From Vision to Reality: Designing a Soulful 100-Day Journal with Rachel Gilbertson

When Rachel Gilbertson embarked on the journey of transforming her 100-Day Soul Retrieval experience by blending watercolors and reflections into a journal, the entire Hezzie Mae author family buzzed with excitement.

Having personally relished two similar endeavors alongside local artist Sarah Seidelmann, I recognized the inherent value of this artistic pursuit—not just for myself but also for others.

When I imagined a bookshelf adorned with the diverse 100-day experiences of individuals, each offering its own unique essence, I couldn’t help but see the potential to continue the creative journey many had embarked upon together.

Rachel’s boldness and creativity were evident from the start. She assembled her artwork and acknowledged its profound worth and that it held insight that needed to be shared. Her decision to publish her work was truly commendable.

Soon after we discussed logistics, including hiring an interior designer to translate the beauty of Rachel’s watercolors and reflections onto paper, a small voice whispered to me, “You would love to design her book.“

More than relishing the colorful design work, I deeply desired to join Rachel intimately in this creative endeavor. I couldn’t bear the thought of delegating this vision to someone else.

Rachel’s trust and flexibility allowed me to embark on this playful design journey, ready to step back if necessary.

Admittedly, it was a labor-intensive process, but the joy derived from collaborating with Rachel made every moment worthwhile – especially when she validated that the project was unfolding in a manner that honored her book.

Here’s what I gleaned from designing “Aligned Enchantment” alongside author Rachel Gilbertson:

1. Patience Prevails:

Both Rachel’s and my patience proved invaluable. By avoiding the trap of “shoulds” and “coulds,” we maintained a stress-free energy flow. As long as Rachel was content, I found contentment, too.

In the end, our meticulous approach only extended the timeline by a few weeks, satisfying us both.

2. Soulful Collaboration:

Sharing creative energy with another soul is a delightful experience. Our suggestions and revisions flowed effortlessly, infused with a keen eye for design.

Our communication was characterized by transparency, honesty, and nurturing support, creating a shared, energetic space—our “Aligned Enchantment” bubble.

This embodies what Hezzie Mae aims to offer all its authors – a publishing journey where everyone feels seen, heard, validated, supported, and empowered.

3. Trust in Intuition:

Although passing the project to one of my trusted interior designers would have been the easy route, I’m grateful I followed my intuition.

While it may have expedited the process, it would have deprived us of invaluable interactions and collaborative brainstorming with the author.

Trusting my intuitive nudge not only enhanced the project but also revealed my passion for design, which I intend to nurture and develop further.

4. Priority of Creativity:

The experience has propelled my own vision to create a 100-day Soul Retrieval journey higher on my priority list. I’m excited to share this space with fellow journeyers or creative souls eager to publish outside the confines of traditional novels.

The possibilities are boundless, provided we invest the time and effort to nurture our creativity.

In essence, Rachel’s journey has not only enriched her life but also ignited a newfound passion within me, inspiring a deeper commitment to fostering creativity and soulful connection through publishing endeavors.

As we reflect on Rachel’s transformative journey and my immersion in the design process, each of us can explore our creative potential.

We possess unique strengths and passions waiting to be unleashed, capable of enriching our lives and those around us.

Consider this: What if you embarked on your own 100-day Creative Mission?

Imagine dedicating yourself to a daily practice that nurtures your creative spirit and fosters personal growth. Whether writing, painting, cooking, or any other form of expression, this mission is an opportunity to delve deep into your passions and cultivate your expertise.

What are you already an expert at, or what do you aspire to master in the future? Perhaps you have a knack for storytelling, a talent for photography, or a flair for design.

Whatever it may be, envision how dedicating yourself to this craft for 100 days could not only enhance your skills but also allow you to share your knowledge with the world, making it a better place.

The world yearns for guidance, enlightenment, inspiration, and motivation. By sharing a part of your creative experience, you can uplift and inspire others on their journey of self-discovery and growth.

Set aside any doubts or fears and allow yourself to dream big.

Whether you embark on this mission alone or invite others to join you, know that you have the potential to make a meaningful impact and contribute to a world hungry for creativity and connection.

Are you ready to embark on your 100-Day Creative Mission?

The journey awaits, filled with endless possibilities and promises of personal growth and fulfillment.

Read similar posts about creativity and authoring at Hezzie Mae Blog.

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I am a writer, educator, indie-publisher, artist, and trauma survivor. Visit HezzieMae.com for a sea change paradigm shift in author mentoring, publishing & living.

Purchase Aligned Enchantment by Rachel Gilbertson (March 2024).

Purchase Tumbled: A Memoir of Perseverance, Personal Growth & Magical Transformation by Heather Wilde (Feb 2023).

Purchase Pig Tales & Popcorn: Patricia’s Memoir by Heather Wilde and Pat Passero (July 2023).

Purchase Suck Less at Love: She Said, He Said Advice on Relationships by Cyndi Lewis (Jan 2024).