Reflection is the Key to Action

More effective action arises from thoughtful reflection.

The practice of reflection is a potent tool that enables you to clearly understand what was successful, what wasn't, and what lessons can be drawn from it. Looking back on another year involves recognizing your growth, the lessons you've learned, and the challenges you've overcome through gratitude and self-evaluation.

We should consider our experiences and recognize the challenges of failure, as it is through failure that we learn and grow. Reflecting on these failures allows us to

celebrate the past year and helps us set our intentions for the upcoming new year.

Viewing the end of one year as the beginning of a new chapter in your creative business and personal life. You'll likely find it challenging to distinguish between your creative business and personal life, as you are crafting a lifestyle. This also means it's an excellent opportunity to express gratitude while feeling excited about the fresh start a new year offers. This is the season to reach out and thank those who have supported us both professionally and personally.

Reflecting on this year's achievements and setbacks allows you to begin planning for the next chapter—a new year with a fresh start, moving forward with renewed hopes and new goals.

As I reflect on the past year, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to everyone who reads my blog and shops on my website. Each of you has influenced my creative goals and motivates me as I enter the new year.

I'm incredibly grateful for the art groups I've been part of since 2019. Through them, I've made online friends, met some of you at retreats, and learned a lot about painting techniques. Being part of a community of like-minded artists is a blessing, and if you have the opportunity to join one, you'll gain immense knowledge, wisdom, and friendship. I feel fortunate to live in a time where I can learn from other artists who share their experiences. The world has opened up for us to explore and learn as much as we desire. It's a privilege to expand beyond our own thoughts and techniques by observing the methods of other artists and craftspeople.

After finishing the marketing activities and spending time with family during the holidays, there's a brief period available before setting your business goals for the new year. Use this time to reflect on your successes and failures, which can help you advance by creating new revenue streams, continuing to learn, developing new habits, and pushing yourself beyond your perceived limits.

What I'm working on

This year has certainly been one of introspection for me regarding both my business and family life. Having always enjoyed good health, I was unprepared for experiencing two significant health crises within a few months, which forced me to slow down, rebuild my physical strength, and consider how to manage my health moving forward. Naturally, this also led me to reassess how I approach the business aspect of my artwork.

In numerous ways, this has prompted me to pause and consider how I wish to proceed with my creative journey. Painting is an activity I need to keep practicing and mastering.

Moving on. Retired from Austin Fire Department and resigned as Chief of MidCounty Fire Dept.

I am dedicating more time to discovering the most effective techniques that suit me, which has led to increased self-study and focusing on my personal goals rather than following social media trends. I hadn't realized how much time I was investing in keeping up with social media and managing the business side of my art, which was hindering my painting goals. This is why reflection has significantly influenced my approach for the new year.

In terms of health, I'm doing really well. I'm nearly back to my usual self. Recovering from septic shock takes a bit of time, and I can still get tired easily, but overall, I'm doing fine.

My family is undergoing significant changes. I'm preparing to sell my small cottage. My son has retired from the Austin Fire Department and has taken a position as the new fire chief in a small town in the Texas Panhandle, about eight hours from our current location. My son and daughter-in-law are my only family here, and after the health challenges I've faced this year, I want to stay close to them. Therefore, I'm searching for another small

My DNL Laurie. Traded a career as a PT and works with dogs. She will probably continue her work with troubled dogs after the move.

home in this remote town. I'll be experiencing all four seasons again, something I haven't done in many years. I'm excited about this new adventure, although packing and moving is always a hassle. Sometimes I think God has a humorous side, as I didn't expect a move like this at this stage of my life. I'm eager to see how this will affect my lifestyle and my artwork.

As we progress toward Christmas and the New Year, I encourage you to take a moment to consider a small change you'd like to make in your life. Reflecting is beneficial for making adjustments in our lifestyle and in how we pursue our creative endeavors. I believe we should each adhere to our own personal standards rather than conforming to others'. Look back on this year to anchor yourself in what truly matters to you in your lifestyle and your creative business.

I hope you find a moment to reflect and dream. It can restore peace and joy in your life. You might uncover who you truly aspire to be.

On my website

available on my website

I would like to express my gratitude to everyone for supporting my website, including those who have made purchases and those who read my monthly blog. Your support means a lot to me. Additionally, a huge thank you goes out to everyone who supports me

on social media, particularly on Facebook. I understand how time-consuming it can be to engage with all the posts, so thank you very much.

I appreciate everyone for making my art business unforgettable. Wishing you all a happy holiday.

Inspirational Quote

"I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me."

Charles Dickens

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