The end of February brings a strange sense of weariness for me. The spring is here under false pretence as the snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils uncurl themselves from the dirt and cold of winter only to be battered by new frosts and dropping temperatures. The world can’t quite decide what to do. Indecisive day to day, being pushed and pulled in and out of the season. It’s a trying time for a lot of us now. The hope the brighter days brings over the long wait for the summer months. Death grows closer to us all with each passing year and another family member gone never to return. What feeling is this? It is grief. The numbness and the dullness of some days make me passionate to do drastic and irrational things, to brighten the days I have left. It’s a dark cloud though I hide it well. I do what I can daily for the others in my life, but now I feel a need to be selfish and do what I want to do to feel better. Trouble is I don’t remember what that is. I have hidden myself so well I do not know what I am anymore. I take time, filling it with the mundane things, just to fill it. But the space is what I need. Its empty and dark and I am scared. Of course, I fill it up with TV. Movies, scrolling. Oh the scrolling. Better for me to feel the pain? Is that the truth? I should feel the pain, it will teach me, fill me, heal me? But so, slow its progress is it makes me turn away back to the distractions that comfort me. To feel the pain that burns my bones, is impossibly horrendous. Distraction is everywhere and its comforting. But is it so that brutal pain could be good for me? To feel the pain in my heart with all that I am. To learn the lesson and heal and help others. To grow into something better rather than stay in that place, that comfortable distraction. That keeps me from moving much at all…. My grief for family and all, my general pain and general distraction is wearying.
January
What a swell of emotions it brings.
Firstly the resolutions to do better in weight, fitness, eating and life, yet we still have all the leftovers from Christmas to get through. Being a lady who hates food waste and also loves a bargain if its useful, means I still have a lot of those treats still in the cupboards, and also some generous leftovers from the Christmas gifts of chocolates, chocolates and more chocolates from colleagues and friends I’ve made since moving here last year.
December was a busy one, with 5 productions, juggling my day job and attending as many other seasonal joys and parties as I could manage. I do love the Christmas season. Although determined at the beginning of the month to do better, a stumble in my home life has meant and things are frozen in time waiting for the dust to settle. No great forward planning possible, controlling the only things I can in the short term till life can return to a stable situation again, and after a couple weeks of the void of the unknown it looks like February will bring stability again. All the good intentions are put on hold and another question floats into my awareness which is “why do we do this to ourselves?” After the loss of two people this past year and another just days ago it gently forces me to appreciate that life has its seasons and my own agendas can get thrown up into the air only to float down, a mess of papers, only to land in a wet and muddy puddle never to be useful again. So although this stumble was unintentional yet damaging, its also given us lessons to learn and ultimately change for the better. Not the resolutions we had set, but the change we finds ourselves with, and now in hindsight I am grateful for it. The wonderful thing about beginning new things, is that it can start at any time. Take heart. Despite what the world seems to be telling you, you don’t need a New Year to start over and if you fail the year is not failed. New starts are everywhere, New moons, Chinese new year, Easter, Mondays, this afternoon, after the next 15 minutes!
The start happens when you change your attitude and you are ready, not when you are told.
Remembering those who are gone I realise that no-one’s life is ever perfect, despite appearances and that we are all works in progress who need support and help from one another. Although there has been loss, there is also so much to be gained. This week I joined a group who have a project in mind for the summer and nothing is going to stop that from happening. I hope I will continue to be a part of it to its completion and though I’m only one meeting in, I feel very excited to be involved. I’m meeting new people at this juncture in my life and sometimes it is hard, but I am doing my best and being myself in the hope that my tribe will come to me. I already have some great memories from 2023 despite the losses, and I’m now able to enjoy the January award season after all the efforts of last year.
I hope 2024 brings as much joy and as many lessons, I feel certain it will.
Go gently, be grateful, love lots. x
Practice Self Care
Nurturing Your Well-being for Success
“Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” – Eleanor Brownn.
This quote serves as a powerful reminder that taking care of yourself is not selfish but necessary. When you prioritize self-care, you replenish your energy, enhance your well-being, and have more to give to your passion and business. It’s a reminder that you deserve to invest in yourself and that your success is intertwined with your self-care practices.
When pursuing your passion and building a business, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care. Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is not only essential for your personal happiness but also for your professional success. Here are some key aspects to consider when practicing self-care:
1. Physical Well-being: Take care of your body by prioritizing regular exercise, nourishing your body with healthy food, and getting enough restful sleep. Engage in activities that energize you and promote physical well-being. Remember, a healthy body supports a healthy mind and fuels your productivity.
2. Mental Well-being: Nurture your mental well-being by managing stress, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities that promote mental clarity and relaxation. Set boundaries to protect your mental space and prioritize activities that bring you joy and peace of mind.
3. Emotional Well-being: Pay attention to your emotions and practice self-compassion. Allow yourself to feel and process your emotions, seeking support when needed. Engage in activities that uplift your spirits and bring you emotional fulfillment. Surround yourself with positive influences and cultivate a supportive network.
4. Rest and Recharge: Give yourself permission to rest and recharge. Schedule regular breaks and downtime to prevent burnout. Engage in activities that help you relax and rejuvenate, whether it’s reading a book, spending time in nature, or practicing a hobby you enjoy. Remember, rest is not a luxury but a necessity for your overall well-being.
5. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your time, energy, and well-being. Learn to say no to commitments that do not align with your priorities or drain your resources. Prioritize activities that align with your values and contribute to your personal and professional growth. Setting boundaries allows you to create a healthy work-life balance.
Practicing self-care is not a luxury; it’s a vital component of your overall success and well-being. By nurturing your physical, mental, and emotional health, you create a solid foundation for pursuing your passion and building a thriving business. Remember, you are your most valuable asset, and taking care of yourself is an investment that pays dividends in all areas of your life.
Building a Personal Brand
Authenticity, Storytelling, and Meaningful Connections
“Your personal brand is a promise to your clients… a promise of quality, consistency, competency, and reliability.” – Jason Hartman.
Building a strong personal brand is essential for standing out in a competitive marketplace and attracting clients who resonate with your values and offerings. When it comes to pursuing your passion and creating a business around it, developing a compelling personal brand can make all the difference. Here are some key elements to consider:
1. Authenticity: Authenticity is the foundation of a strong personal brand. Be true to yourself and let your unique personality shine through. Embrace your quirks, strengths, and values. Authenticity builds trust and helps you connect with your audience on a deeper level.
2. Storytelling: Craft a compelling narrative that communicates your journey, experiences, and the reasons behind your passion. Share your story in a way that resonates with your target audience. Use storytelling to create an emotional connection and inspire others to join you on your journey.
3. Define Your Niche: Identify your target audience and niche down your offerings. By focusing on a specific group of people with specific needs, you can position yourself as an expert in your field. This allows you to tailor your messaging and offerings to better serve your ideal clients.
4. Consistency: Consistency is key in building a personal brand. Ensure that your messaging, visual identity, and overall brand experience are consistent across all platforms. This creates a cohesive and memorable brand presence that helps you stand out in the minds of your audience.
5. Provide Value: Offer valuable content and insights to your audience. Share your expertise, tips, and resources that align with your passion and the needs of your target audience. This positions you as a trusted authority and builds credibility in your field.
6. Engage and Connect: Actively engage with your audience and build meaningful connections. Respond to comments, messages, and inquiries promptly. Participate in relevant communities, forums, and social media groups to establish yourself as a valuable contributor. Building genuine relationships fosters trust and loyalty.
7. Collaborate and Network: Seek opportunities to collaborate with others in your industry or complementary fields. Collaborations can expand your reach, introduce you to new audiences, and provide valuable insights and support. Networking with like-minded individuals can also lead to partnerships, referrals, and new business opportunities.
8. Continual Learning and Growth: Stay updated with industry trends, new technologies, and evolving best practices. Invest in your personal and professional development to enhance your skills and knowledge. This positions you as a forward-thinking professional who is committed to delivering the best possible value to your clients.
Building a personal brand takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it. It allows you to differentiate yourself, attract your ideal clients, and create a lasting impact. Remember, your personal brand is a promise to your clients—a promise of quality, consistency, competency, and reliability. By staying true to your values, telling your story, and building meaningful connections, you can cultivate a personal brand that resonates with your audience and propels your passion-driven business forward.
Balancing Work and Passion
Pursuing Your Dreams alongside a Full-Time Job
“Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.” – Sam Levenson.
Finding a balance between work and passion is a common challenge for many individuals. While a full-time job provides stability and financial security, pursuing your passions, such as acting or performing, can bring immense joy and fulfilment. With the right mindset and strategies, it is possible to pursue your dreams alongside your professional commitments.
- Identify Your Priorities: Start by clarifying your priorities and values. Determine what truly matters to you and what you want to achieve in both your professional and personal life. This will help you make intentional choices and allocate your time and energy accordingly.
- Create a Schedule: Time management is key when balancing work and passion. Create a schedule that allows you to dedicate specific blocks of time to your passion projects. Whether it’s early mornings, evenings, or weekends, find pockets of time that you can consistently commit to pursuing your dreams.
- Set Realistic Goals: Break down your passion projects into smaller, achievable goals. This will help you stay focused and motivated. Set deadlines for each goal and track your progress along the way. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small, to maintain momentum and a sense of achievement.
- Maximize Efficiency: Look for ways to maximize efficiency in both your work and passion pursuits. Streamline your work processes, delegate tasks when possible, and prioritize your most important responsibilities. When it comes to your passion projects, identify areas where you can optimize your time and resources to make the most of the limited hours available.
- Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and like-minded individuals who understand and encourage your pursuit of passion. Share your goals and challenges with them, and seek their advice and guidance. Collaborate with others who share similar interests to amplify your impact and create meaningful connections.
- Practice Self-Care: Balancing work and passion requires taking care of yourself. Prioritize self-care activities that recharge and rejuvenate you. This could include exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being will enhance your productivity and overall satisfaction.
- Stay Resilient: Balancing work and passion can be demanding, and setbacks are inevitable. Stay resilient and maintain a positive mindset. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Remember your why and the deep sense of fulfillment that pursuing your passion brings. Keep going, even when faced with obstacles.
- Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way. Recognize the milestones you achieve, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrating your progress will fuel your motivation and reinforce your commitment to pursuing your dreams.
Remember, finding balance between work and passion is a continuous journey. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt. Be patient with yourself and embrace the process. With determination and a clear focus, you can successfully pursue your dreams alongside your full-time job. Don’t watch the clock; instead, do what it does—keep going, and let your passion guide you towards a life of fulfilment and purpose.
Transitioning Careers
Transitioning Careers: Embracing New Opportunities and Discovering Your Passion*”The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs*
Transitioning careers can be an exhilarating and transformative experience. It’s an opportunity to explore new paths, discover your passion, and create a fulfilling professional journey. If you’re considering a career transition, know that your diverse background and skills can be valuable assets in this new chapter of your life.
One of the first steps in transitioning careers is to identify the transferable skills you have acquired throughout your professional journey. Reflect on the skills you have developed in your previous roles and industries. These skills could include communication, problem-solving, leadership, creativity, adaptability, and more. Recognizing and highlighting these transferable skills will help potential employers see the value you bring to the table.
As you embark on this career transition, take the time to research and explore different industries and sectors. Familiarize yourself with the opportunities available and identify the areas that align with your interests, values, and strengths. This will help you narrow down your focus and tailor your job search accordingly.
Networking is a powerful tool when transitioning careers. Reach out to professionals in your desired industry, attend industry events, and join relevant online communities. Building connections and seeking advice from those who have successfully transitioned can provide valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities. Networking can also help you gain a deeper understanding of the industry and its trends.
Educational and training programs can play a significant role in your career transition. Consider enrolling in courses or certifications that enhance your knowledge and skills in your desired field. This not only demonstrates your commitment to learning and growth but also provides you with a competitive edge in the job market. Look for programs that offer practical skills and hands-on experience that align with your career goals.
While transitioning careers can be challenging, maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Embrace the opportunities that come your way and be open to starting at an entry-level position or taking on internships or volunteer roles to gain experience and build credibility in your new field. Remember, every step you take is a stepping stone towards your ultimate career goals.
Seize the opportunity to leverage your unique background and experiences. Highlight how your diverse skill set, adaptability, and ability to learn quickly can contribute to your new field. Emphasize your passion, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. Show potential employers that you are committed to making a successful transition and making a positive impact in your chosen industry.
As Steve Jobs once said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Embrace this career transition as an opportunity to explore new passions and discover what truly ignites your enthusiasm. Emphasize your dedication, curiosity, and eagerness to contribute to your new field. With the right mindset, preparation, and determination, you can successfully navigate this transition and embark on a fulfilling career that aligns with your passions and values.
Transitioning careers is an exciting journey of self-discovery and growth. Embrace the possibilities, stay resilient, and trust in your abilities. With passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, you can create a fulfilling and meaningful professional path that brings you joy and satisfaction.
Cultivating Calmness
Cultivating Calmness: Nurturing Inner Peace in a Chaotic World
“Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.” – Hermann Hesse
In today’s fast-paced and chaotic world, finding moments of calmness and inner peace has become more important than ever. Cultivating calmness is not about escaping reality or avoiding challenges; it’s about developing the inner strength and resilience to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and tranquility.
The journey towards cultivating calmness begins with self-awareness. Take the time to understand your triggers and stressors. What situations or thoughts tend to disrupt your peace of mind? By identifying these triggers, you can develop strategies to manage them effectively.
One powerful tool for cultivating calmness is mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment. It involves paying attention to your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations with curiosity and acceptance. By practicing mindfulness, you can develop a greater sense of self-awareness and learn to respond to challenging situations with clarity and composure.
Another essential aspect of cultivating calmness is self-care. Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is crucial for maintaining inner peace. Prioritize activities that nourish your body and mind, such as exercise, healthy eating, quality sleep, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring you joy. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s a necessary foundation for overall well-being.
In addition to self-care, incorporating relaxation techniques into your daily routine can help cultivate calmness. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation are just a few examples of relaxation techniques that can help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. Find what works best for you and make it a regular practice.
Cultivating calmness also involves cultivating positive and supportive relationships. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Seek out individuals who share your values and support your journey towards inner peace. Engage in meaningful conversations, practice active listening, and offer support to others. Building a strong support network can provide a sense of belonging and contribute to your overall well-being.
Another powerful way to cultivate calmness is by embracing simplicity and decluttering your life. Simplify your physical environment by removing unnecessary clutter and creating a space that promotes peace and serenity. Simplify your schedule by prioritizing activities that align with your values and bring you joy. By letting go of the unnecessary, you create space for what truly matters.
Lastly, cultivating calmness requires a shift in perspective. Embrace the idea that you have control over your reactions and mindset. Choose to focus on the positive aspects of life, practice gratitude, and let go of negative thoughts and emotions that no longer serve you. Remember, calmness is not the absence of challenges; it’s the ability to navigate them with a sense of inner peace and resilience.
In the words of Hermann Hesse, “Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.” Cultivating calmness is a lifelong journey that requires practice and patience. It’s about nurturing your inner sanctuary and finding solace amidst the chaos. Start today, one step at a time, and embrace the transformative power of calmness in your life.
Embracing Minimalism
Embracing Minimalism: Simplify Your Life and Find Freedom
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” – Leonardo da Vinci
In a world filled with constant distractions and an overwhelming abundance of possessions, many individuals are seeking solace in the concept of minimalism. Embracing minimalism is not just about decluttering your physical space; it’s a mindset shift that can lead to a more intentional and fulfilling life. By consciously choosing to live with less, you can create space for what truly matters and find a sense of freedom and peace.
Minimalism is not about deprivation or sacrificing the things you love. It’s about identifying what truly brings value and joy to your life and letting go of the excess. It’s about focusing on quality over quantity, and embracing a simpler, more intentional way of living.
One of the key benefits of embracing minimalism is the sense of clarity it brings. When you declutter your physical space, you also declutter your mind. By removing the unnecessary distractions and possessions, you create a space that allows you to think more clearly and make better decisions. You gain a sense of control over your environment and your life.
Minimalism also encourages mindfulness and gratitude. When you have fewer possessions, you become more aware of the things you do have and appreciate them on a deeper level. You learn to find contentment in the present moment, rather than constantly seeking external validation or chasing after the next material possession.
Living a minimalist lifestyle can also have a positive impact on your finances. By reducing your consumption and focusing on what truly matters, you can save money and avoid unnecessary debt. You become more conscious of your spending habits and make intentional choices that align with your values and goals.
Embracing minimalism is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a personal journey that looks different for everyone. It’s about finding the balance that works for you and aligning your life with your values. Whether you choose to downsize your home, simplify your wardrobe, or streamline your digital life, the key is to be intentional and mindful in your choices.
So, how can you start embracing minimalism and experience the freedom it brings? Begin by decluttering your physical space. Take a look at your belongings and ask yourself if each item truly serves a purpose or brings you joy. Let go of the things that no longer serve you and create a space that reflects your values and priorities.
Next, examine your commitments and obligations. Are there activities or relationships that drain your energy and don’t align with your values? Learn to say no to things that don’t bring you joy or contribute to your personal growth. Focus on the activities and relationships that truly matter to you and bring fulfillment to your life.
Finally, practice gratitude and mindfulness. Take time each day to appreciate the simple pleasures in life. Cultivate a sense of gratitude for what you have, rather than constantly striving for more. Be present in the moment and savor the experiences that bring you joy and fulfillment.
In the words of Leonardo da Vinci, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” Embracing minimalism is not just about simplifying your physical space; it’s about simplifying your life and finding freedom. By letting go of the unnecessary and focusing on what truly matters, you can create a life of purpose, intention, and fulfillment.
So, are you ready to embrace minimalism and experience the transformative power it holds? Take the first step today and start simplifying your life. Remember, it’s not about perfection, but progress. Each small step you take towards minimalism brings you closer to a life of freedom and authenticity
Don’t stay still for too long
“Good actions give strength to ourselves and inspire good actions in others.”
— Plato
The one constant thing about all of our lives is how things will change. Just ask your Granny or Grandpa. The things we do today we take for granted and though nostalgia stirs up some great feelings of the past (and sometimes also the not so great) we can’t live in it forever, not matter how hard we try. Neither is it much good to only be looking to the future, it sometimes goes something like this; “When I have this or that I’ll be happy” but whenever we get that thing the feeling soon passes and then were back to getting the next thing to satisfy ourselves. Sound Familiar? Then there are those who say “live in the present, live for today, live like tomorrow doesn’t exist”, well you may have a great day but isn’t that a sure fire way to financial ruin or incarceration? Let alone living the pain of the consequences of your actions.
So what’s the answer? Balance. Our true power comes from the balance of the three. Learning the lessons life has already taught us from the past, helping ourselves and those around us in the present and also having goals or wishes for the future, all whilst knowing that this is the only time we will have this particular day. This might seem overwhelming but this is where your true power comes from. Make the best out of all the days. Especially the hard ones. Know that NOTHING is permanent. Face these facts, hard as they may be and then soon you will be in a better place to manage change and realise that you control your life.
Let me help if I can. Remember, Its ok to change your mind. Do things at your own pace. Ask for help if you need it and connect with the community or professionals who can guide you to your best self. You got this. I believe in you.
And my biggest tip? Just don’t stay still for too long.
What is missing for you?
I attended an online class last week about how to make some money in one of the various side hustles going around currently. The cynic in me was screaming out that its the next get rich quick scam, but the ever present hopeful voice reminding me there are lessons to be learnt everyday, and this, if nothing else, is learning. I listened to the hour long presentation, informative and full of action steps including maxing out credit cards (red flags for me), followed by the 45 minute Q&A where the host answered questions from the chat as the places on the course sold out one by one. This created an urgency for the product on offer (a support system and a blueprint for success, if you were lucky and worked hard, all for a fee of around a thousand pounds each) whilst the questions seemed to be repeated and not really of any valuable substance. After the course I felt a little hopeful that even I could profit from following this line of action, however after an hour of research, the promoted 25k a year, year on year, was actually more realistically 5k, not enough to quit the day job by a long shot. If I had bought in I would likely be in a position where I would also owe money. This would have been a long view to a slow profit and something that required a lot of hard work and I didn’t feel would have a positive effect on me, not enough for 5K. Now don’t get me wrong, I appreciate that 5k is a lot of money and if I didn’t have any job it would be an ok idea (apart from the maxing out of credit cards). But, as I have a regular paid job, and as I get older, I recognise what will and wont work for me.
So why did I even attend the class? Well I was interested, I was ready for a change and as I said above, everyday is an opportunity to learn. I know my life right now is ok. I have a nice job which is an ok wage and is comfortable. I am resisting the urge to follow my own passions as I know they wont pay the bills and my current situation does, but I am feeling that something is missing.
Maybe its not the money I feel is lacking, its the connection with others. In my day job, I don’t usually come across the same energy of the people who I worked with in the entertainment world. Don’t get me wrong they’re passionate about what they do, but personally I have little interest and its beginning to feel a bit disingenuous, except for that fact that I am good at what I do. (It’s summertime and very quiet at work at the moment, hopefully I’ll be able to connect with the clients more once the holidays are over!)
I know sales people do it everyday, but I have trouble backing things I don’t care about. I am in no way a sales person however I do enjoy sharing what I do care about. I care about others and the pursuit of happiness. I take pride in being the front of house boss and in making my job of connecting people with their visitors or deliveries my joy, yes I’m part of a bigger picture of an industry I have no clue about, and no real desire to learn about, but I’m great at my sliver of that bigger picture, my job as the first point of contact. I’ve had compliments that I put people at ease and help reassure the unsure, but I really just want to help others have a great experience. Boil it down to this: I like to help others.
So lets begin.
What is missing for you? What are you good at and enjoy? Perhaps the answer to these questions can show you the key to greater happiness. Taking where you are, right now, and being content with it. Of course things will change, that’s the one constant thing about life. But the wonderful thing is that we all have some control over the changes we can make in our lives. How can you find yourself happy with your current situation? How can you find what you enjoy and do more of it? There is a way, several actually, we just need to figure it out which path to take and not stay still for too long.
Having the proper mindset, moving outside your comfort zone, developing and maintaining healthy relationships, and staying focused have been key drivers of success for thousands of years.
“Do not say a little in many words but a great deal in few.”
— Pythagoras
Success is earned, one step at a time. One of the most invaluable skills a person can have is being able to clearly express what they want. Sometimes the hardest part of finding success is gathering the courage to get started. As long as you’re learning, you’ll never really fail.
Rachel E Hill 