Julie Bolejack’s Journey from Corporate Burnout to Artisanal Bliss – and then????
This is the inspiring story of our founder, Julie Bolejack, a woman who transformed her life at the age of 58 from the confines of soul-sucking corporate chaos to the sweet freedom of crafting artisanal chocolates.
The Corporate Struggle: Julie’s journey began in the high-pressure world of a Fortune 50 company, where she was a driving force behind managing multi-million dollar IT projects. Her dedication was unwavering, often clocking in 70-90 hour workweeks. Vacations and family events took a backseat as she battled constant changes in management, and the annual ritual of layoffs regardless of stellar performance. The endless treadmill of stress and instability eventually took its toll, leaving her burnt out and craving a more fulfilling path.
The Awakening in Sedona: It was during a brief respite that Julie’s life took a pivotal turn. A 3-day vacation to the serene landscapes of Sedona, Arizona, provided the perfect backdrop for her soul to rejuvenate. Attending a transformative workshop led by Julia Cameron, Julie had an epiphany – she needed to align her life with her creativity and passions. It was time to break free from the corporate chains.
Following Her Bliss: In a remarkable transition that unfolded within months, Julie bid farewell to the corporate world and embarked on a journey of chocolate-infused dreams. Drawing from her inherent creativity and a newfound sense of purpose, she channeled her energy into becoming an artisan chocolatier. With meticulous care, she crafted delectable confections that reflected not just her skill, but her heart and soul.
A Sweet Triumph: Julie’s dedication bore fruit as she soared to national prominence in the world of artisanal chocolates. Her creations transcended mere sweets; they were an expression of her artistic soul. For 12 years, her chocolatier business brought joy to countless lives, a testament to the power of reinvention and the pursuit of one’s true calling.
Challenges and Resilience: As life unfolded, unforeseen challenges emerged. The pandemic and a family illness forced Julie to make the difficult decision to close her beloved chocolatier business. For the next 3 years, she navigated through adversity, drawing on the same resilience that propelled her from the corporate abyss to chocolate stardom.
A New Chapter at 70: At the age of 70, Julie’s unwavering spirit once again stirs. She recognizes that life’s chapters are not static; they are stories waiting to be written. With a heart full of dreams and experiences to guide her, she embarks on a new venture, one that’s yet to be fully revealed. Her story is a reminder that age is but a number, and the pursuit of passion knows no boundaries.
Join Us: “Passion for the Spirit” is a culmination of Julie’s remarkable journey – a journey that reflects the power of resilience, creativity, and the unwavering pursuit of a life aligned with purpose. Our mission is to inspire and empower others to seek their own path, to follow their creative passions, and to create a spirit-lifting life that truly resonates with their souls.