What does it mean to choose yourself and your creative life, especially when the people around you might not understand that choice. In this first audio newsletter of Nourishing Creativity, I’m reflecting on the willingness it takes to say yes your ideas, projects, and creative dreams.

Inspired by My Brilliant Career, a new series on Netflix, which is also a book. Without giving you spoilers, through line of this series is choosing yourself. When you choose yourself, it can feel radical and it can also come with trade-offs which I am reading about in Emma Grede’s book, Start With Yourself: A New Vision for Work & Life.

Over the past year, I’ve supported clients who are creating while navigating grief, illness, caregiving, and major life transitions. And yet, they’re still creating Substack publications, recording podcasts, writing books, sharing their ideas, and thinking about the legacy they want to leave behind.

I’m experiencing this in my own creative practice too. While cleaning out a closet, I found a letter I wrote to myself at the end of 2023 that included a reminder to create my creative planner. Three years later, that project is tapping me on the shoulder like my podcast guest, Luna Battalia said.

If there’s a book, podcast, Substack, or idea that’s asking you to co-create with this season, this is your invitation to say yes. And if you think this is just for others or that you don’t have the insert: Time, energy, or money. Sit with the question of willingness in the last newsletter.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform while you cook, clean, or create.

Leave a comment on Substack or connect with me on Instagram @chefcarlacontreras

xo Carla

PS: Upgrade to Founding Member on Substack to book your Mini-Content Audit: Get unstuck, and take aligned action. I can’t wait to hear about what you are creating! Need more support work with me here.

Disclaimer: Always seek the counsel of a qualified medical practitioner or other healthcare provider for an individual consultation before making any significant changes to your health, lifestyle, or to answer questions about specific medical conditions. If you are driving or doing an activity that needs your attention, save the energy practices for later. This podcast is for entertainment and information purposes only. Note: Some of these are affiliate links. I receive a small percentage of the sales. I appreciate your support of my small Latina & women owned business.