WHY I STARTED DHARMA
Welcome to my brain dump—a weekly space where I'll be sharing my deepest, darkest thoughts. Let’s get right to it… why did I decide to launch my own marketing agency and freelance business? There are a ton of ways to answer this, but here’s the gist: Dharma has been a dream of mine for a really long time. I was just too scared to take the leap. So, if you have a dream, rip off the bandaid and go for it. Life’s way too short (cringe, I know) to spend your days doing something that doesn’t truly fulfill you.
Honestly, it still amazes me that I’m living this reality as a business owner. There’s still a long road ahead and plenty to learn, but I wanted to kick off this first post by introducing myself and sharing a bit of my journey.
How did my passion for marketing start?
For the closest people in my life, you know how indecisive I can be. I explored more career paths and majors in college than I can count. But with marketing, it was love at first sight. It was a fall morning in 2019 when I took an intro marketing 101 class—and I truly did not look back. By the end of the semester, I changed my major to marketing and started seeking internships.
Before I knew it, I graduated in 2021 and pursued my master’s in digital marketing & analytics because I loved learning the theory and wanted a stronger grasp on the principles I still use today, both in my former 9-to-5 corporate career and with my freelance clients.
Why did I name my agency Dharma Digital?
Dharma represents integrity, purpose, and discipline—a guiding principle that informs our business decisions. To me, it means aligning with what is right and following an inner calling, even when the path isn’t always clear. It signifies our commitment to meaningful work for both our team and the businesses we serve. With Dharma Digital, we empower brands to uncover and share their unique stories, connect with their audiences, and succeed in today’s dynamic market.
What is my vision for Dharma Digital?
I may not have every detail mapped out, but my core goal is simple: to help businesses succeed. I see Dharma Digital as a trusted partner, one that adapts to your unique challenges and guides you through the ever-changing digital landscape. We prioritize building genuine relationships, creating custom strategies, and delivering impactful results. Ultimately, my vision is to create a space where innovation and creativity come together to help businesses grow and thrive.
Outside of marketing & business, what are my passions?
I have many passions, but travel is the one that comes to mind. In the past 3 years, I’ve traveled to Australia, Iceland, France, Italy, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Banff, Japan, South Korea, Maui, and Finland. What’s next on my list? Not sure yet, but I’ll keep y’all updated. Follow me on my personal instagram account if you are interested in following along on the travels @mili.patell!!
What does success mean to me?
Success, to me, means freedom—the ability to take an impromptu trip or call in sick when I need to, without feeling confined by rigid expectations. It’s about choosing work that resonates with my true self and having the flexibility to enjoy life's simple moments, like a spontaneous Wednesday pool day with my future kids. While I value the experiences and relationships I built in the corporate world, I longed for a lifestyle that offered a little more spontaneity and genuine personal fulfillment.
Who or what inspires me the most?
Easiest answer: my dad. He’s been an entrepreneur my entire life, and I’ve seen both the good and the ugly sides of it. With the freedom entrepreneurship offers comes the sacrifice, and I saw that firsthand. He’s the hardest worker I know, and if I can be even 5% of who he is, I can happily call myself successful. He’s truly an inspiration to everyone he meets, and I hope to be the kind of person and business owner he is. Shoutout to MR. PATEL!
I’m also inspired by the countless women absolutely crushing it in the marketing and creative industries (and in life). Whether they’re building businesses, leading teams, or creating groundbreaking content, they’re constantly raising the bar. I find so much motivation in seeing how they can make it all happen, and it reminds me to stay focused and keep chasing my own goals.
What can you do to help me? (Your girl needs it.)
If you or anyone in your network is starting a business, needs any type of marketing support, or just wants to learn more—please send them my way!
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
〰️
FOOD FOR THOUGHT 〰️
Recently, I read somewhere that it’s on you to get to where you want to be. Generic advice, I know, but it’s also incredibly impactful. If you’re waiting for someone else to push you forward, you’ll be waiting forever. The journey is yours to make, and while it’s never easy, it’s the only way you’ll get exactly where you want to go.
