One of the best books I have ever read, is the E-Myth by Michael Gerber. There are so many amazing lessons in this book, but I would say the one that stuck with me the most is the concept of working ‘on’ your business vs. ‘in’ it. As entrepreneurs, it’s so easy to get caught up in the cycle of doing a million little things instead of taking a step back and observing the bigger picture. There’s a balance between the two that will fluctuate, but to grow it’s really important to have a vision of where you want to go.
I find the biggest challenge for creating plans, visions and goals is making the time to do it! It’s so easy to get sucked into the Make It vortex because there are always a ton of small little details that need to be taken care of. Especially at this time of year when the shows are coming up so quickly. It’s easy to spend all my time ‘in’ Make It instead of ‘on’ Make It.
A few weeks ago, my dear friend and former studio mate Jamie Smith invited me to come out to one of her collage nights. She recently moved into a gorgeous space on Main Street the she calls Thrive Studio, and has been hosting various events. At first I was hesitant because I have SO much going on, but I thought it would be really fun to cut pretty pictures out of magazines and catch up with my buddy!
Jamie is an artist and former school teacher, so she is really good at coming up with great ideas to help people tap into their creativity. At collage night, there were 10 of us who were all given a list of 5 different things that needed to be in our collage. Because this type of project can go on for hours, we were only give 90 mins.
My list was:
1. Something you like the look of.
2. Something that you can put in your home.
3. Something you cannot live without.
4. Something you want to accomplish this year.
5. Something you want more of in your life.
Flipping through countless magazines was delightful at first, but then it became a somewhat stressful because I had to find the 5 items on my list! I get overwhelmed when there’s an abundance of choices. It forced me to make quick decisions based on my first instinct and response. This is a great exercise because it helps you to focus on your gut reaction which I now know to be very damn accurate! I also like to refer to my gut feeling as full body yes or full body no. If it’s a maybe that means it’s usually always a no…it took me a loooong time to figure this one out.
Once I had my collection of magazine clippings, I arranged them on the white piece of heavy stock paper. It was interesting to see how different formations evoked different emotions and feelings. When I had them all settled, it was time to commit with the glue stick! The process of committing my images to the paper felt empowering and I started to feel excited about my collage.
After Jamie used her teacher voice to instruct us to put down the glue sticks, it was time to share our piece with the rest of the group. I was proud to explain how the picture of Oprah represented my desire to speak more and the door symbolized transformation and growth…something I can’t live without. The silver key says LOVE on it which I am actively attracting more of 🙂
Even though I felt overwhelmed, stressed and anxious before collage night, the process of taking a step back and considering what I want out of my life and business made me feel calm and peaceful. I felt that I was able to tap into the guiding force of my life instead of feeling like I have to do a millions things all at once. It helped me to dream and experience the magic that happens when I see a visual representation of my desires.
If you live in Vancouver, I would highly suggest you check out what Jamie is up to. Her studio is amazing and she has magazines, scissors, and glue sticks galore! Otherwise, you can recreate this experience at home with your friends or on your own.
I’m sure you have heard many-o-times the magical effects of vision boards. I think it’s because it help you focus on what you truly want in life instead of just living on autopilot. It’s mega easy to put this kinda stuff off until someday, but why not just try scheduling it in like you would the dentist. The only side effect is your dreams may come true!
Pssst! Make It Edmonton (Nov 26-29) and Vancouver (Dec 3-6) are just around the corner! Have you bought your early bird tickets yet?? Do it!
