a lot from them. Thanks, Abby.
You are to be commended Abby. It took guts and courage and a business savvy mind to step out of the corporate world and into a private venture. You’re obviously doing everything right as it seems like everyone loves your channel! Keep up the good work and BTW some fine young man will snap you up i no time flat. ❤️❤️❤️
You're doing great being authentic and saying your goals out loud. If there's one thing I've learned is you've got to ask for what you want. I worked in TV production and now I love restoring old houses and I didn't know how to do any of that. And I totally see you buying a giant fixer property with a big workshop barn included so you can renovate it on camera for your RUclips channel. You go girl!
You are going to be just fine, the world is your oyster, you're on the right path, just keep on keeping on! Much success and happiness to you and your future. You got this!
Thank you for sharing your story! I spent years doing the desk thing, “climbing” as high as SVP. Now, I buy abandoned storage units and am happier and healthier than I’ve been in years. Finding a path that fulfills you is a special thing!
Have you considered creating online classes? Some people would love to know how to flip things from dressers to couches. You could do an intro class like a Foundation to Flipping beginners course, then mini-courses on specific aspects of flipping, like flipping dressers, repainting tricks, etc., and your signature course may be Flipping to Fortunes; this would be for those who would love to start it as a side hustle business.
Going to SCAD was like going to Hogwarts to me 😂 I loved it so much. I started in Fashion but wound up in the Furniture Design program. Respect to anyone who did the Industrial Design program ya'll are insane!! ❤
I am SO jealous!!! I wish I did furniture design instead of industrial design! lol
I've been in the commercial furniture business for over 30 years. You give me inspiration in so many ways. I'm vey happy for you and your journey. I definitely have something to look forward to once I semi retire. Thanks
Sometimes we have to hurt really bad to get to where we are meant to be. Thank you for sharing your story. You most definitely inspire others.
You didn’t waste your degree at all. Think of all the design principles you learned that are absolutely integral for you to produce your finished product. I watch some people online that obviously do not have any art/design training, and it shows. I have a degree in graphic design, and while I never did that, I appreciate everything I learned in school. I went on to become a mosaic artist, open an Etsy shop sewing felt pillows and more; all of my training has been integral in the things I make. Love your work!
You have to follow your own heart. People will always judge you no matter what. I did similar to you and by my second year I replaced my full time income. Not because I wanted to prove it to other people, but because I knew I could do it & I loved what I was doing.You seem to be a genuinely good person, and I wish you the best. Remember, it's your life.
I am so inspired. I am a second grade teacher and am so unhappy. Furniture flipping is something I am very interested in. Thank you for the video.
The last 12 years has been spent building a life with my now ex. For the last few weeks I have been absolutely adrift. The feeling of loss and doubt has been pretty heavy. This little video somehow made me realize it's going to be ok. It was only a flash, but it felt good. Thank you for this video.
Good for you Abby, I got my degree when I was 40….i worked with it for 14 years…. I’ve now quit and I have just started flipping, I do spend a lot of time adding moulding and designing my piece, to each their own, I wish you all the best, and hope you cleaned your brother garage before you went camping ❤️🏴
Hey im an industrial designer too. I used to design furniture and even won a competition that took me to High Point North Carolina which is the furniture capital for the USA. I couldn't find steady work as an industrial either, the I switched to UX/UI. Did that for a few years then got laid off during covid and haven't found work since then. Design is tough and very competitive career. I used work in a bodyshop and was also an engine builder so I quit design and tech and opened up auto repair and detailing side business. It was successful and now I'm trying to go back to using my industrial design skills start my own furniture design and woodworking busines where everything is designed and hand built by me. It's so awesome to hear your journey and I admire your gumption and courage.
You are so brave and I’m so proud of you! Best wishes going forward
The thing that is key mentioning too, is that YOU are a badass. You are the product that people want and like.
You are so sweet 🥹 ❤️
The one factor people should always carefully consider when taking that risk is medical insurance and costs which come with a lower coverage plan though. That is a big part of earned salary which becomes a huge cost when self-employed. Moving home can be what we need at certain times in our life. I moved my children back to my hometown after my husband died suddenly. Having family and lifelong friends just minutes away was what I needed at that time.
What a great story, Abby!! I'm so happy for you to have found something you love at such a young age. And be able to support yourself and plan for the future 🎉 That's a lot of hard work and dreaming.
I loved hearing your story! I'm almost 61yo, just got an awesome job with an amazing company. It's the sit down all day part that's hard. And the tech part which I'm not great at, but I'm going to be the best I can be and work towards self employment for my future.
Thank you for the great ideas! Wishing you all the best ❤
Ms. Abby. So i was blessed with my grandchildren hanging out with me today. First thing my Lila Rae asked is if Abby had any new videos out. So we looked and here we are. She has since gone home, for i didn't want to take any Papa time away from her while writing you. She so enjoys your videos, and you are truly an inspiration. Thank you again for sharing you're story. As of yet, I have failed to find her first piece to work on over Christmas break, but i will. Thank you so much for what you do and, allowing yourself to be so vulnerable. We both enjoyed your outro...Again, Thank You.
A couple thoughts: I'm old now so I can give out unsolicited random advice when I feel like it. 1) Getting a solid education of any kind, subject, etc. is never a waste, always valuable 2) never let your degree or diploma keep you from making a good living at something completely different, I have 4 degrees and make most of my income from something completely different. 3) everyone should take the 'Briggs-Myers' test to help them understand their strengths/weaknesses and talents. I wish I had done this when I was young. Take the test and maybe you'll discover why you wanted to mow the lawn rather than sit in an office👍
Everything works out when you follow your heart. Best wishes to you and your family.
I'm so happy for you that you found something that you genuinely enjoy and can make a living at it. Your bravery and perseverance is paying off for you. Congratulations!
Thanks for sharing. Love that your brother gives you space to make your dream job a reality!
I'm rooting for you Abby. Thanks for sharing. This means a lot. Love you.
Thank you so much! Means a lot to me! ❤
I couldn’t love this more. Thank you as always for being so real, relatable and inspiring. This inspiration you’ve gifted us all couldn’t have come at a better time for me personally. Keep killin’ it!
Abby~ will you please do a vid about the tech/ RUclips side of your business? I know you said you MIGHT do that so I’m here to encourage you to help us poor slobs out here and do the video! TY! ☺️
A podcast is actually coming out this week on The Cypress Room channel! ❤
@@flippedbyabby❤
@flippedbyabby Abby I have a Kiesel guitar soft case that needs one small modification so the Wammy Barr can stay attached when the guitar is placed inside. Basicly raise the middle and add foam to fit custom job. Can you or do you know someone who can do this. It a small job that is necessary.
@@flippedbyabby. I watched it! About 3 times!!! So much god information! Thanks!!!
My story is almost identical to yours! I work twice the hours selling furniture than I spent in the office but i'm twice as happy. I love working for myself
Yes!!! I love this for you!! Do something you love and it doesn’t feel like work
Dear Abby, I stumbled across your channel accidently. I'm old enough to be your Mom and I'm proud of you! You are living my dream!!!
Thank you so much! I'm glad you're enjoying the journey with me. 🙂
I love how open a book you are. “This is like this because this boom done”
I was tht guy staring out the window i felt trapped chained like a prisoner.im in the wood finishing and painting 4 the last 30 years its great .keep up the good work..very proud of ya!
Congrats...Go girl! 🎉
You are so authentic! I just loved this video! I REALLY hope you share your house search and most especially the renovation!
I’m so glad you liked it! I will definitely share about the reno! ❤
@ Awesome! Good luck!
I think you're freaking amazing Abby. I spent too many years in an office, working someone else's plan, to end in a corporate downsizing anyway! You're young and you're smart. I, like you, love working with my hands. Keep on keeping on! ❤
Sounds like you are using your education to take yourself where you want to go. At the end of the day, it seems like that's the whole point of an education, right? Good for you for following your heart. 💚
Thank you for sharing your journey. I have no real desire to be a content creator but I would love to refinish some of my own things but taking the first step is hard because I don't have tools so paint and hand sanding are my only avenue. So I watch you for those painting, staining tips. I also appreciate how real you are. There are so many furniture flippers on RUclips and I watch alot of them but you are sort of an anomaly. Your body language matches your verbal communication and I know you will always do well because it shines through. You are really one of the one Abby. 😊
thank you for sharing such a personal story with us
great work abby !!!!
You are amazing Abby! Keep following your gut. You have great instincts and you’ve proven that. Keep feeling those instincts and following your intuition. Go girl!!
You're doing exactly what I wanted to do when I left Uni, fellow industrial designer as well. Your message is super motivating, and your progress is awesome! looking forward to seeing how you grow.
YOUR STORY IS AWESOME! KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
I love your story and how transparent you are with some very intimate thoughts. You're so humble... Thank you for doing this!
You and those like you are strong and Courageous. You go girl, show the world.
You are an inspiration to all who finds your channel. Keep up the good work.
Thank you so much! ❤
I never got the architecture degree. But I designed my own home. While I was praised, it never got to my head. I just knew what I wanted. So do you. ❤
You are authentic, honest and relatable. Keep doing what you do and i will be there to enjoy your progress! 😊
Very inspiring
I am a full time caretaker for a family member and feels like I could never work again
thank you for proving me that anything we enjoy and are interested in sufficiently can be sustainable as a job
Getting emotional with you!! Your story is very moving. I feel the way you did right now at the age of 54. This encourages me alot! Thank you Abby😊
What a real authentic moment @ 8:03. The unconventional is met with confusion rather than immediate understanding.
Congrats for following your heart!
You have such a relatable persona - even to the point of hearing a bit of nervousness still in your voice! I think, maybe even without you realizing it yet, you have already inspired people! Keep doing what makes you happy, keep learning and prosper. Thanks for sharing your story!
I could tell where this was going from the start with the shaky voice, many ups and downs along your journey but you stuck with it and it paid off in the end!
I know what it's like to have people doubt you and your choices, it's not easy... and doing all this right after a breakup, the fact you said f it and pushed through is really inspiring for a lot of people i'm sure!
You're beautiful, intelligent, hardworking, you've built yourself a damn good business from a hope and dream, if no one else says it, I'm very proud of you ❤
It's been such a blessing to follow along your journey.
Love how derpy you are, it adds a level of realism to the content, as for your house being a fixer upper does that mean we can expect a series on fixing the house? that'd be kinda fun!
in my early 20s i was living alone and had my own personal things happen that resulted in me moving back home, my mom is my biggest supporter, she always gives me the encouragement i need to keep going. Unfortunately I've been at a crossroad of wanting to try/have tried so many different "careers", my family has a long history of being hands on workers, i love doing things/building things by hand (always had interest in blacksmithing, making things from scratch like cutting boards and other types of wooden things) I like fixing/repairing things, ive actually thought about furniture flipping years ago, i love gemology, did some computer programming (website stuff, game dev), honestly i think my problem is i have too many options and somehow it seems to make it harder for me and i feel demoralized all the time if that makes sense?...
Abby, any person can only be happy if they are following their own dreams - not trying to follow the expectations of others. Glad to know that you are following yours. You Go Girl.
Very inspirational!!! Thank you for this video! I build tables and desks and stuff like that but have been wanting to flip furniture for the last several years. I am the same way about the video editing and such. Thanks again.
No one can ever take your education away from you. Do what you want to do and what makes you happy.
Based on this video, you are a strong young lady and I’d be proud to call you my daughter.
You are definitely using your education. Your degree in industrial design is a great tool to have especially in your business. You should hang a copy of your degree next to your other tools in your shop. You are not just a furniture flipper, you are running a business.
You are a very brave young lady. You going home was a good move. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. I love watching you. Take care.
I very much enjoyed your story. Thank you for sharing!
Congrats on choosing the lifestyle you desire and making it happen!
You go girl! 100% on point stay strong stay healthy, dreams do come true...
Thank you so much!
I am watching your videos for a month and I am hooked. I really love to see the end result... Keep the good work; Cheers from Canada.
I love that your family is so supportive. So many people do not have that, and their dreams are hard to realize. I also commend you for making a plan. Saving 10K is quite a goal but you knew it was the right thing and you did it. You have a lot of wisdom for your age.
So proud of you, Abby. There's nothing like doing something you love. You live your passion. I have a Master of Educ. Degree & wished I had pursued my passion for photography. My photo professor tried to get me to change my major. But, I only had a semester left to graduate. You are an inspiration. Maybe one day
I'll pursue this dream. Tfs. May God bless you to continue to prosper. 🎉🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤. Pcoff
I really liked seeing this side of you. Very inspiring. You are brave, authentic and resilient. Can’t wait to see you tackle your fixer upper!
i am working my way to your lifestyle .. doing small woodworking projects and going to leave my corporate job next year and feeling already better than ever. thanks for the inspiration
I had this same interest like, four years ago and didn't do anything. I let life routine erase my interest. I enjoy working with my hands too. Its my strong suit. I'm definitely going to pursue my interest this time. Thanks for the reminder and motivation.
Inspiring story, I love how grounded you are. Taking risks, but making sure they're calculated risks. Creating content and becoming an "influencer", but understanding it's about long term income not short term fame. You're still so young but I feel like you have such an exciting and varied career in front of you because you have that understanding of what's important in life.
I understand getting emotional. You are doing something that is fulfilling and providing the future you want to have. It is amazing when we trust in a process that it all works out.
As a really old guy, I can really relate to your story! Congratulations!
The magic of thinking big Abby.. you got this ❤
Just to let you know you didn't waste your college you should be proud you even got one which a lot of people don't have heck not even a high school degree. my point is sometimes you got fellow your heart and do what makes you happy besides money is just a number. other than that, you will one day be financial free and get a house because your business will grow before you know it Abby ... no I'm not a subscriber yet. just wanted you to know what I thought hope it helps kiddo good luck in your future job hope to see more to come any questions feel free to ask or even your opinions. until next time peace.
Look at how nice your furniture looks! Great job and decision!
Great video Abby! I'm at the point where I'm ready to quit my job because my furniture business is strong. It's definitely a scary leap of faith.
Keep chasing your dreams!
Thanks for being so honest and transparent about your back story, now you make me want to flip furniture.
You're very authentic and transparent! I can tell already you'll achieve everything you want in life! Frick yeah!
Also shouts to Brooke for making sure clips make it to RUclips 😂
When we are children the education system teaches us to conform so we learn to follow the social order; as I matured I learned that I can be who I want to and nobody cared what house, car, career, etc. I have. It is all about fulfilling your dream. By the looks you took a great first step. Congratulations!
i love flipping old furniture. Have to have patience. Good job, young lady. Blessed..
Love how this woman thinks and takes action!
I have not watched a lot of your videos but from what I've seen, I must compliment you on not doing the "click bait" tight shorts and low cut shirts thing.
She seems like a nice young woman. A catch, I would say, to a lucky man
Thank you!
It sounds as if you fell into the right career at a great time, and that you really did not waste your college education since you are business savvy! Your parents must be proud of you! Good luck with your business venture!
I loved hearing your story, I can feel the emotion in your voice, it is very inspiring ❤
Hi neighbor! We're in the same hood. I stumbled across you on IG and enjoy your content. I'm a furniture artist and have been in business for four years. I embellish and hand paint scenes on my furniture and agree that is not what always sells on Marketplace. 1- it's expensive and 2- it's unique. Most of my pieces sell from my website. Great advice about content creation as that is definitely my weakness. I just want to create, but I also need to generate content to get my unique pieces sold. My main excuse is I don't want to be on camera!! This has been great and I would love to see a video on social media content creation tips. Keep going, girl! Very proud of you!!
Thank you smooch for sharing this personal story. It is so inspiring. I’m trying to leave corporate America after nearly 35 years, and I still feel awkward. Thanks again for keeping it real! ❤
Roll Tide! Former furniture flipper to home builder!!! You are clearly the brand. Go fishing make it the content too. Some will maybe see you at Bass Pro one day promoting products for a hefty fee. Enjoy the ride! Very well done!
Thank you so much for this video. The authenticity, and vulnerability is truly inspiring. So many valuable lessons and takeaways. Keep it up!
You are so brave and amazing! I’ve been flipping things for decades. But I haven’t been consistently flipping! I would love to start a RUclips channel but I just haven’t, my life has been a challenge! 2020 I lost my Spa business and the love of my life suddenly passed away! It’s been a journey just getting out of bed so days !
I have a small booth in a vintage mall I scaled up and I didn’t make much more money 💰 and my overhead was doubled. So I scaled back to one booth and changed my booth around monthly and add more items weekly ! This was one of my best months best still not where I would like to be . I also sell online which I have done since 1999 . Clothing has become my main seller and smalls . I plan on making things out of jeans and see how that works as well ! Your story is definitely I
An inspiration! Thanks 🙏