Falling Off The Ladder: Revamp your mindset and thrive in self-employment

The traditional career ladder isn’t for everyone, and Helen Hill’s Falling Off The Ladder is the perfect guide for those who find themselves questioning whether the standard workplace culture is really for them. If you’ve ever felt out of place in corporate life, struggled with burnout, or simply wanted more autonomy over your work, this book will feel like a warm and reassuring chat with a friend who’s been there, done that, and is ready to help you navigate self-employment on your own terms.

Helen’s writing is engaging, full of humour, and refreshingly honest. She takes us through her own “squiggly career” journey, from employment-induced meltdowns to thriving as a business owner. Along the way, she shares practical advice, mindset shifts, and hands-on exercises that help you move past the beliefs that may be holding you back. What’s particularly refreshing is the lack of ‘hustle culture’ rhetoric—there’s no pressure to wake up at 5 a.m., grind endlessly, or become a stereotypical ‘preneur’. Instead, the focus is on designing a work-life that truly works for you.

Whether you’re considering self-employment, just starting out, or already on your freelance journey and looking to keep learning, Falling Off The Ladder is packed with insights, real-life stories, and journal prompts that will help you reflect on what really matters. It’s a must-read for anyone feeling disillusioned with the corporate world and looking for an alternative path. Helen’s warm, no-nonsense approach will leave you feeling inspired, confident, and ready to embrace the freedom and joy of working for yourself.

If you’re on the fence about self-employment, pick up this book—it might just be the nudge you need to take the leap!