Pivot: From Fashion Journalist to Landscape Designer.
COVID has forced many senior men and women to completely re-think their career futures. There is so much interest and consideration to reskilling, upskilling and considering complete career pivots.
The fabulous Prue Lewington has built an incredible career as a globetrotting magazine executive and a world renowned fashion journalist. She lived and worked in NYC, London and South America before returning to Sydney and moving to the northern beaches to raise her two gorgeous sons.
She’s now taking on a completely new career path and Prue shared a little more of her story and her future aspirations with Puffling.
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What was your very first job?
I was the Fashion Assistant at Harper’s Bazaar in NYC.
As a kid, what did you think you wanted to be when you grew up?
By 15 I knew I wanted to work in a creative industry that would allow me to travel the globe. The fashion industry was the perfect fit. I’ve worked as a peripatetic fashion journalist most of my career.
So far, I’ve lived in New York, London, Buenos Aires and Sydney.
How did you land in your main area of expertise and looking back, what were some of the key things which contributed to your success?
I think success came because I felt very clear on what I wanted to achieve.
After studying I was picked up by Harper’s Bazaar and started building a network and reputation.
I was very focused. Australians are well respected overseas but having a strong work ethic has been one of the major contributors of my success.
What have been some of your best career lessons or realisations over your rise and career success?
Simple. Always deliver on deadline.
What was your big career U-turn or pivot ?
Transitioning from Fashion Journalist to Landscape Designer.
What was the driving force behind this change?
Since I moved out of the city I’ve been reflecting on family, career and personal growth.
Naturally, our priorities shift as we grow but we rarely get time to stop and review life.
COVID has ultimately contributed to so much change, reflection, consideration to people in terms of their working life and what is important. Has COVID impacted you in terms of your career plans and any alignment of passion, purpose and your personal mission?
Absolutely. The pandemic forced us to postpone meetings and travel.
It was during this time I felt more connected to nature, and pretty quickly knew my career would have to align.
What advice could you share with anyone feeling really stuck or at a career crossroads and contemplating a pivot?
It takes courage to make change and build a rich and rewarding career.
However, it is important to live consciously and find work that makes your heart sing. Don’t be impulsive. There was a unique opportunity in 2020 to pause and create change — but existential questions aren’t answered overnight.
Research and talk to industry insiders before quitting your job. Aim for a slow transition so you don’t burn any bridges.
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Prue Lewington shared her insights with Puffling’s Lija Wilson.
