On Creating Your Own World

"I could not live in any of the worlds offered to me — the world of my parents, the world of war, the world of politics. I had to create a world of my own, like a climate, a country, an atmosphere in which I could breathe, reign, and recreate myself.... That, I believe, is the reason for every work of art." ― Anaïs Nin, The Diary of Anaïs Nin, Vol. 5: 1947-1955

This year is weird, right? Am I even allowed to say that??? For those who read my blog, you know I've been relatively quiet lately. I usually don’t struggle to find words. 2025 has just been different.

But like all other times in my life when I've been at a loss for words, I've gotten deeper and deeper into art. (At the present moment, that's taking the form of content creation.) Vintage costumes... outrageous wigs... scratchy, fake eyelashes... Characters who can say all the things I feel like I don't have permission to say. If nothing else, it's been wildly freeing.

So, what does it mean to lead yourself—or even a business—when none of the “offered” worlds make sense?

The answer, as best as I can tell, is: create a new one.

Lately, one word keeps playing in my head: Reimagine.

• Reimagine how to use my voice.

• Reimagine how I add value to clients.

• Reimagine what training and development can look and feel like.

One might even call it a ru, ru, ru, REMIX! (Please read this like a DJ. I'm begging you.)

And now I'm inviting you to join me here...

How might you reimagine your work in 2025?

Not just the tasks you do—but the way you do them. The why. The energy behind them.

I’ve been using these questions to guide my own reimagining. Maybe they’ll unlock something for you, too:

• What would your work look like if it felt more like you?

• What’s something you've wanted to say, try, or create... but haven't given yourself permission to yet?

• If you burned it all down (just hypothetically), what would you rebuild?

Whether you're leading a team, a business, or yourself through a tough season—maybe the most powerful move is to reimagine the atmosphere where you can breathe and lead fully.

Let that be your art.