Self Known

What first comes to mind when someone says they are "creative?" Do you think of an artist with a paintbrush? An author writing a book? Do you think of a jewelry maker or a make-up artist? A graphic or video game designer? Perhaps a lifestyle blogger? I'll be honest, I've caught myself defining someone "creative" as anyone who has an aesthetic Instagram feed. But when you really think about it, there's so much more to it than that. Creativity comes in many different styles. For instance, in my father, creativity is in what he does around the house. How he presents gifts to my mother, buys special treats for us kids and always  hugs us before he leaves. In my mother, it's her baked goods and secret outings that almost always seem to involve food. It's the way she goes the extra mile to make sure each one of her children is prepared for the world. And it's not limited to just that. Creativity is in everything everyone doe

My mother says that people serve as an example - of what to be and what not to be. These are traits I've observed - in myself and others - and used to decide what I want not to be. Before I begin I'd like to acknowledge the fact that yes, we're all human. Yes, everyone imperfect. Yes, everyone has rough days where they show parts of themselves that may not be entirely true. But I believe everything can be used as a lesson to help you and me become better at this crazy thing called Life. :) I don't want to be... Passionate to the point where I don't bother to stop and listen to the people around me and what their perspectives are. Uncouth. Afraid to be silly. Afraid to laugh. Afraid to talk. So focused on myself that everything people say to me is taken personally. The one who has to make everything about themselves. Holding on to the past for so long that it's a literal weight I carry around with me and use as a crutch to dictate my life. Unb

( an upgraded post ) 1. Blogs There are so many insanely awesome and inspiring blogs out there. There are blogs about writing, blogs about creative lifestyles, and even blogs about on blogs. It's truly amazing how accessible new creators are. Action: Surf the web for blogs centered around your favorite things - Passions, hobbies, or newfound interests. 2. Books From fiction to non-fiction, books are entryways into new worlds and knowledge. You'll find inspiration and enjoy a good story as well. Delve into the plot while developing attachments to the main characters. If the book is well written, this should come easily. Action: Find  at least  one book you think is interesting. My favorites include Everything, Everything  by Nicola Yoon and Fangirl  by Rainbow Rowell. :) 3. Quotes Quotes are like motivational strips of words that fit easily in one's "inspirational pocket". Recently I've been collecting the ones that speak to me, writing them

A fear that haunts me: I am letting my glory days pass me by as moments straddled between Netflix and self-doubt. It seems I so often lack the courage to gather my tools and build something out of myself. I am unhappy, but content. To live among the shadows hurts, but this initial pain makes it worth avoiding the sting of the light. Something I've come to believe is the fact that some people are born with It. The It - charisma, talent, humor, attraction - whatever the positive quality, it combines with one part charm and another part luck. And a star is born. But this notion is tragic. And, admittedly, quite sad. Especially on the days when I count myself outside the circle of those who possess It. The truth of the matter is not that a handful have It, but that It is contained within 100% of all living, breathing cases. To varied, unlocked degrees. Sometime after my muse passes and the words empty themselves out, I will long for It. Emotional beings such as myself seem

This is a transparent monthly reflection where I take the time to look back, view my progress and make adjustments. Monthly Project: Finish online classes. GUYS. I am so flipping thankful I'M DONE. *throws confetti and wiggles for dayz* Taking classes online has been super rewarding, but I am so ready to move on and focus on something else. Something bigger . I'm thinking MORE writing, MORE reading and MORE creating! Health → Exercise 3 days/week, drink 65oz. water/day Exercise: 7/14 (50%) Notes: Aha, aha, aha................. whoops. I don't know what happened here. For some reason, I just couldn't get myself to exercise. I always had this excuse that there's something "better" or more pressing that needed to be done. But now that summer is HERE, I'd really like to up the intensity and focus on improving my body and upping my energy level. Water: 30/31 (97%) Notes: This is the first month this year that I've been drinking