It's funny because years ago, when I was in finance, my girlfriend and I would go to these social events.

When people asked what I did, I'd say, "I'm a financial analyst." All I got was a smile and a nod. They didn't think much more of it and/or they just didn't know what else to say. It wasn't like I expected them to ask my favorite Excel Macros.

Then they'd find out my partner was an archaeologist and I'd evaporate into tiny water molecules as they did a joint interview with her (It wasn't a point of jealousy. I'd joke about it with her on the way home).

Today, saying I'm a writer at those events invites 100 questions that are fun to answer. I think there's a mystique to this profession, how we do what we do, how we make money, where ideas come from, etc.

My girlfriend loves to brag about me being a writer too, which is fun and certainly makes me feel appreciated. She’s been along for this journey and supportive all the way. "Writer" is a fun badge to wear.