Mar Tezak
Where were you with your MINDSET WORK PRACTICE BEFORE the program?
My mindset work was really lacking, it was hard to keep consistent with it! I was already working on changing my language and inner dialogue, but there were beliefs I didn't realize I had to unlearn about myself and about being a creative.
Where were you with your CREATIVE PRACTICE BEFORE the program?
My creative practice was very on and off. I would have periods where I could spend a whole day glued to the screen or making notes and planning on my whiteboard, and once I hit a mindset block, I would stop for weeks, sometimes months. It felt very unbalanced.
Where were you with your CREATIVE PROJECT BEFORE the program?
Before the program, I just had this idea that I was chipping away at. For every two steps forward, I would let self-doubt get in the way. It was all in my head or scribbled down on papers. I would delete a lot of my work to redo it and that just made me forget about the progress I made.
What big MINDSET WORK transformation POST-PROGRAM did you experience?
I came in wanting to focus on my relationship to my project and my relationship to myself as a creative, and I definitely came out learning more than I expected! This program really helped me see myself as the person I am trying to become, and that is someone who is gentle with their process, kind to their inner critic, and compassionate about how they show up for themself. If I need to set better boundaries to prioritize my needs, I pivot. If I need to explore another aspect of creating in order to come back to my project, that's okay! I feel a lot more flexible with my perspective on this journey!
What big CREATIVE PRACTICE transformation POST-PROGRAM did you experience?
Oh my gosh the time blocking! I'm still moving through that, but setting more time to work on the project, even attending the writing lounge sessions and setting Google Meet writing sessions with friends has been an action I've been working on and that has led me to new ways of adding to my creative practice. Even going for a walk to the park is part of my creative practice now!
What big CREATIVE PROJECT transformation POST-PROGRAM did you experience?
After being clear about why I wanted to do this project, I found the confidence in it, and started to hire people to help me. Realizing that I didn't have to do everything alone made things feel so much more doable and although I still have some ways to go before I complete this, I now have support from people I trust to do things I don't want to do alone, and now I can enjoy the ride without imposter syndrome in the way! This program has really helped me get real with what I need and what I want and how I can best support that, couldn't thank you enough, Chelene!!
Melissa Sawatsky
In a few sentences, could you please describe the reason(s) that you decided to work with Breathing Space Creative Literary Studio?
I was in need of guidance to revive my writing practice and creative output in general. The workaround mindset, false beliefs/narratives, and time management were the key ingredients that convinced me this program would work where others failed.
Where were you with your MINDSET WORK PRACTICE BEFORE the program?
I meditated sometimes, but not in a consistent, intentional way. I certainly had never learned to “say no with love” or create a priorities alignment map before!
Where were you with your CREATIVE PRACTICE BEFORE the program?
Completely stalled. Rusty gears. Dusty poems.
Where were you with your CREATIVE PROJECT BEFORE the program?
I did not have one... the odd poem would come out in a fit of inspiration, but that was about it.
What big MINDSET WORK transformation POST-PROGRAM did you experience?
I feel as though I am finally starting to live with purpose and organize the busywork of life in a way that allows space in my days for creative exploration, output, and meaning.
What big CREATIVE PRACTICE transformation POST-PROGRAM did you experience?
It’s prioritized in my schedule to keep me accountable and honouring it. Even if I avoid my creative time on occasion, there it is in my schedule reminding me to show up again. GAME CHANGER.
Both the Thrive Coaching Program and Forever Writers Club take on the conundrum of being a creative person who is also an imperfect human with individual challenges and offers up a holistic approach to sustainable creativity. Practical tools, work on boundaries, and the value of rediscovering how to play and dream each have a role in the life-changing programs and workshops offered by BSC. Invest in yourself!
— Melissa Sawatsky