A window fell on my head and rearranged my entire life. It took a while to see it as a gift — but that's exactly what it turned out to be.

 

In October 2023, a freak accident at work—a massive window crashing down on my head—left me in rehabilitation for nine months. I was used to solving problems and leading teams in the fast-paced world of advertising. Suddenly, I was unable to work and unsure if I’d ever return to my old career. 

 

I needed something to keep my mind occupied, so I started taking real estate classes. At first, it was just a distraction, but as I studied, I realized I was genuinely interested. I made a deal with myself: I would get my real estate license by my 45th birthday—and I did. My life changed by 180 degrees that day, which seems to be a recurring theme in my life.

 

 I grew up in Hebron, Indiana, a small rural town where I started working at thirteen detasseling corn. I was a high achiever, but after high school, I felt lost. I began college in pre-med before switching to art school in Chicago. From there, I built a career in advertising, working my way up from assistant to Art Director and eventually Creative Director at top agencies, leading campaigns for brands like Aldi, TikTok and Purina. 

 

My goal was always to climb higher and prove myself. But over time, the work became less about creativity and design and more about management and stress. I began to wonder if I was losing touch with the reasons I had chosen that path in the first place.

 

 The accident forced me to slow down and reevaluate my priorities. I still wanted to be creative, but I also wanted to use my skills to help people directly and to be present for my son, Barrick, whom I adopted with my ex-husband in 2012.

 

Becoming a parent has been the most profound challenge and joy of my life. We had just ten days’ notice before Barrick came home, and everything changed overnight. At the time, I was traveling constantly for work. I wanted to be there for him—not just as a provider, but as a father who showed up. Real estate opened the door to that possibility.

 

The transition, however, was terrifying. I passed my licensing exam on my 45th birthday, and the very next day, I was laid off from advertising. Because of my severe neck injury and extended time away from work, I lost my clients, which meant I lost my funding.

 I jumped into real estate full-time, eventually joining a top firm in Chicago. My goal was to learn quickly, find my place, and build a new career from scratch. The challenges were constant—learning the business, finding clients, and managing the fear of starting over. But I leaned on my problem-solving abilities and adaptability. I joined a team for support and structure, and that determination paid off: I completed more transactions than any other REALTOR® in the Central Region of Chicago and was named Rookie of the Year by the Chicago Association of REALTORS®.

 

Outside of work, I recently joined a beach volleyball league, returning to a sport I loved in high school after nearly thirty years away. I enjoy art and architecture, music and unwinding with a good movie. I love being near the water, exploring museums, and spending time with Barrick. He’s almost 14 and has attended Chicago Public Schools his entire life. Recently, he earned a spot in one of the city’s highly competitive Academic Centers, putting him on an accelerated path toward high school. 

 

Looking back, my journey—from rural Indiana to Chicago, and from creative director to REALTOR®—has been anything but traditional. Life has taught me resilience, adaptability, and empathy. I’m excited for whatever comes next, and whatever that may be, my goal remains the same: to show up as the best version of myself.

 

What sets me apart from other REALTORS® is my background and the way I approach challenges. I spent over twenty years as a Creative Director in advertising, which taught me how to handle high-stress situations, pivot quickly, and solve problems creatively. I don’t think in a linear way—I’m always looking for new angles and strategies, and I bring that same creative mindset to real estate. 

 

Communication is another strength; I know how to listen, follow up, and treat people like family. My work ethic is strong—I’ve always been a high performer, willing to hustle and do what it takes to get things done. I also have a great network of trusted professionals—lawyers, lenders, inspectors—who I only recommend if I’d use them myself. I’m not just a “city agent”; I grew up in a rural community which helps me understand all different types of transactions and client needs.  Above all, I genuinely care about my clients and I’m always striving to give them the best of myself.

 

 Sincerely,

 

William Sherman