5 lessons learned from writing story work
how creative projects foster growth and build courage
Hi, friends. Reviving these mid-week pep talks. These posts are shorter, to the point, and designed to offer a quick, digestible dose of encouragement to help you through the week.
Writing Story Work changed me.
I’ve written other books, and each one was transformative in its own way, but Story Work felt different. It is the culmination of years of uncertainty, soul searching, spiritual evolution, and plain old hard work.
I cringe when I see ads promising: “Write your book in a weekend!” (Do y’all get those ads in your algorithm?!) No shade to anyone’s hustle, but it reminds me that for some, writing a book is just a means to an end. For me, the process itself was the reward…watching myself dig deep and break through my perceived limitations.
Yes, the book is a finished product that I’m proud of. But the process is what changed my life.
I think we miss the point when we dismiss our creative callings because we are afraid the effort won’t be worth it.
Our creative projects foster growth, build courage, and give us wisdom and clarity that we can carry into every aspect of our lives.
Here are five life lessons that I learned (or relearned in a new way) while writing Story Work.
1 | The compass matters more than the clock.
Long-term success isn’t about measuring speed or results, it’s about orienting toward what feels true and aligned.
2 | When you evolve, your relationships shift.
Not everyone (including old versions of yourself) can come with you. There is grief involved with this, but you have to let go as you grow.
3 | Growth on the inside fuels progress on the outside.
When you do the inner work, projects flow, visions manifest, and new levels unfold naturally without force.
4 | One of the most overlooked parts of growth is integration.
At some point, you’re no longer chasing the life you want. You’re learning how to hold it, sustain it, and embody it.
5 | Fear will always be there.
But it doesn’t belong in the driver’s seat. Let your values take the wheel, and trust you’ll arrive where you need to be.
What lessons have you learned from your own creative projects and explorations?
Take this with you:
✨Creativity is a compass that helps us find our way.
My books, workshops, and coaching programs are all rooted in that truth. If you’re looking for guidance, inspiration, or a space to explore your own voice and vision, I invite you to check them out.
If you want to explore working 1x1 with me to use creative exploration as a compass—whether it’s writing for personal and professional clarity or to bring a creative calling to life—sign up for my offerings newsletter to receive all communications about my new programs.
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Hello! This summer, I’m trying something new with my Substack: I’ll be sending mid-week pep talks. These posts will be shorter, more to the point, and designed to offer a quick, digestible dose of en…
These lessons really landed for me. And this line — "I think we miss the point when we dismiss our creative callings because we are afraid the effort won’t be worth it." I've been there so many times, dismissing what I really want to do because I'm worried I'll end up wasting my time. Forgetting that creative projects really do "foster growth, build courage, and give us wisdom and clarity that we can carry into every aspect of our lives."
It's the journey, not always the destination!
Whew, lesson number 2 is one that life never adequately prepared me for, just said “oh, by the way, here!”