I was always good with numbers and loved solving problems, so a maths degree felt like a solid choice. When I graduated, qualifying in a profession appealed to me - it offered structure, security, and a real sense of achievement with each exam I passed. As a consultant, I had the opportunity to travel and enjoyed applying my maths skills to business. I always had a creative side, but at the time, it was more of a hobby. I certainly didn’t expect it to become a career.

Looking back, my transition into writing crept up on me. I had always written in some form - taking creative writing classes, keeping a food blog while on secondment in Hong Kong, and even getting a few features published in magazines while still working as an actuary. But it wasn’t until I was on maternity leave that I really started writing seriously. Reading stories with my boys every night reignited my love for storytelling, and before I knew it, I was hooked.

Breaking into publishing was a leap, but I approached it like any new job. I read everything I could, joined critique groups, took feedback on the chin, and kept going. Rejection is such a big part of writing - or any creative pursuit - but so is resilience. Being part of a community of writers kept me going through the tough moments.

There is nothing quite like hearing a child laugh at a joke you wrote or seeing your book on their bookshelf. Knowing I’ve sparked their imagination, even just for a moment, is magic. A friend once told me she caught her nine-year-old daughter staying up late to read my book with a torch under the bedcovers. Another time, I received an email from a mum in Australia who had baked a birthday cake inspired by one of my stories. That’s the best feedback you can get!

My next big move came through a chance conversation with my hairdresser, of all places. Travel has always been a passion - I’ve lived in Paris and Hong Kong and travelled extensively for both work and pleasure. I wanted a business that combined creativity, commercial savvy, and the freedom to work around my kids and writing. Running my own travel company, Reigate Luxury Travel, ticked every box.

Surprisingly, my actuarial background has been a huge asset. The analytical skills I developed help with planning, budgeting, and keeping everything running smoothly. My time in consultancy meant I was used to managing client relationships, which is key in any business. And writing? That’s been invaluable for marketing - so much of success comes down to how you communicate.

If I had to identify a common thread in my career, it would be curiosity and connection. As an actuary, I gravitated toward business development and relationship management. As a writer, I aim to forge a connection with the reader. And in travel, my goal is always to understand my client and find the perfect fit for them.

These career shifts have taught me that it’s never too late to try something new, and that change doesn’t mean leaving behind everything you’ve done before. Each step builds on the last, even if the path isn’t a traditional one.

Alex’s top tip

For anyone considering a career change, my advice is simple: start small, but start. Whether it's a course, a side project, or even just a conversation with someone in the field you’re interested in, everything counts. My writing career began as a weekend hobby, became a maternity leave project, and eventually turned into a full-time job.

Most importantly, back yourself. People will question your choices, and you’ll probably doubt yourself too - but if you have the passion and the work ethic, you’ll find a way to make it work.