Author: Lauren Lott

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heart and soul life lessons

A Year in Review: The Best of My Blog in 2023.

My Blog in 2023

Before the year ends, I thought it would be fitting to reflect on the best of my blog in 2023. This year has been full of unexpected turns and there has been a need for patience and deep trust. It has also been a year, unlike the last 5, where I can see a definite progression in my life.  

And so, friends, here are the top five blog posts that captured both your attention and the essence of 2023.

1. Allow and Align: The Power of Letting Go and Being in Flow

In a world that often urges us to control every aspect of our lives, “Allow and Align” emerged as a mantra for navigating the unpredictability of 2023.

 In June we were told that we had six weeks to find a new place. It was the 4th move in 5 years and at the time our state was in the middle of a rental crisis. Lots of renters, limited amount of rentals. (Not to mention the souring rental prices.)

For a number of weeks we had no idea where we were going to live. There was nothing available in our area and when a house did come up for rent it was unsuitable for raising three teens. This predicament caused  me great discomfort, disappointment and stress. I needed to find my peace. I needed to find a way to let go of outcomes and embrace the flow of life. 

And so, through reading, journaling and contemplation I discovered 5 things that helped me to manage my inner world and accept my circumstances, giving way to whatever came next. They include: Practising being present and fully engaged in the moment. Trusting the process. Following peace. Letting go of attachments. And retreating.

You can read about how these things transformed my perspective and helped me to not only cope with the situation, but enjoy it, here. 

2.Four Reasons You Are More Creative Than You Think

In this blog post, we explored the idea that creativity is not exclusive to artists or innovators. “Four Reasons You Are More Creative Than You Think” celebrates the inherent creativity within each of us and offers insights into nurturing and expressing it.

After posting this one, many of you told me that you no longer perceive yourself as uncreative. This feedback was a delight for me. If there is anything I would tell my 10-year-old self-it’s that your creativity is to be fully embraced. 

From reframing failures as opportunities to embracing curiosity, this post is all about unlocking your creative potential. It highlights the fact that we are always problem solving, connecting seemingly unrelated things, learning and perceiving the world from our own unique perspective. 

If you feel It’s time to recognize the ways in which you are already creative, start to tap into that potential and develop your skills even further, click here to read more. 

3. Healing Words: How Writing Poetry Can Help You Find Meaning

Words have the power to heal, and this post emphasises the therapeutic benefits of writing. It delves into the cathartic nature of putting emotions into words and unravels the healing potential embedded in the lines of a poem.

Personally, poetry has also been a valuable tool for healing. It has helped me to process my feelings, find meaning in my experiences, and move forward in a positive way. Unlike other forms of writing, such as journaling or free writing, poetry requires I pay close attention to language and form. This helps me to articulate my feelings or experiences in a clear and concise way. 

I wrote this one because I wanted to encourage readers to pick up a pen and explore the profound connection between writing and finding meaning in life. You don’t need to be good with words. Even a short piece, just a couple of sentences, can help bring clarity and relief for pain and distress.

To delve a little deeper and discover tips on how you can use writing poetry as a tool for finding meaning click here. 

4. Exploring the Struggle to Articulate Inner Turmoil

At times, I have struggled to articulate inner turmoil. For me, this became a barrier to understanding and growth. When words don’t work, we often find other ways to express our pain. If it’s creative, this can lead to positive outcomes, however, sometimes the inability to say how we feel can lead to destructive expressions that cause others and ourselves increased pain.

 “Exploring the Struggle to Articulate Inner Turmoil” confronts this challenge head-on, offering a raw and authentic look at the difficulties we can have in expressing complex emotions. In this post, I unpack the weight of what can not be said, the limitations of language, our need to explore expression and embrace the mystery and complexity of our experiences.

If you need a little insight on how to navigate unspeakable experiences, you’re not alone. Click here to read more about my struggle to articulate inner turmoil.

5. Creating Something New: Expectations vs. Reality

Creation often comes with a set of expectations. In “Creating Something New: Expectations vs. Reality” I address the balance that is needed between creative aspirations and the reality of the creative process. 

This blog post highlights the common pitfalls of creative expectations and provides tips for embracing the authentic, sometimes messy, journey of bringing ideas to life.

I have learnt that although my expectations are never met, and what I create hardly ever resembles exactly the idea I had of it in my head, creativity pays off.  I have also learnt that every new thing I put out into the world requires long-term vision, perseverance, and a willingness to let others make it their own. 

The purpose of this post is to illustrate that although bringing something new into the world is often a complex, emotionally taxing, non-linier collaboration, it is totally, completely, utterly worth it, and you should definitely, absolutely, one hundred percent do it! Read more here.

And so friends, that’s a wrap. Thank you for turning up. Thank you for giving my little corner of the internet a few of your highly prized moments this year. Thank you for engaging, commenting, messaging, and adding richness to my life. 

In 2024, I am focusing on the themes within my books, unpacking my poetry and hopefully leaving you with words that build you up and make you feel like the absolute miracle that you are.

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Creativity

Designing a 2024 Roadmap for your Creative Venture

creative roapmap

Hello friends, 

In this blog post, I’ll share my approach to crafting a roadmap for what I wish to create in the new year. But before I begin, let me explain what I mean when I use the words ‘creative roadmap’. 

A creative roadmap is a tool that evolves with the project, providing a structured yet flexible framework for creative individuals and teams. It helps to maintain focus and ensure that creative vision transforms into tangible and successful outcomes.

creative roapmap

But First….

Before I dive into future planning, I first take a moment to reflect on the past. What worked well in 2023? What were the challenges I faced? 

Reflecting on the year allows me to draw insights and lessons that can inform my 2024 roadmap. For example, I know procrastination is a real problem for me. I need my roadmap to have pit stops where I can address my fears and refocus. My roadmap contains short sprints and long pauses for learning and inspiration.

Looking back is also imperative for  identifying what I have achieved and the areas in which I have grown. It’s important I celebrate my victories, big and small. 

This not only helps me to understand my strengths and weaknesses but also acts as a guide for the coming year. For example, I know that I was able to learn the basics of InDesign, therefore I can plan to tackle other design technologies that may seem daunting. 

Defining My Creative Vision for 2024

I begin my roadmap by defining a clear and compelling creative vision for 2024. What do I aim to achieve?  And you, what do you aim to achieve? Whether it’s completing a novel, launching a product line, or showcasing your artwork in a gallery, articulating your creative purpose with clarity is key. ‘Write it down, make it plain’.

Next, break it down into goals.  This usually looks like a daily and weekly aim. 

Practical Tips for Crafting Your Roadmap

For me, dividing things into smaller milestones is the only way I can get moving.  For example, I have to literally write the words ‘Write a poem’ in my planner each day in order to come up with a collection of 100-200 poems. If it is not written down, I find it easy to get distracted (remember, procrastination is my problem).

Consistency is Key.  Repetition helps to solidify habits, making it more likely that I will stick to my roadmap. Whether it’s daily, weekly, or monthly, find a frequency that works for you and stick to it. 

In staying that, I feel a tad hypocritical. I know life happens. And if you were to see how my routine is interrupted constantly you would also see how being consistent is a constant challenge. 

Life’s unpredictable nature means that interruptions are inevitable, and my routine often faces unexpected turns. However, the aim is to be as consistent as possible rather than perfectly consistent.

Navigating the Terrain

While a roadmap provides structure, If I’m honest, ideas often come in moments of spontaneity. Unplanned instances have the power to breathe life into a plan, infusing it with fresh perspectives and solutions.

So, while structure is invaluable, I like to leave room for the unknown. This looks like an unscheduled time to follow the muse, or at least my own curiosity.

Learn as you go

As I navigate my roadmap, I tell myself that it’s ok to learn as I go, in fact, it’s necessary.  Embracing this mindset acknowledges the nature of the journey, understanding that growth is an integral component of progress. 

The roadmap isn’t rigid but rather a flexible guide that comes to life alongside my learning curve.

In our world, things change quickly. The introduction of new technologies is a prime example of the need for continuous learning. New tools and innovations are constantly being released, and staying relevant often means acquiring new skills on the fly. 

Coming to terms with the fact that the roadmap might need detours allows for a more agile and forward-thinking approach.

Designing a roadmap for your creative venture in 2024 doesn’t have to be complicated. As you create it, remember it is a living document—an evolving guide that propels you toward your creative aspirations. 

Know this. You are well-equipped to design a roadmap that not only leads you to dreams fulfilled but also allows your creativity to flourish.

For more thoughts on creativity, you may also like ‘creating something new: expectations v’s reality’ and ‘4 reasons why you are more creative than you think you are‘.

Categories
heart and soul life lessons

The Healing Power of Humility: Why Being Broken Can Be a Blessing

The healing power of humility

In a society that often glorifies strength and success, the concept of embracing brokenness and humility may seem counterintuitive. However, there is a profound healing power in humbling experiences that can transform our lives for the better. Rather than seeing brokenness as a bad thing, we can view it as a blessing—a pathway to self-discovery, growth, and healing. 

Embracing Vulnerability 

When we are broken, either by the pain we cause or the pain projected on us by others,  we become vulnerable, and vulnerability opens the door to profound personal growth. Admitting our flaws and acknowledging our limitations allows us to connect with others on a deeper level. By embracing vulnerability, we create authentic and meaningful connections that are built on empathy, compassion, and understanding. This genuine connection with others fosters a sense of belonging and provides a fertile ground for healing.

Letting Go of Ego 

Being broken strips away our pride and ego, revealing our true selves beneath the facade. Humility compels us to let go of our attachment to success, recognition, and external validation. In the absence of ego, we can focus on inner transformation and self-improvement. By releasing the need to control or manipulate outcomes, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and allow the healing process to unfold naturally.

Cultivating Empathy

When we experience brokenness, we develop a deeper sense of empathy and compassion towards others who are suffering. Our own pain becomes a bridge that connects us to the pain of others, enabling us to provide genuine support and understanding. Through this newfound empathy, we learn the importance of kindness, forgiveness, and acceptance. In turn, the act of extending compassion to others contributes to our own healing, creating a positive feedback loop of growth and resilience.

Seeking Help and Support 

Being broken teaches us the value of seeking help and support from others. We come to realize that we cannot navigate life’s challenges alone, and reaching out for assistance is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength and self-awareness. Humility enables us to recognize that we can learn from the wisdom and experiences of others, and their support becomes a vital component of our healing journey.

Rediscovering Inner Strength

In the process of being broken, we often unearth a wellspring of inner strength that we never knew existed. Adversity has a way of revealing our resilience, determination, and capacity for growth. By embracing humility, we tap into our inner resources and discover the courage to rebuild our lives. We emerge from brokenness with a renewed sense of purpose, empowered by the knowledge that we have overcome challenges and can face future obstacles with resilience and grace.

Being broken is not a permanent state of despair; rather, it can be a transformative experience. Yes, the process can take us to an intensely painful place, but we must recognise that that same process does not destroy us, in fact, it builds us. So, let us view brokenness as a blessing— a bleeding, beaten up, soul battered blessing that beautifies us the way nothing else can.

For poetry that walks through the process of being broken, from the moment your flame is snatched right through to when grief fold into gratfulness, take a look at ‘The Remains of Burning‘ available from bookstores worldwide.

poetry book

 

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Books heart and soul

Words for the Soul: Non-fiction Books that Are a Source of Wisdom and Inspiration.

inspirational non-fiction book

If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for a good book, and when I say a ‘good book’ I mean inspirational non-fiction. These gems serve as beacons of knowledge, showcasing the transformative journeys of remarkable individuals and unveiling the profound insights they have gained along the way.  They possess the unique ability to instill in us a profound sense of motivation and hope.

When I read, I not only want to be entertained but transformed. I want my soul to be nourished, my mind to be stimulated and my spirit to lift. I know that’s a pretty big ask from just some words on paper, but I have had many experiences where books have left me feeling winged.

In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, slowing down to read intentionally instead of taking in what scrolling serves up has become an uneasy, yet essential pursuit. Within the realm of inspirational nonfiction, I embark on a journey that invites me to align with meaning and service, empowering me to create a life of fulfillment and impact. 

Discovering Your Unique Path: Unleashing Your Gifts and Passions

Inspirational non-fiction books that focus on purposeful living guide us to discover our unique gifts, passions, and talents. They encourage us to dive deep within ourselves, exploring our authentic desires and uncovering the essence of who we truly are.

By embracing our individuality and leveraging our unique talents, we step onto a path that resonates deeply with our souls and allows us to make a meaningful contribution. If that sounds good to you, I recommend:

Aligning with Meaning: Clarifying Values and Priorities

Lucily, when I was young, I learnt that living a purposeful life requires me to align my actions with my core values and priorities. Personally, I have 3 core values.

Creativity – there just has to be space in my life to explore my imagination and ingest the innovation of others.

Authenticity – I can’t fake it. Oh yes, I’ve tried, but there is something that makes me feel violated within when I keep truth hidden. I want the real stuff, even if it’s ugly.

Freedom – I believe in the inherent right of individuals to express themselves, make choices, and pursue their aspirations without undue constraints. It’s important to me that I be free to follow my heart.

Inspirational non-fiction books offer practical tools and thought-provoking exercises to help us clarify our core beliefs, identify what truly matters to us, and create a value-based roadmap for our lives.  Some books that have helped me do this are:

  • “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl
  • “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
  • Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead” 
  • “The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself” by Michael A. Singer
  • The Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant to Do” by Jeff Goins

Embracing Service: Making a Positive Impact in the World

I believe by embracing acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity, we tap into the joy of service and create a ripple effect that extends far beyond our individual lives.

However, to do this, I need constant encouragement. Inspirational non-fiction helps me to expand my vision beyond myself and recognise that my purpose is intimately connected to the well-being of others.  Books that you could read to help you embrace service include:

  • “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein
  • “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
  • “Quiet Strength: The Principles, Practices, and Priorities of a Winning Life” by Tony Dungy
  • “Educated: A Memoir” by Tara Westover
  • “Becoming” by Michelle Obama

Living in Alignment: Embracing Authenticity and Growth

Alignment starts with being honest about where we are. We must acknowledge the reality of things to heal, grow and change.

By nurturing our own growth, we not only position ourselves to live purposely but also inspire others to embark on their own authentic path. I recommend these books to help you embrace authenticity and growth include:

  • “What I Know for Sure” by Oprah Winfrey is a collection of insightful reflections and life lessons
  • “Rising Strong: How the Ability to Reset Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead” by Brené Brown: 
  • “The Book of Awakening: Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have” by Mark Nepo:
  • “Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person” by Shonda Rhimes
  • “The Path Made Clear: Discovering Your Life’s Direction and Purpose” by Oprah Winfrey

When I write poetry, I strive for it to serve as a wellspring of wisdom and inspiration. I want to capture the essence of the human experience by delving into universal themes of love, resilience, self-discovery, and personal growth. I seek to uplift spirits, ignite hope, and provide solace during challenging times. 

Along with the lists of books in this blog post, I hope my books can be a ‘well’ of sorts, quenching your thirst for wisdom and inspiration. For a closer look click here. 

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Journaling Therapeutic Writing Prompts

Exploring the Struggle to Articulate Inner Turmoil.

Inner Turmoil

As hard as it is to admit it, sometimes words fail. 

The inability to effectively communicate the depth of emotion we feel or truly recount what we have been through with its layers of complexity and multiple subplots can be disheartening. 

How do we speak of the death of a loved one, the journey of fighting cancer, or the pain of abuse? We find ourselves on an ineffable path, grappling with the challenge of expressing our inner turmoil. 

The Weight of what cannot be said: 

Unspoken experiences can  weigh upon our hearts and minds. It’s not that we lack the desire to talk (although at times, talking may be undesirable), but rather the challenge of  expressing the inner turmoil we face. Speaking about our struggles can sometimes heighten stress, anxiety, and a feeling of isolation. There is a fear of being misunderstood, particularly when we ourselves are unsure of how we feel. 

The Limitations of Language: 

Often what we have been through defies easy categorization in which words can encapsulate. The nuanced and intricate nature of our internal struggles hinder effective communication. Words prove to be too weak, shallow and inexact. 

For me, experiencing this conundrum (not having the words) was extremely perplexing. Words are boxes, with neat bows. Words are anchors and ladders and doors. Without them there is no way to organise my thoughts, no way to get from a to b, no way to release the myriad of things that crowd my mind. 

Consequently, I developed an intense thirst for them—an insatiable desire for poetry, analogy, and metaphor. I wanted to unearth a means of expressing the seemingly inexpressible.

Exploring Expression: 

Led by my inner turmoil I took up pen and paper like my life depended on it (because actually to me it felt  like it did.) Instead of trying to find the right words (because I came to the conclusion that it was in fact impossible) I settled for first noting down the story as I experienced it. I then played with different points of view. I asked myself, ‘how would someone who understood exactly what I experienced and how I felt about it tell the story?’

This practice allowed me to gather the intricate details—those seemingly insignificant wounds that intertwined with larger pains—that hindered my self-expression. Throughout several years, I filled numerous pages, slowly uncovering the sources of my anguish and uncovering the words that came closest to conveying my unique journey.

This practice, although sometimes disordered and chaotic, is called restorative writing or journal therapy. 

Embracing the Mystery and Complexity:

Despite finding therapeutic relief through journaling, there are certain facets of my distress that elude precise articulation, and they may continue to do so indefinitely. This

This is both a humbling and liberating realisation that enables me to accept the limitations of language, while simultaneously granting me the freedom to embrace the  indescribable nature of my experiences.

Mystery is often overlooked. However it  allows us to cultivate a humble recognition of our limited knowledge, and to remain open to the vast possibilities that lie beyond what we understand.  It is through embracing mystery that I am able to release myself from the unending quest of finding the right words.

If you can relate to the struggle of being unable to articulate inner turmoil, know you’re not alone. Acknowledging the weight of unspoken emotions and the limitations of language is a good place to start. 

After that, you may find it helpful to bravely pick up a pen and write your own story over and over until you feel some kind of release and an ability to embrace the mystery and complexity of what you are experiencing. 

For those who feel they may benefit from some assistance, a writing tool to help process pain and loss, you can grab ‘The Remains of Burning Therapeutic Journal’ here. It includes a series of reflective writing prompts to help readers navigate suffering. The prompts within firstly focus on expressing painful emotion (finding the words) and slowly nudge the reader towards new hope.

Well wishes to you my friend as you go where no one has gone before – into the depths of who you are.

Poetry Book
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heart and soul Poetry

How poetry can help us cope with Life’s Challenges: Reflections on World Poetry Day.

World Poetry Day

It’s no secret, I love poetry.

It  is  an art form that captures the beauty of language, but it is also a powerful tool that has  helped me cope with life’s challenges. In honor of World Poetry Day, I’d love to share with you how I have used poetry to navigate difficult times.

When I face challenging situations, I can sometimes find it hard to articulate how I feel. Poetry gives me the freedom to express myself  in a way that is both personal and universal. Through poetry, I explore my emotions, fears, and loves in a way that helps me  process and make sense of them.

For example, in her poem “Still I Rise,” Maya Angelou writes about overcoming adversity and discrimination. This poem inspires me to keep going and reminds me of the strength within me. 

 "You may shoot me with your words, / You may cut me with your eyes, / You may kill me with your hatefulness, / But still, like air, I'll rise."

Secondly, poetry provides me with a sense of comfort.  When I feel overwhelmed by my circumstances, reading or writing poetry helps me to  find a sense of calm. Poetry has a way of connecting me to something greater than myself.

In his poem “The Guest House,” the 13th-century Persian poet Rumi (one of my absolute fav’s) writes about the importance of embracing all emotions, both positive and negative: HIs poem reminds me that all emotion, everything I feel is part of the human experience I am having here on earth and that I should not judge or shame myself for feeling what I do. It encourages me to take every circumstance, whatever comes across my path and see it as a teacher. 

"This being human is a guest house. / Every morning a new arrival. / A joy, a depression, a meanness, / some momentary awareness comes / as an unexpected visitor."

Poetry also  helps me find meaning and purpose in my life. It can be hard to find a sense of meaning or purpose in difficult times. Poetry connects me to the beauty and value of life that can still be found during painful seasons. 

In his poem “The Road Not Taken,” Robert Frost writes about the importance of making our own choices and forging our own paths in life. His words remind me I can choose how I deal with what I am going through. Though things may not always go the way I want them too, still, I possess the power to make decisions that hold me back, keep me stuck or move my life forward. 

 "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— / I took the one less traveled by, / And that has made all the difference."

Poetry assists me to connect with others who are going through similar challenges. When I read or write poetry, I become part of a larger community of people who share the same  experiences and emotions. Through poetry, I can find a sense of belonging and feel seen and understood.

free poetry book
Free Chapbook
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heart and soul

Allow and Align: The power of letting go and being in flow.

poetry newsletter

Allow

Allow means to give yourself permission to be in the present moment without resistance or judgment. It means letting go of the need to control and surrendering to what is. Allowing is about accepting things as they are, rather than fighting against them.

When we allow, we create space for new possibilities to arise. We open ourselves up to new experiences, new people, and new ways of thinking. We become more flexible and adaptable and find a sense of quiet strength.

Align

Alignment is about connecting with the flow of life. When we are in alignment our inner world lines up with our current reality. Instead of resisting change, we embrace it. Instead of wishing and hoping for what we do not have, we treasure what we already hold. When we are aligned, we trust that we are on the right path even if it is uncomfortable or unexpected. 

Allow and Align

It is impossible to find flow if we  hold on to narratives that oppose our current circumstances.  For example, I have to let go of the four year old version of my daughter in order to have a relationship with her now as a sixteen year old. I can not connect with her now if I do not first let go of how I used to relate to her. 

And so, it is with everything. We must let go of what is not so we can take hold of what is. Simple right? Well, of course not. Letting go can be excruciating. Finding flow is not as free and easy as it sounds. Here are a few tips on how we can practice allowing and aligning in our daily lives. 

  1. Practice being present and fully engaged in the moment.

It is easy to get caught up in our thoughts or worries. Being aware of what is happening around us and within us can help us to let go of the need to manage everything. It is my belief that being where we are, attune to all the small wonders around us can help us to value the present moment and find alignment.

2. Trust the process. 

Trust that everything will be ok, even if it doesn’t seem that way in the moment. Trust in the nature and power of love. Sounds ‘woo woo’ right? Well my friends, who cares how it sounds if it works. Trusting can help you to let go of resistance and surrender to what is.

3. Follow peace.

It’s important to think about the kinds of thoughts we think. Do they foster a sense of inner calm? Letting go and finding flow can be difficult but these two actions always result in peace within. If you are unsure of which way to go or how you can find flow, ask yourself, ‘What brings me peace.’

4. Let go of attachments. 

It is easy to mistake connections for attachments. Attachments are things that we cling to, even when they no longer serve us. They can be material possessions, relationships, or even beliefs. 

Finish these sentences in relation to your inner wellbeing, ‘I will never stop ….”, “I will always be….”, “I need……”. If any of your answers are joined to something or someone that is outside of yourself (excluding a higher power) you may have a few attachments that are preventing you from finding alignment.

Once you have recognized your attachments, you can focus on cultivating a mindset that prioritizes placing these things in a healthy position in your life. 

5. Retreat.

We need new kinds of spaces, ones we inhabit because something significant occurs when people convene to delve deeper. We need places to pause, unlearn and return to ourselves so that we can heal and, in turn, help to heal the world.

Allow and Align is a restorative writing experience. Retreat for the day to a gorgeous Noravile beachfront property (Just 10 mins to M1 Motorway, 40 mins to Wahroonga) to slow down and learn how to let go and align with your life through the power of writing.

Through a series of guided writing exercises, creative prompts, and group discussions, you’ll tap into your intuition and gain insight into your personal journey. Together, with other participants you’ll discover keys to letting go of the past and moving forward in life.

Each ticket includes morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, beverages, writing journal, pen and workbook. Join us for a day of self-discovery, inspiration and renewal. To book your spot TryBooking Australia

Allow and Align Restorative Writing Day Retreat.
Categories
heart and soul Poetry

Healing words: How writing poetry can help you find meaning.

writing poetry

Writing poetry has long been recognized as a powerful tool for self-expression, creativity, and communication. However, for me, poetry has also been a valuable tool for healing. It has helped me to process my feelings, find meaning in my experiences, and move forward in a positive way.

One thing I love about writing poetry is that it allows me to express my feelings in a way that is both creative and structured. Unlike other forms of writing, such as journaling or free writing, poetry requires I pay close attention to language and form. This helps me to articulate my feelings or experiences in a clear and concise way. By working within the constraints of poetic form, I can distill complex thoughts and emotions into a few powerful words or images rather than just dumping everything onto the page.

Poetry also allows me to explore difficult or painful topics in a safe and controlled way. When I write poetry, I have the freedom to create a world that is entirely my own, and to explore the deepest recesses of my heart and mind. This can be especially helpful when dealing with trauma, grief, or other forms of emotional pain. 

Writing poetry can serve as a powerful tool to help discover hidden truths and insights in experiences. Personally, during a challenging life transition, I found solace and the silver lining through poetry. Although it did not offer an immediate solution, the process of writing poetry guided me towards recognizing the significance of the journey.

‘Poetry is a life-cherishing force. For poems are not words, after all, but fires for the cold, ropes let down to the lost, something as necessary as bread in the pockets of the hungry.’

Mary Oliver
Writing poetry

Here are my tips on how you can use writing poetry as a tool for finding meaning.

  1. Capture how you feel.

Start by jotting down a few words or phrases that capture how you’re feeling and build from there.

2. Concentrate on word choice.

Sometimes it can take a while to find the words that express exactly what we are going through, but the search is worth it. There is something so powerful, so liberating, about finding language that validates our experiences.

3. Write regularly. 

Like any form of writing, poetry takes practice. Set aside a few minutes each day to write, even if it’s just a few lines. One of my favourite forms of poetry is micro-poetry. It consists of only a few lines or even just one single line and communicates a range of themes in a concise way. You may find that writing one line has more impact than writing sixteen lines.

4. Don’t judge yourself or what you write. 

Sometimes we can feel ashamed of the emotions we feel. Sure, it is hard to admit we are jealous or that we have hatred in our heart, but remember, the page is for healing and finding meaning, not convicting ourselves. It’s ok if you don’t like what you have written or the emotions you feel. They are simply a reflection of what you are experiencing in that moment, not a summary of who you are or what you can do. 

5. Look deeper.

It is my conviction that the most life changing words you will ever read are your own. This is because our own words act as a mirror showing us what we truly believe. Read your own work, learn from it, look deeper and ask yourself why of all the poems you could have written is this what you were compelled to write.

Poetry Books
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heart and soul life lessons

Discovering your power: 4 ways to overcome feeling cornered.

feeling cornered

My guess is that you’re here because you’re hurting. You may have come across the title of this blog and thought to yourself, “Yes, that resonates with me. I’m struggling with feeling powerless to rectify an unjust situation.”

Perhaps someone has taken something from you and is refusing to return it, or maybe you were promised something that was never fulfilled, leaving you feeling manipulated.  Maybe you have been bullied, isolated, pushed out, cut off by people you were loyal to. 

When we find ourselves backed into a corner, we feel like we’re under attack, trapped, and being subjected to abusive treatment. We search for a means of escape, a way to claim what is rightfully ours, and a method to overpower those who are leveraging their power against us.

We push back, but nothing changes. We attempt to appeal to people’s humanity through kind words, but to no avail. Despite our best efforts, the circumstances persist, and we have no option but to accept that hearts turn, promises break and life is sometimes unfair.

At times like these it’s important to know although we feel powerless, we are not. Sure, we may not be able to change the situation, but we still have power. We have the power of agency, the power of resilience, the power of community, and the power of hope. 

feeling cornered

The Power of Agency

We have agency. We have the ability to make choices and take actions that can shape our lives and the lives of those around us. Even in situations where we feel trapped or restricted, we still have the power to choose how we respond to our circumstances. We have power over our mind and can decide what thoughts we allow to govern our emotions. 

It’s easy to become fixated on a single opportunity that’s unavailable to us when a door has been closed, and we’re unable to attain what we desire. This fixation can prevent us from recognizing the abundance of other possibilities available to us. We can choose to approach a challenge with a growth mindset, seeking out opportunities for learning and growth. 

The Power of Resilience

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from difficult experiences and to adapt to change. When we face setbacks or obstacles, we can draw on our resilience to keep moving forward, to keep trying, and to keep believing that things will improve.

Building resilience requires developing coping skills, learning from past experiences, and building a strong support system. It is a key factor in achieving personal and professional success, as it allows individuals to adapt and thrive in the face of change and uncertainty.

The Power of Community

As social beings, our well-being is enhanced by having meaningful connections with others. In times of distress, we often seek out allies to advocate for us. However, it can be deeply distressing when those we rely on to speak up for us remain silent, leaving us feeling unsupported and mistreated.

Experiencing such a situation can lead to feelings of mistrust and a desire to withdraw from social interactions. However, it’s crucial to recognize that with billions of people on this planet, there’s a high likelihood of finding someone who can empathize and offer support if given the chance.

Whether it’s through our family, friends, or broader social networks, we can draw on the strength of community to help us overcome challenges.

The Power of Hope

Hope helps us to envision a better future. Even in the darkest of times, hope can sustain us and motivate us.  When we hold onto hope, we open ourselves up to possibilities and opportunities that we may not have otherwise considered.

Hope says, ‘I know you’re hurting, I know this situation is unfair, though there seems to be no way you will come through this.’

*Sometimes we are pushed into corners so we will learn to break down walls.
-a pathway no-one knew was there.

*poem by Lauren Lott from ‘The Remains of Burning.‘

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Creativity life lessons

Creating something new: expectations vs reality.

creating something new

Creating something new can be an exciting and daunting task.  The idea of bringing something unique and innovative to the world is often filled with expectations of success and satisfaction. However, the reality of creating something new can be vastly different from what we envision. 

Nothing I have ever created has turned out exactly like I planned. Whether it be a book, journal, blog post or writing retreat, all emerge into the world unlike how they start in my head. Not only does the end result look different, but the process, how they form and develop, always takes an unexpected route. Let me elaborate by sharing with you an expectation followed by the reality of what really went down. 

creating something new.

Expectation: Creating something new is straightforward.

Reality: Creating something new is often complex and  requires time, education, and resources. 

For me, every journey to creation is filled with setbacks, failures, and uncertainties. Initial ideas change and evolve over time. I have to be willing to experiment, learn from mistakes, adapt to new information and risk appearing like an absolute fool.

Expectation: Creating something new will result in immediate success and recognition.

Reality: Creating something new does not guarantee success or recognition. 

Every time I create something new, the response to it is gradual. I have learnt that success is determined by timing, market demand, competition, and luck. Every new thing I put out into the world requires me to have a long-term vision, perseverance, and a willingness to let others make it their own. 

Expectation: Creating something new will bring immense satisfaction and fulfillment.

Reality: Creating new things can be emotionally taxing and challenging. It’s common for creators to experience self-doubt, anxiety, and stress during the process of bringing their creation to life. 

During the creation process, I regularly feel pressure to meet personal expectations and external standards. I need to find a balance between passion and detachment, so I can passionately invest in what I am creating but not be defined by it. I experience creative block, crippling procrastination, dissatisfaction and frustration in my work. 

Expectation: Creating something new is a solo endeavor.

Reality: Creating something new often requires collaboration and support from others. 

Along the way I always seek feedback, advice, and guidance from trusted sources. I need to establish small teams with diverse perspectives, skills, and resources. Every book needs an editor, every journal needs cover design, every retreat needs supporters to help gather and serve those who attend, every blog post needs to be researched by reading the words of experts.  In reality, nothing I have created would be here without others. 

Expectation: Creating something new is a linear process.

Reality: Creating something new is a nonlinear and dynamic process. 

There are twists and there are turns. I navigate uncertainty and ambiguity. I pivot, adjust my approach and continually tell myself ‘Be flexible Loz, flow with it’ until my ridged little fingers learnt to let go and trust.  

And so it is with anyone who creates something new. It is a complex, emotionally taxing, non-linier collaboration. But boy oh boy is it worth it!