That’s a wrap...
...Or is it a burrito? Clunky musings and (hopefully) helpful notes after a packed year.
Hello lovely souls. Well, this came around quickly didn’t it?! We’re running out of time to waffle needlessly so let’s dive into this packed burrito that some of us call 2023.
Can I be honest with you?
This time of year really overwhelms me. The wrap becomes a burrito as we cram every last social occasion, business venture and achievement into the final days of the year. I entered 2023 in a really bad headspace. Whenever I was asked my goals for the year I’d find myself being stand-offish, responding with “why do I have to set goals at the start of the year?”. Truth be told, this reaction was a defence mechanism as I felt very lost and directionless. Something wasn’t aligning. I started the year by applying for jobs I didn’t want, taking on freelance work that brought me no sense of joy or purpose, saying yes to everything and everyone but feeling more alone than ever. It took rejection, reflection and reframing to reground.
I distinctly remember the run (one of many this year) where I had a sudden shift. My head was all over the place and I started crying during it. I remember taking a route I didn’t know, trying to purposely get lost but somehow kept finding my way back to a path I recognised or knew. It almost felt like a metaphor for where I was in life - I was heading in the right direction but had to be open to taking some different paths. As soon as I got back home I made my goals for this year (despite it being a month or so later than everyone else). Each goal has been a topic that has seeped into my art this year and goes as follows:
These five vague pillars for my year have not only led me to the right people but shaped my art. To me there is a time and place for setting goals. That time and place is person specific. In layman’s terms - you do you and don’t rush the process.
The burrito
For some, my year might look like an overflowing burrito. To others it might look like a poorly stuffed one. If we’ve learnt anything from a year of over-thinking notes it’s we don’t compare here.
Many miles have been ran, many cries have been cried, many laughs have been laughed and many paint splodges have been splodged. You guys have really helped me through this year in ways you probably don’t even realise and I’m truly grateful for every ounce and being of your lovely soul.
The dreaded “where next?”
Shrugs. I’m honestly not sure.
Towards the end of this year I had a big focus on markets. There was a little mantra I’d tell myself to the lead up and day of a market, “Expectations much like comparison are the thief of joy. So just enjoy the process”. This mentality allowed me to walk in thinking “whatever happens, happens” and walk away thinking “it is what it is”. I cannot tell you how beneficial this was for me. Not only did I exceed any subconscious expectation (let’s be honest, it’s near impossible not to expect something) but it helped me make headspace to just be, a mindset I wouldn't mind integrating more in 2024.
If one thing is for certain - you guys are coming along with me.
Speak to ya soon Lovely Souls.
Chiara xo
Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year, Lovely Soul Extraordinaire!