Tag: creativity

creativity

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heart and soul

6 Inspiring Quotes from Women Who Inspire Me

inspiring quotes

Today, I want to share a few inspiring quotes that have truly touched me over the past month. Each one is from a woman whose words have lifted me during moments of ambiguity: Brianna Wiest, Morgan Harper Nichols, Amy McGee, Maggie Smith, Orna Ross, and Cleo Wade. These remarkable women bring messages of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of creativity. I hope their words resonate with you as deeply as they have with me.

“Instead of being held by what haunts you, be pulled by what calls you.” 

— Brianna Wiest  

Brianna Wiest’s writing encourages me to embrace life with the courage to create, to quiet the chatter, and to connect deeply with what truly compels. In her book ‘Ceremony’, this line stirred something within.

I love the thought of being ‘pulled,’ compelled toward something meaningful and magnetic. This inspiring quote reminds me to shift from dwelling on disappointments, to discovering new delights and ask questions I hadn’t considered before.

“Tell the story of the mountain you climbed. Your words could become a page in someone else’s survival guide.”

— Morgan Harper Nichols  

Morgan’s words carry a comforting warmth, like a friend gently reminding me of my strength. In her book ‘All Along You Were Blooming’, she captures the power of storytelling as a shared source of healing—not only for ourselves, but also for those who might follow.

After reading this line, I felt inspired to seek out stories, to listen to new voices, and to uncover words that resonate with my own experiences. This led me to healing words—the very words I needed to hear.

“Be brave enough to keep growing.” 

— Amy McNee  

When I first came across Amy McNee on Instagram, I dismissed her as a try-hard, even saying to myself, “Oh, that’s so cringe.” But today, Amy stands as a creative powerhouse, inspiring people across the world.

Her life, shared openly on social media, has become a lighthouse for me—especially on days when I have to face my own awful art. She’s taught me that there’s no shame in being seen trying and that creating purely for the love of it is enough.

This simple quote captures so much of what Amy McNee is about. As a creative coach and a true embodiment of courage, Amy’s unwavering self-belief has been a beacon of inspiration for me.

At times, I lose sight of the fact that creativity isn’t about producing something perfect but about nurturing growth. Amy has helped me understand that it’s okay to create “cringy” art—it’s the only way to eventually create something beautiful.  

“Accept that you are a work in progress, both a revision and a draft: you are better and more complete than earlier versions of yourself, but you also have work to do.” 

— Maggie Smith  

Maggie Smith’s words serve as a powerful reminder that there is beauty in being a “work in progress.” Her quote encouraged me to not see my flaws as failures.  In ‘Keep Moving’, she shares that we don’t need to have everything figured out to move forward; growth is ongoing.

Each new version of ourselves builds on the last, moving us closer to who we’re becoming. This inspiring quote helped me to embrace transformation with patience and purpose.

“It’s good to have an end in mind but in the end what counts is how you travel.” 

— Orna Ross  

This quote by Orna reminded me that creativity is a way to care; it should be a pathway to health rather than a source of stress. For me, creativity is more than just making things; it’s about how I organise my life, the way I give back, and the intention behind each contribution. 

When I approach it mindfully, creativity becomes a wellspring of well-being, bringing balance, joy, and calm. This shift transforms creating into a source of strength and resilience. I find that the process itself grounds me, helping me stay present and connected to what matters. It shows me that creativity isn’t just about what we produce—how we travel shapes us, making each step just as fulfilling as the final outcome.

“It was time, so I said yes. I said yes to living, I said yes to loving, I said yes to being… myself, illuminated and unafraid.”  

— Cleo Wade  

Cleo Wade’s words inspire me to approach each moment with a little more courage and a lot more acceptance. Reading this, I felt encouraged to bring more of myself into everyday life, to embrace both new experiences and everyday moments without hesitation. 

Wade’s words makes me realise that living fully doesn’t mean waiting for perfect conditions; it means opening myself to life as I am, finding joy in simply showing up, and bringing all of myself—unafraid.

Each of these inspiring quotes holds wisdom that encourages us to be brave, creative, and mindful. I hope these voices speak to you and help you feel inspired today. As we go forward, let’s keep the words that inspire us close, allowing them to guide us toward growth. I’d love for you to share the quotes that inspire you with me.

Categories
heart and soul

Unlocking Your True Brightness: Steps to Overcome Self-Doubt.

self doubt

We all experience times of uncertainty—those moments when self-doubt shadows our confidence and leads us to question our capabilities, value, or decisions. I’ve experienced paralyzing self doubt, and understand the weight it can carry. 

However, I firmly believe that within each of us is an inherent brilliance, ready to emerge even during periods of self-doubt. Here are some strategies that have aided me in pushing past these doubts to fully embrace who I am. I hope you find them equally empowering.

Acknowledge Your Self-Doubt

First things first, let’s be real about our self-doubt. It’s okay to admit when you’re feeling insecure or unsure. I’ve learned that pushing these feelings away only makes them stronger. Instead, try to name your self-doubt when it shows up. Say to yourself, “I’m feeling unsure right now,” and acknowledge that it’s a normal part of being human. Just naming it can make it feel less powerful.

I also suggest writing those exact words down, as this is a way of spotlighting the emotion. Spotlighting is when we force ourselves to look directly at what we’re feeling, providing a clearer view and understanding of our emotions. This practice can demystify overwhelming feelings and aid in processing them more effectively.

Reframe Negative Thoughts

Self-doubt often comes from negative thoughts that loop in our minds—those “I’m not good enough” or “I’ll never be able to do this” thoughts. I’ve found it helpful to gently challenge these thoughts. 

Ask yourself: Is this really true? What evidence do I have that proves this thought wrong? Often, you’ll find that the doubt isn’t based on facts but on fear. Reframing these thoughts into more positive or neutral ones can make a huge difference in how you feel.

Celebrate Small Wins

When self-doubt is running high, it’s easy to overlook our achievements. Start by celebrating the small wins, no matter how tiny they might seem. Did you step out of your comfort zone today? Did you complete a task you’ve been dreading? Give yourself credit for these moments. I’ve found that acknowledging even the smallest successes builds confidence over time and slowly pushes self-doubt to the side. 

Just as one might compile a gratitude list to foster a sense of thankfulness, consider creating a list of small wins for five consecutive days, emphasising every achievement, no matter how small. This practice helps to build a positive mindset by recognising and celebrating each step forward.

Surround Yourself with Support

Self-doubt thrives in isolation. When I feel unsure of myself, reaching out to supportive friends, family, or mentors makes a world of difference. Find those people who believe in you and lift you up. Sometimes, just talking about what you’re feeling with someone who understands can make that self-doubt shrink to a manageable size.

If you don’t have anyone in your life who fits this description, consider seeking a mentor from afar. There are many individuals whose coaching and mentoring might be accessible to you through their books, online courses, or videos, even if you never meet them in person. When you engage with their content, tell yourself it was written just for you.

Practice Self-Compassion

This one has been a game-changer for me. Instead of beating myself up for feeling self-doubt, I’ve started practicing self-compassion. Journaling is a fantastic tool to do this. This act of self-expression allows you to process feelings of inadequacy or failure gently, acknowledging them without self-criticism. 

A journaling exercise to promote self-compassion involves the prompt, “What I need to hear right now is…” This simple start helps you articulate the supportive words and affirmations you need, allowing you to offer yourself kindness and reassurance directly. This practice strengthens self-compassion by letting you be both the giver and receiver of encouragement.

Take Action, Even When It Feels Scary

Self-doubt often wants to keep us stuck, but I’ve found that taking small, consistent actions can help break its grip. It might feel scary to take that first step, but action breeds confidence. Start with something manageable, and slowly build up from there. The more you act despite your doubts, the more you’ll prove to yourself that you are capable and strong.

My word for 2024 is “consistency.” I gave myself one task: to stay consistent in what I wanted to create. Whenever I feel self-doubt, remembering this task helps me to keep going. This focus on consistency has been key in making steady progress toward my goals.

Remember Your Brightness

Finally, always remember that your true brightness is already within you. It doesn’t disappear just because self-doubt shows up. When I remind myself of this, I feel a little lighter, a little braver. You have unique gifts, talents, and qualities that make you shine. Trust in that, and know that even on your toughest days, your light is still there.

My new book, “Looking for Brightness,” explores the theme of discovering the light within ourselves. If you’re experiencing self-doubt, the words in “Looking for Brightness” might be just what you need.

if you're looking for brightness
Categories
Books Creativity Publishing

 AI Interviews Me About My New Book ‘If You’re Looking for Brightness’

If you're looking for brightness

Just for fun, I decided to let artificial intelligence pose questions to me about my new book, ‘If You’re Looking for Brightness.’  Here are the questions AI asked (written in bold) and my personal responses:

 ‘If You’re Looking for Brightness’ explores the deeply resonant theme of  finding light. What inspired you to write this collection, and how does the title reflect the themes within your book?”

I think one of the major lessons I’ve learnt over the last five years is that you can find light almost anywhere. When I say light I mean more than just brightness. I mean truth. I mean clarity. 

I’ve experienced deep confusion, cognitive dissonance actually, which means I’ve suffered mental discomfort and tension through holding two or more opposing beliefs. For me, this uncertainty was sparked by conflicting ideas about trust. What was being said and what was being shown were inconsistent.

The book’s title is a call to all those who need to find the light in their experience. In it I share the four places where light seems to radiate the most, in love, in pain, in living things and within my own heart. 

Are there any poems that hold special significance to you?”

Every piece has a backstory. But if I had to choose one off the top of my head it would be ‘De- (a prefix meaning intensive) Light’. It’s a piece about noting the sublime experiences in our lives and using good memories to illuminate present darkness. Let me share it with you.

‘De- (a prefix meaning intensive) Light’

i.

Love likes to catch us off guard.

ii.

At the age of thirty-something I found myself
singing to a crowd under a mock-up trojan horse
on the edge of the Dardanelles Strait in Turkey.
Ever since that day, I keep asking myself,
‘Did that really happen?’

iii.

I was once crowned
the ‘Queen of Love and Beauty’.
It happened when an actor,
dressed as a knight,
picked me from an arena of contenders
one surreal Saturday at Medieval Times.

iv.

In my teens I wrote to an organisation.
They put my note in their newsletter.
In those days nobody needed permission.
When I received my copy,
I read it continuously; astonished.
My words on their paper.
My thoughts in other heads.

v.

Consider the sublime, moments when
reality feels like a dream, and tell
your tired heart to stay open to surprise.

Your manuscript frequently references light in natural settings. Can you talk about how nature contributes to the healing process described in your poems?”

I grew up in church. I belonged to a ‘twice on sunday and multiple times of week’ kind of family. We were real deal ‘churchies’. Inside the church I found a community that championed me. Encouragement was part of the infrastructure. As a child and teen there was nowhere else I wanted to be.  It was my safe place, where I genuinely felt known and loved. 

Fast forward to 2015: I’m 37, with three kids, and my husband is an executive pastor who has been working at the same church for 16 years. Suddenly, despite ten years of repeated promises of succession, he was made redundant. This decision was intensely confusing to me and so I sort to respectfully ask questions, to which no one could or cared to answer.

As a result, I started to ask other questions about the church and the doctrine I had been taught. I felt drawn to a more contemplative approach to my faith. Instead of gathering in buildings, attending services, or participating in the routine of church activities, I began seeking spiritual practice elsewhere, mainly because the original practices were triggering and felt disingenuous to observe. I went to beaches, walked through the bush, or sat by the lake and found nature far more healing than singing or sermons.

Could you describe your creative process when writing this book? 

Everything I write begins with a seed of resonance—whether it’s a quote, a word, a story, a memory, or an emotion. Once I have that seed, I start writing (with pen and paper), imagining how to convey what I want to say in as few words as possible. I visualise the shape of the piece on the page and how it connects to the themes of the book.

Next, I rewrite the finished poem onto a loose piece of paper, editing as I go. These loose pages are then arranged in a carefully considered order and typed into a Word document for further refinement.

Finally, I format the book in InDesign. Of course, more editing follows until I feel it’s time to set it aside and return with fresh eyes. After a few more tweaks, and when I finally feel ready for the world to see it, I publish.

What impact do you hope ‘If You’re Looking for Brightness’ will have on its readers? Are there specific feelings or revelations you aim to evoke?

I want ‘If You’re Looking for Brightness’ to illuminate the space where readers are. Whether that be in a place of despair, a season of loneliness, a state of disappointment, or a moment of uncertainty. 

The subtitle, ‘Finding Light,’ is as clear as I could put it. I want readers to find the light they need or at least by reading where I found it, know where to look in their own lives.

Lastly, what were some of the challenges you faced while writing this book?

Firstly, having to write a lot of “crappy” poems before finding a little gold. The process of sifting through words and drafts felt daunting at times. There is nothing more discouraging than encountering your own incompetence. Every person who seeks to write a book must continue to believe they can write the work that is in heart, even as their own writing insists it is beyond them.

Second, writing about light itself proved tricky. It’s an abstract concept when not referring to its physical properties.  I had to find ways to ground those abstract ideas in tangible experiences.

Finally, visiting painful narratives was a real challenge. In the section titled ‘The Light in Pain,’ I had to face my own unresolved questions, especially when those who could have provided answers chose not to. It was difficult to frame a narrative that made sitting with these difficult experiences not only bearable but also illuminating.

Categories
Creativity life lessons

The Art of Reblooming: Finding Renewal and Growth

The art of reblooming

Having earned my diploma in floristry, I worked as a florist in the years after I left school. In that time, I learned a lot about flowers, and not just how to arrange them.

Flowers are amazing because they do so many things. They attract bees and other pollinators, help plants reproduce, and add to the diversity of life around us. Each flower has its own unique shape and colour, which shows how they’ve adapted to their environment. 

Working with flowers made me appreciate how they’re more than just pretty objects. They symbolise emotions, commemorate important moments in our lives, and maintain our connection to the natural world. Moreover, flowers represent growth and renewal, reminding us of the continuous cycles of life and the beauty of new beginnings.

Growth and renewal are fundamental aspects of life. This concept of reblooming—of coming into bloom again after a period of dormancy or decline—is a powerful metaphor for the resilience and renewal we can find within ourselves.

What Does Reblooming Mean?

In the world of floristry, reblooming is the phenomenon where plants flower more than once in their growing season. Similarly, in our lives, reblooming can mean recovering from setbacks, finding new energy after burnout, or embracing new beginnings after endings. It’s a reminder that it’s always possible to flourish again, despite past difficulties.

Embracing Life’s Cycles

Just as perennials in the garden bloom anew each season, we too can find opportunities for renewal at different stages of our lives. Recognizing that life is composed of cycles — each with its own time for growth and rejuvenation — helps us maintain hope and stay open to new possibilities.

How to Embrace Change and Reblooming

To successfully rebloom, embracing change is essential. Here’s how you can start:

-Let Go of the Past: Release old habits and beliefs that don’t serve your growth. This is akin to pruning dead flowers to make way for new growth.

Letting go is often a gradual process, like lifting one finger at a time before releasing something from your palm. It’s scary and lonely, and there’s often grief and doubt to navigate through. Sometimes, we have to let go of beliefs, people, or ways of living that we never imagined we would, making the shock of it all yet another aspect to process.

– Cultivate New Habits: Like a gardener nurturing their plants, cultivate habits and thoughts that encourage growth and positivity. Put yourself in the way of beauty, seeking out and appreciating the small wonders in everyday life.

Practice gratitude to shift your focus to the positive aspects of your experiences. Learn to be present, embracing each moment fully without dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

Embrace creativity and self-expression, allowing yourself the freedom to explore and develop your unique talents and passions. By doing so, you create a fertile environment for personal growth and fulfillment.

-Stay Open to Learning: Every phase of life has lessons to offer. Stay curious and open to the new insights each season brings. Learning is growing, and intentionally enrolling in education can move your life forward with assistance.

It’s like hopping on a train—the syllabus will take you somewhere, and by the time you have completed your study, you will have arrived at another destination. 

Learning is easier than ever, so don’t let time or finances get in the way. If you can’t afford to enroll in a course, commit to watching a series of YouTube videos about a subject, listening to a podcast series, or visiting your local or online library to indulge in learning.

Trust me when I say learning can be a lifeline.

The Benefits of Reblooming

Reblooming is not merely about recovery; it’s about reaching new levels of growth and understanding. It can lead to increased resilience, deeper self-awareness, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Each time we rebloom, we enhance our capacity to navigate life’s challenges.

Embracing the idea of reblooming can transform how we view our lives. It encourages us to keep evolving and growing, no matter what challenges we face.

Remember, with each season, there’s a fresh opportunity to start anew and bloom once again.

Poem used in the image is from ‘A Strong and Fragile Thing’, musing on the wisdom and wonder found in the natural world.

Categories
Creativity News Poetry Publishing

If You’re Looking for Brightness: Inspirational Poetry about Light.

light

Today, I’m excited to share with you the progress I’m making in bringing my next lil book into the world, ‘If You’re Looking for Brightness: Poems on Light and Where to Find It.’

My heart for this collection is to offer a little light in a world that at times seems to be on the brink of collapse. We all need someone to hold up a lantern in dark seasons and show us how to find perspectives full of luminous empowerment.

The Spark of Inspiration

Every book begins with a spark; a moment where the faint outline of an idea starts to glow with potential. For ‘If You’re Looking for Brightness,’ that spark was the concept of light—not just as a physical phenomenon but as a metaphor for hope, clarity, and discovery. 

The idea struck during a rough patch. I remember scribbling in my journal one evening, “All I need is a glimmer.” What I was really reaching for was just a tiny hint of insight, a sign to help me keep pushing forward. 

We’ve all been there, haven’t we? Sometimes, all it takes is a simple “thank you” or an “you’re doing okay” from someone to keep our spirits up and our heads above water.

I started reflecting on all the times I’ve managed to move forward, all the different ways light had reached me in the past. I realized that there are four main ways I find the clarity and strength I need during those foggy times—when I’m unsure about my next steps, who I am, or how to move past a challenging moment.

These sources of light for me are found in love, pain, living things, and my own spirit. 

The Light in Love

When I’m going through tough times, seeing love in action can be incredibly life-giving. All I have to do is notice the many ways love has been shown to me. Whether it’s a warm hug from a friend, those quiet moments of understanding with my husband, or just some encouraging words from someone—anyone—it all counts. 

How do we bring more light into the world? It’s simple. We start by giving our attention to all the love we’ve received and continue to receive. 

The Light in Pain

Although it’s often unwelcome, I’ve learned that pain is a profound teacher. It shines a light on what truly matters, stripping away the superficial and leaving only the essentials. 

Pain challenges me to grow, to reshape my life, and to emerge stronger. It’s in these moments of discomfort and challenge that I gain deep insights into my own resilience and capabilities, teaching me lessons that comfort never could.

The Light In Living Things

There is an undeniable light in the natural world.  I feel that living things often offer me a sense of connection to something larger than myself, grounding me in the present and rekindling my sense of wonder and possibility.

Recently, nature has been an incredible source of healing for me. It inspired me so much that I wrote a book of musings titled ‘A Strong and Fragile Thing,’ capturing the wisdom and wonder of the natural world.

I can’t explain exactly how it works, but somehow, just ten minutes under a tree, in the ocean, or looking up at the sky seems to bring everything into clearer focus.

The Light Within My Own Spirit: 

There’s the light that comes from within—my own spirit. This internal flame fuels my creativity, drives my persistence, and nurtures my hope. It’s a personal sanctuary of wisdom, always ready to guide me when I take the time to listen. 

This light is perhaps the most personal and potent, for it is shaped by my experiences, beliefs, and dreams. Simply, I believe we’re equipped with an innate radar that helps us detect great things hidden just beneath the surface of our everyday lives, things we might never notice unless we dig a little deeper.

Anticipating the Release

Looking ahead, there’s much to do. The next steps involve more revisions, professional editing, cover design and eventually, the release. Look out in the coming months for the exact release date, cover art reveal and a list of where you can grab your copy. 

If you are interested in being a first reader and receiving your own digital copy in exchange for an honest review, I’d love to hear from you. Contact me here. 

The Ever-Evolving Path

Creating ‘If You’re Looking for Brightness’ has truly shown me the beauty and complexity of the writing process. It’s not just about crafting words—it’s a deep dive into learning about myself and how light can blaze even in darkness.

As I move closer to the final stages of getting the book ready for release, I want to encourage you to keep chasing those bursts of inspiration.

Keep looking for light in your own life and then write it down. The light you see today might just be the brightness you or someone else needs tomorrow.

Categories
Creativity heart and soul life lessons

Investing in the Unknown: When Is It Worth Risking Time, Money, and Energy?

investing in the unknown

In the pursuit of any creative dream—whether you’re a writer, musician, artist, or creator—there comes a pivotal moment. It’s that heart-thumping instance where you stand at the crossroads of inspiration and practicality. The question looms: “Is investing in my creative passion worth the risk?” I know, I’ve asked myself this many times and the answer is always found in unpacking my fears.

Understanding the Stakes

To me, investing in the unknown  often feels like wandering through a fog—exciting yet intimidating. This isn’t just about financial investment. It’s about the hours of practice, the emotional energy in creating something personal, and the vulnerability of sharing it with the world. 

Recognizing what’s at stake is the first step toward rational, yet passionate, decision-making. First, I acknowledge that there are risks and that is why I feel resistance and apprehension.

The Real Cost of ‘What If?’

Before you turn away from your dream due to fear of the unknown, consider the cost of the unexplored path. What is the price of not knowing what could have been? 

I have a habit of focusing on the risk of failure neglecting the equally significant risk of regret. When I pull myself up on this taking a more balanced approach, the thought of never trying then becomes a far greater burden than the potential loss of resources.

Risk vs. Reward: A Creative Calculation

Not every creative venture will succeed in conventional terms. But every effort has taught me something valuable. Whether it’s improving my skills, expanding my network, or simply discovering my limits, these are the intangible rewards that I feel outweigh initial costs.

When assessing risk, I ask myself: Can I handle the emotional and financial impact if this doesn’t go as planned? What might I gain, even if I don’t achieve my original goal?

These questions help to pivot my perspective from seeing an unknown outcome solely as a potential loss to viewing it as a field of possibilities.

Investment in Yourself Is Never Wasted

When we invest in creativity, we’re building more than just a portfolio; we’re developing ourselves. Each step forward enhances our resilience, hones our craft, and deepens our understanding of both our capabilities and our potential. These are the tools that build not just a project, but an expansive creative life.

When I invest in my creativity I am also investing in my joy, fulfillment, sense of purpose and satisfaction that financial success alone cannot match.

Navigating the Unknown with Strategic Steps

While embracing risks is part of the creative process, being strategic about it can reduce unnecessary losses. Remember these three things:

  • You can start small: Before I wrote my first lil poetry book, I posted poems anonymously on instagram. 
  • Seek Feedback: Seek out mentorship. For me this looked like entering competitions where my work would be critiqued.
  • Build Incrementally: Instead of pouring all resources into one big project, develop in stages.

The Leap of Faith

Ultimately, investing in the unknown requires a leap of faith, but most often it is a calculated one.  While not all my investments have paid off in ways I wanted, all have contributed to my growth and understanding of my work and myself.

So, is it worth it? Perhaps better questions to ask might be, ‘Am I taking it far enough? Am I allowing myself the space to fully explore and embrace the possibilities before me? Will I look back on this moment in my life knowing that with wisdom I courageously moved forward? 

Categories
Books Poetry

Why Poetry Month Matters: Awakening Society Through Verse.

poetry month

April brings us Poetry Month, a special time to dive into the world of poems. It’s not just about reading old poetry books; it’s about celebrating the way poetry impacts our lives; how it can really stir up our thoughts and feelings and make us see the world in new ways.

Poetry: The Language We All Feel

Poems help us understand love, sadness, happiness, and loss in deep ways. During Poetry Month, we’re reminded that poems are not just for book lovers; they’re for everyone. They’re in our favorite songs, in powerful speeches, and in those simple lines that say so much about what we feel.

Poems Show Us Who We Are

Poems are like mirrors that show us what’s happening in the world and within us. Poetry is full of story, whether it’s one of hope, struggle, or everyday life. Poetry Month makes this mirror even bigger, letting us hear from all kinds of people and understand each other better.

Finding Comfort in Poems When Times Are Tough

Life can be hard, and sometimes we go through really tough times. That’s when poems can be a big comfort. They remind us that we’re not alone; that our pain is not unique. Poetry Month is a time to remember that, through the toughest times, the words we need are available to us. 

Poems Can Spark Change

Poems can not only cause us to think new thoughts and feel deeply, they can also cause us to act.  Poetry Month celebrates not just the beauty of poems but also their power to make us think about big issues and make meaningful change.

My favourite  poets use their words to help me imagine a better world and inspire me to help make that world real.

Giving Poetry Time

Think of reading poetry like cultivating a garden; it requires patience, attention, and an openness to the insight and emotion that may emerge.

To read poetry in a way that allows it to make a significant impact in your life, approach each poem with a willingness to engage deeply, not just with your mind but with your senses and emotions. 

Take your time to savor the imagery, rhythm, and layers of meaning. Read aloud when possible, letting the sounds and cadences resonate.

Reflect on the emotions and thoughts the poem evokes, and consider keeping a poetry journal to jot down your reflections and the personal connections you draw. 

By immersing yourself fully and giving each poem space to breathe in your life, you allow the subtle magic of poetry to unfold, enriching your experience of the world and offering new perspectives on the familiar.

Happy Poetry Month – May you discover the poems that help you to breakthrough into a deeper, truer, freer and more fulfilling life.

My poetry books.

Categories
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‘.

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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!