It is what it is. That's a common little phrase we like to toss around. It's a handy line used to help us cope with unpleasantries, helps us deal with the unexpected in life.

It gets scary when we use it to justify things we shouldn't be accepting so easily...like settling into a safe ho-hum lifestyle or doing mediocre work. We often use it as an excuse to give up and not try harder. You know how it goes...just accept whatever it is and move on.

Yikes! Sound the alarm! That line just got worn out.

The good thing is, in life, we have options. We can choose how we react, how we respond...how we problem solve situations. Yes, every single one of us. We can choose so much more than settling for the mundane or whatever gets thrown our way. Let's create our way instead.

Personally, being a designer, we are creative visual problem solvers. I'm trained and encouraged to think through diverse perspectives and situations. It's not only my job but an excellent philosophy to live by. It's a lifestyle. There's always more than one solution to every problem. Sometimes you have to wrestle with ideas, put in the work and enjoy the process.

Just remember everyone won't always be on board with you. Anytime you create or show people a different way of doing things, you'll get resistance...and usually that means you're doing something right. Don't let others sway your thinking. Go head first making the most of situations.

I've learned that MOST of the time, it just isn't what it is...it is what you make it.

You Are In Control Of Your Time

A week or so ago, I was going outside to relax and enjoy the sun. Someone very special to me stressfully said they wished they had time to do such things and they needed more hours in the day. I was so saddened by that statement but understood it completely. I used to let phrases like that spill out of my mouth as well...I used to believe it as truth. But luckily the truth is, each person controls how they spend their time and what they value. Some people really believe that needing more time is just a fact of life...but don't buy into that lie! Prioritizing your time is key.

Simplify Your Life 

I broke free after having a string of meaningless jobs which consumed my days. At the time, I thought these jobs were just life & that's what others around me told me. (wrong) I thought I had to keep showing up each day because "that's just what you do" (wrong) and especially because it was paying for the lifestyle I had created.

I knew there was more to living. The lifestyle I was aiming for started shifting. Wanting things became unnecessary when all I wanted was to take charge of my life and how I got to use my time.  So then I started to prioritize my time and live simpler. The less things you want, the less time you spend stressed out wanting. Note, the key is wanting less and realizing what is / isn't needed in life. If your focus is the pursuit of things, it will be a never ending chase and that has no value nor does it lead to personal growth.

Design A Life You Love

After making some major changes in life, I now spend my time doing what I love... creating...and I do so on my own schedule and my own terms. I work on various projects from my jewelry/accessory line to graphic design work. I can pick clients I align with. I'm happy to work with them and they are excited to work with me. It's a beautiful thing. I'm in control of my creative work, it's up to me to make it fulfilling. Even better I'm seeking a simpler life all together. I moved to a simpler and smaller space. I got rid of so much that I owned and now I'm surrounded by less clutter. That kind of beauty and freedom is far greater than anything.

There becomes a time when you're deep in meaningless routine, whether you're stressed or just lacking personal growth, you need to ask yourself: what do I spend the majority of my time doing? Does it align with my values? Is it necessary? What do I enjoy most? Dig deep and then take action.
Regardless of where you're at, you can simplify your life & create a life you love.

Tees & skirts are my wardrobe staple this Summer. Like in a previous post, I've been going for the funky / glitzy statement skirt and a casual t-shirt...it all balances out. This top is a Forever21 find on Vinted. Typically I like to leave phrase t-shirts for the youngsters to wear but this was oh-so-fabulous. This is such a great simple spiritual message on how to live life and it serves as a reminder on how to live each day.
Hat: ASOS  ///  Sunglasses: Spitfire (Buy from Nordstrom)  ///  Necklace: (buy here!)  ///  Cardigan: Karmaloop  ///  Clutch: The Limited (Buy here!)  Tee: Forever21 (bought on Vinted)  ///  Sequin Mini Skirt: Karmaloop  ///  Cutout Shoes: Qupid

I'm a big fan of chalkboard walls...that's why I have one on every floor of my house...3! This might seem a little overboard but I think unity throughout a home is important and this was a simple and inexpensive way to add in a common element. I love being able to personalize my walls with my terrible handwritting...but more importantly typography that has meaning.

(The top quote is from Lucky Ones by Lecrae)