There is a quote that was repeating in my head as I pulled together this month’s moodboard, and here it is:
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” – Howard Thurmon
While January’s moodboard was quiet and thoughtful as I eased myself into the new year, February had me craving energy. Or VERVE. Which, in a variety of definitions, basically comes down to enthusiasm. Vitality. Exuberance. Spirit. Passion.
It doesn’t seem odd that this craving would come at the end of a long winter that’s felt even longer thanks to the daily stress our world is experiencing these days. But, as I’ve had a few conversations with people lately who are in the same boat as me, I’ve realized that it’s more than that.
Remember when the recession hit in 2008? It was around then that quite a few people who lost their jobs decided to pursue their passions. Creative communities started to form. People were throwing themselves into the work they had always wanted to do – designers, crafters, bloggers, writers, you name it. And it was amazing. We were all constantly discovering each other while simultaneously supporting each other. And then… it became a job. And ten years later we find ourselves still lucky enough to be doing what we love… but 10 years is a long time to keep up that passion and enthusiasm!
There seem to be a million books, articles and workshops out there about finding your passion or building a business, but what about the book of “Well, I still like what I do, and things are going fine, but I’ve been running this business for 1o years and I have no idea where to go from here”. Does that book exist? The evolution of a business and a brand is a tricky thing. Especially when you are so personally tied to it.
In January I talked about how I wanted to simplify and focus a bit more this year, and a huge part of that is because my energy has become so scattered. It’s hard to be really good at anything when you’re trying to be awesome at all the things. How do we find energy and inspiration while keeping up with it all? That’s the eternal struggle, isn’t it. Especially for bloggers (sidenote: if you’re a blogger, you have to read this article.)
So, I guess this month’s word isn’t so much something that I’m feeling, but something that I’m seeking.
For me, the past few years have involved a lot of changes in my personal and professional life, and along the way I’ve tested the waters in quite a few areas: interior design, photo shoot styling, hosting pop-up dinners and workshops. And they’ve all been fun. I’ve also kept an eye on my fellow bloggers and have seen where they’ve put their energy (books, product lines, collaborations, etc.) which makes me realize that there are so many areas left to explore – if I want them.
Which brings me back to that quote: Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it.
Well, I tell you what – I’ve been doing a lot of asking, and the biggest question you can ask yourself is “What do you want?”. The answer? While I may not know exactly what it is yet, I feel like I’m on my way.
