5 Things You Need to Know to Create More Time & Money in Your Life

Featured in this week's video: Mala Dukhi has been a CPA for the last 20 years and is the owner of Smart Women Wise Money. She has been trained as a Coach by Dr. Martha Beck (Oprah Winfrey’s Life Coach). Mala loves helping people create financial freedom so they can live a life they love.

Carlee Myers (that's me!) is an expert at helping people who are unhappy at work use creativity to build a work life that is authentic to themselves. As a successful practicing artist, Carlee has worked with many individuals to help them gain clarity about their future through one-on-one coaching and creative workshops.

In preparation for the FREE ONLINE TRAINING that took place on June 13, 2017 on how to create more time and money for the things that you love, Mala Dukhi and I share money tips, stories & teasers surrounding one theme: How to Find Time & Money for The Things that Matter.

1: Discovering what we want to do and what we Love

Mala was coaching someone close to her. Someone who is an empath, intuitive and who doesn’t want to follow a ‘traditional’ life style. She has been depressed as she is trying to fit into the traditional mold of what we should ‘be’ or do’. She has discovered that her path is finding her joy. Ultimately, we’re here to be happy. We’re not here to be sad or live on a hamster wheel. Mala suggests that we need to commit to finding the things that we want to do and the things that we love. What should we be creating more time and money for? How can we do this?

2: Meditation

Until 10 years ago, Mala had no idea what mattered to her and what was joy for her in her life. The biggest thing she did for herself was to meditate. Once she committed to meditating, she got more in touch with herself and figured out what she really loved. What can give you a clue towards what you really love is remembering what you really loved as a kid. After being on the hamster wheel for a really long time, Mala used the meditation space to ground herself and find what brings her joy. Among many things, Mala discovered that she really loved to dance, all day, 24/7!

3. Does mediTation create more time and money?

In Mala’s experience, she was also able to identify things that no longer brought her pleasure. For example, she identified and stopped hanging out with certain friends that were draining her energy. She saved money in this way as she didn’t spend money or time on going out with them. Meditation can also help you identify what is right in your life. It’s a morning ritual not to give up for anything.

In my venture to ‘Get on the island and Burn the Boat’, I dedicated 30 minutes a day towards meditation. One of the things that helped create that time to meditate is realizing all the things that I didn’t have to do.  Before meditation I would sit down and think of all the people I need to call or email and all the things that I ‘have to do’. But then during meditation, I would realize that ‘Oh that project probably doesn’t even align with me to begin with’.

A lot of people say that they don’t have time for meditating, that’s when you need to meditate more: 30 minutes as opposed to 5 minutes a day.

4. You already have time and money in your life!

You already have time and money in your life, you’re just not focused on it right now. Because you’re busy on the hamster wheel, you can’t yet see it. You may just need help in seeing it by peeling away the layers so you can see it. You already have it, we’ll help you access it and be aware of it during the training.

5. You already have the time to start creating space and being true to what you want.

We’ll help you figure out what you want. What your heart is telling you? Sometimes we get clogged up, so we’ll help you de-clog your system. We will talk about how to get into action, how to make the life and build the life that you want and have the time and money to do what you want. Whether you want a vacation, to spend more time with family, get into the studio more – we’ll guide you towards discovering that.

CLICK HERE to get your FREE GIFT from Carlee and to receive updates on future training!

One door closes, another one opens - 3 Ways to Find More Time & Money for the Things that Matter

I have realized that I have an emotional connection with food - it gives me a sense of feeling included when eating and drinking with other people. It’s a type of social bonding that makes me feel connected to others. So when I found out that I shouldn’t be eating gluten, it was a huge slap in the face – I really couldn’t connect to not being able to eat and share delicious food with my friends. But this morning, during my visualization meditation, what came to me was ‘When one door closes, another opens’. Sounds cliché I know, but let me unpack a bit more juice around this simple powerful quote (Gluten free juice that is).

1: Shift your perspective from disappointed to excitement

When I found out that I couldn't eat gluten for the next 6 months I felt disappointed. I was out last night with friends and while all my friends were ordering amazing delicious food, I ate Garlic Spinach. Yep. Say no more. But during my visualization this morning, I realized that, ‘yeah I’m disappointed that I can’t eat certain foods, but imagine all the amazing foods that I’ll get to try instead! What got me excited is that now I get to explore and experience new foods that I would never tried otherwise. I decided that I am going to try one new food item per week and explore how to cook it and what I can mix it with. My perspective shifted from disappointment to excitement because I have never tried this before. It was like a new creative channel opened up.

2: Understand that we get squeezed out of situations to find alignment with our heart & soul

If there is something that you feel really disappointed about in life – the ending of a relationship, dietary restrictions, maybe you just got fired or left a job - whatever you feel is closing in your life and squeezing you out, take a moment to step back and to see that deep down you may really want these changes. We won’t get pushed out of our comfort zone if we are in full alignment with our highest calling. If we are in alignment with our purpose and heart (knowing who we are and what we want in life), we won’t need to be squeezed out of anything. So Instead of being dragged kicking and screaming, say ‘this is my future and I am really excited about it and excited about all these new opportunities’. See it as a game about making life fun and, heck, even making adulting fun!

3: Create more space to live your truth

Change your perspective on the things that feel like a struggle, the things that feel like they are doors closing, and look at the other side. See the potential adventure and creativity ahead. I could not see the other side of this diet, but when I did, it became an exciting potential for adventure – like travelling, but with food! Every time you let go of something, you create space to attract the things that align with you: what is going to make you happy and fulfilled. Everyone wants more time or more money so that you can spend time doing what matters most to you. What do you want more time and money for – kids, nature, art, travel…Creating space will lead you in the direction of having more of what you want from life.

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PS: I referenced a webinar that has since passed in my video (dang, it you JUST missed it :P ), but don't worry, Mala has a gift for those of you who missed our free training. Visit wisewomensmartmoney.com to grab your free gift today.

5 Fun & Easy Tips for Letting Go of Money Guilt

Anne Tipton helps business owners get their financial, legal and wealth building matters running so that they can handle their business. She holds a wealth of knowledge about money and finances. Carlee Myers, founder of A Piece of Positivity, and Anne Tipton talk Money Guilt, Tips on how to overcome the guilt and The Champagne Test, a great tool you can use for FREE.

TIP 1: Create more time and money by letting go money guilt.

Money guilt is when we feel guilty about spending money. In essence it’s pointless because if we spend money with a specific emotion, we’re basically going to receive that feeling back. If I buy food with a sense of guilt, I am going to feel guilty while eating it – where’s the enjoyment in that? In that case, there’s really no point in treating yourself.

TIP 2: Test what you want, to see if you really want it.

The main purpose of The Champagne Test is to spend money and not feel guilty about it. The Champagne test is about testing if whether what you want is REALLY what you want. You might have this idea that you want a convertible.  The the 16 year old inside of you might be the only one wanting the convertible. So why not test it out (renting or literally test driving one) instead of waiting until you’re having a midlife crisis, buying the convertible and then hating it?  You don’t know if you really want that convertible until you actually experience it…

TIP 3: Dip your toe in the water

Dipping your toe in the water is about taking the risks that could help you get a taste for what you think you want and to see how much you want it. It’s investing time and possibly a fraction of money to give yourself the opportunity to get a little taste of what you think you want.  For example, instead of feeling bogged down by wanting to travel internationally, take a train ride to a different city and spend a few nights there and get a taste and feel for a different place. The Champagne Test is about asking yourself: Do you want beer, wine or champagne? Looking at a purchase….sometimes you want the champagne (the high end purchase), but sometimes a nice cold beer can do the trick! Sometimes that beer will satisfy the itch. Sometimes you want the middle option, which is the wine. Try start with beer and work your way up to champagne.

TIP 4: Have a little faith.

Carlee has an urge to travel. One day she decided to invest in a smaller trip by taking a train to Stanford. This experience led her to sign up to a business coaching program, which helped her to build her business. She also met Anne in the process AND ended up winning a trip to LA! So a small 1 hour trip lead her towards a trip across the country. Take that leap of faith because you never know where it might lead you!

TIP 5: Let go of past mistakes with money.

Write down all of your mistakes with debt and where it came from, light it on fire and VOILA!, it disappears. This is a very powerful gesture of letting go.

Letting go of money guilt can be synonymous with skydiving. The scariest part about skydiving is when you’re in the plane, but you’re safe. With money guilt you are safe but all you want to do is to jump out. When holding onto money guilt we’re not actually serving ourselves. We’re stuck. So practice letting of that guilt everyday so that you can enjoy your time and your money.

To get more tips from Anne Tipton, click here to get your FREE DOWNLOAD of The Champagne Test.

Get on the Island and Burn the Boat: A Simple Solution For a Fulfilling Life

After spending an entire weekend in LA filled with inspiring people, what I took away from the weekend besides all the follow your dreams jazz was: if you really want to be this person that you dream of everyday you need to get on the island and burn the boat! So ask yourself, what do you want more of, what do you want to do more of? 

Here's how I got onto the island and burned the boat. I stepped fully into what I felt called to do. Listen to your heart. Let your ego do the ‘Yeah, but…’ babble but step into your heart. What is your heart saying? Your heart might be saying, ‘I want to be a dancer’ and the ego might say, ‘Yeah, but you haven’t danced in 5 years’. Or ‘I want to have more money’, ‘Yeah, but money is the root of all evil’. The point is to hear the ‘Yeah, but…’ and say screw it while stepping into your heart (what you really want).

To REALLY get onto your island you have to write a contract with yourself and if you don’t do what is in your contract, you have to give yourself a punishment. Ironic right, since I own a company called A Piece of Positivity Studios and I am telling you to do something not so positive, but I am totally serious! This contract and punishment helped me step into the person that I want to be. My contract is literally a signed piece of paper with a list of my goals and deadlines – I am taking it seriously!

Before I left for L.A, I wanted to meditate every morning before my day started. I was already waking up at 5:30 am for yoga so waking up even earlier sounded crazy, but it was what my heart was calling for, so I decided that it was not negotiable along with a few other things that I have been wanting to do including: dancing in park, uploading videos for you to see, meditating every morning for 30 minutes, etc. So, you know what it is that you want to step more into AND you intuitively know what you punishment could be. Whatever comes up and you think to yourself ‘Oh, I don’t want to do that, don’t want to even verbalize that… don’t want anyone to know that THAT would or could even be a punishment for me because I really don’t want to do that’ - That should be your punishment. Here is my punishment: If I do not wake up every single morning and meditate for 30 minutes… I have to text  my ex boyfriend and tell them that I want him back! Nobody wants that right?! It could be anything though. One wonderful woman I know, who has really beautiful hair (she could totally be a model for TRESemmé or something...it's crazy), decided that if she doesn’t record her podcast every Tuesday and Thursday at 1 pm her punishment is to shave her head. This is the type of punishment I am talking about, I am not even kidding! Hence I have not missed a day of meditation and I have made it more than two weeks.

Let’s not forget the reward though! If I achieve all of this success what’s the craziest most amazing reward I can think of? For me currently, if I achieve all of this: meditate every single morning for 30 minutes the whole way through my 90 days and upload my vulnerable videos, if I dance in the park at least once, dance intuitively at least once a week and step into my calling…I will be going to Germany. That is my reward. In a nutshell I am getting on the island, burning the boat and then flying off to Germany.

The purpose of getting onto the island and burning the boat is to step into the life that seems scary and difficult.  I can tell you that once you’re in it, it becomes easier - my 30 minute meditation has started to become a habit. I end up getting to sleep earlier because I know I have to wake up earlier and my days go so much better when I am doing the things that my heart is feeling called to do. I fall more in love with myself when I am fulfilling my hearts desires.

I encourage you to answer these questions for yourself: What are you feeling called to do? What are you waking up in the morning for and what do you feel like doing more of? What do you hear yourself saying you wish more for? I wish I had more time to spend in my studio or I wish I had more time or money for myself. Listen to your heart, get on that island and burn that boat!

Want more helpful figuring out exactly what your heart wants? I'd love to see you at VISUALIZE, my 3 hour virtual retreat on June 24th. Click here for more details. 

Four Questions to Ask Yourself to Make Positive Change Stick

There comes a time when all of us feel as if we are in need of a change. Unfortunately, not many people are able to make positive changes stick. This isn’t because that it’s necessarily hard, it’s because we simply don’t have the right tools to do so. We need to get rid of the bullshit in our lives to make room for what it is that will bring that spark back. Are you ready to make these changes that you need to thrive? Here’s four questions that you should ask yourself before you start this journey in order to figure out how to make the changes that you want, need and are desperately longing for.

How can I make this change attainable and not feel like it's far-fetched?

Often times when we try to make a change and it doesn’t work, we think that it was because it wasn’t attainable. While this may be true sometimes, it isn’t always. If there is a change that you are really wanting to make, think about how you can make it reachable and not far-fetched. If you’ve always dreamed of getting in shape, what’s standing in your way? Getting up early and going to the gym in the morning isn’t difficult, but by staying up too late binging on TV, it does make it more difficult. Perhaps go to bed an hour earlier and see if it makes it any easier to stick to working out in the mornings.

What is distracting me from this change? Can I rid of this distraction?

Our lives are all full of distractions. Sometimes these distractions can keep us from making changes. For instance, if you are looking to be more productive at work, you might find that you are having trouble because your phone is the culprit. Simply put your phone away when you are at work and make a commitment to only check it once every 1-2 hours. You might be amazed to find how much more you are able to get done just by putting the phone away.

How can I create more time for <insert the change you want to make here>?

We all have the same 24 hours in each day. If you admire all the things that someone is able to do, sit down with them and ask them how they accomplish it all. If your friend is able to cook healthy meals for her family every night, but you are constantly eating takeout, it might not just be because you are too busy to cook. You might find that you just aren’t prepared properly to make a great meal like your friend is. This may mean that you have to cut out some of your social media time in order to meal plan or prep something to go in the crock-pot.

What feels heavy? What feels light?

You’ll be more motivated to make positive changes if it’s something that feels good. It's easier to chase after the light rather than the darkness. Let what feels light guide you. If you are looking for a little bit of inspiration or just something to give you a jump-start, the 75 day transformation challenge can be just what you are looking for. You will learn a lot of practical advice that you can use to create space in your life and stay motivated throughout this process.

While making changes in your life can be overwhelming at times, the sooner you start the process, the sooner you can create a new spark in your life and a world of new possibilities! In order for changes to stick, you first need to make room for them and refocus your energy on what really matters. Get rid of the bad stuff so that you can allow room for the good stuff!

Transformation Challenge: Day 2 on Ambition and Overwhelm

When you don't finish the to do list created from day one of the challenge and you're feeling kind of guilty about it. It's amazing to me how your idea of future success can change so much in 24 hours.

Exhale the Bullsh*t

Isn't it time to exhale the bullsh*t and inhale the good shit that is an amazing, fulfilling life? Sign up to attend feeling salty on April 25th: www.apopstudios.com/feelingsalty

Happy Hustler Lauren Ramer

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOU.

I am graduate of Moore College Design and a Motion Graphics Designer at Aardvark Video Works. I live in a cute, tiny house in Glendora, NJ with the love of my life and my dog Smooch.

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR HUSTLE AND YOUR HAPPINESS JOURNEY.

I remember telling myself exactly a year ago (during senior thesis, four part-time jobs, and endless college stress) that it would all get easier and work itself out eventually. And believe it or not, IT DID!

A year later and officially a college graduate, everything started to fall into place. Before graduation, I was a full-time student working four part-time jobs. I was a painting instructor, a wedding videographer, an art department assistant at a stationery company, and a graphic artist at PHL17. I was CONSTANTLY busy... but I knew that it would eventually help me towards my career. One motto that I always tell myself is "jump on EVERY opportunity" because you never know where it could take you. So anyways, after being so unbelievably busy, before I knew it I was sitting at graduation and college was over. Even though it was a bit scary not knowing what was to come, I knew that if I kept pushing and trying to find opportunity ... eventually, I would start my career.

A few months went by and I was still working my four jobs until I soon found myself at in interview for a Motion Graphics interview. Before I knew it, I had my first full-time job - and I was so incredibly excited. Not only did all that hard work pay off, but it landed me at an absolutely amazing company. I am now a Motion Graphics Designer at Aardvark Video Works where I combine my knowledge of animation, videography, editing, graphic design, and more to produce commercials and animations. I've gotten to work on some incredible projects ranging from Toyota and Fiat spots, to local bakery commercials, to corporate web videos.  And strangely enough, all those part time jobs I worked gave me the crucial knowledge I needed, that I use at my job now. I wouldn't be where I am if I didn't take the initiative in college to pursue numerous internships, jobs, and opportunities. 

WHAT DO YOU DO TO DE-STRESS AFTER OR DURING A LONG, STRESSFUL DAY?

After a long day, I like to simply come home, cook dinner, and snuggle on the couch with my dog and watch movies. Or if I really need an escape, I will get lost in some knitting. 

WHERE DO YOU GO FOR INSPIRATION?

I find inspiration absolutely everywhere.. but it usually consists of movies. If I need inspiration, I'll put on a weird independent film or throw on one of my favorites like Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings. 

WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING OR LISTENING TO (PODCASTS, BOOKS, BLOGS, ETC.)?

Recently, the only time I listen to music is on my 1.5 hour commute to work each way. At that time I just listen to the same few artists that get me through my day. The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Die Antwoord, Miley Cyrus, and more. As for reading, since JK Rowling's "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" came out ... and the hype over the new "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" film, I've been re-reading the Harry Potter series getting all excited! 

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU'D GIVE TO SOMEONE JUST STARTING THEIR HAPPY HUSTLE JOURNEY?

I said this already but it's so important! *Jump on EVERY opportunity - you never know where it's going to take you. 

I would never be where I am now if I didn't hop on every opportunity I came across. Not all opportunities are the most alluring or fun... but it can always lead to something more. Even if something presents itself to you that you are unsure of... TRY IT... the worst thing that happens is that you learn from it. 

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE QUOTES OR WORDS TO LIVE BY?

"Divide and Conquer" - Words that my mom alway said to me when I got stressed. Divide up your workload and conquer what you can. Take it step by step and before you know it, you will have conquered. This phrase basically got me through college. 

IN ONE WORD, SUM UP YOUR LIFE AS A HAPPY HUSTLER.

Delightful

 

WHAT ARE THE THREE CORE VALUES OF YOUR HUSTLE AND HOW DO THOSE VALUES RELATE TO YOUR HAPPINESS?

Three core values I stand by are:

1. Determination

2. Enjoyment

3. Prioritization

These three things are very valuable to me in life. I find that a proper balance of determination and enjoyment will lead to a happy and successful life. You need to have goals, and you need to pursue them... but you also want to make sure that you are enjoying yourself and life. Even if you are the most determined person in the world, if you are not enjoying yourself, it's not worth it. That brings me to my next value: prioritize. Having a full-time job, a house, a family, hobbies, and whatever else you can throw into that mix... can make you feel like you don't have time to do anything anymore. But you need to get your priorities situated so they fit into your balance of determination and enjoyment. Balance it out so you are spending some of your day working towards your goals, and other times doing things you enjoy.. this will lead to feeling accomplished and happy in all areas of your life. 

CONNECT WITH LAUREN

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Three Things You Should Be Doing to Sell More Art

Feeling a bit lost when it comes to making your practice marketable? Intimidated by pricing and marketing? We’ve broken down some of our best advice to help you get on the track to success.

1) Focus.

Do you ever feel like you’re channeling Dug in Up!? You’re focused, you’re building a relationship talking about why you were hiding under someone’s porch, and all of the sudden SQUIRREL. Well, maybe not the porch part, but it’s easy to let exciting new possibilities pull us from what we’ve already got in the works.

Don’t get distracted. Bring an idea to completion to the point that it is sellable. Otherwise, you’re wasting one of your most valuable resources: your time. Pick the product or project that you think has the most promise, will sell the best, or that you’re the most passionate about. Spend 90 days bringing that project to completion, meaning that it is marketable. Got another idea in the meanwhile? Write it down. Save it for the next 90 days. That squirrel will still be there.

2) Price with confidence.

• Affirm yourself. Remind yourself that what you have to sell is valuable and can make a difference. Take time each day to affirm your work, your process, and what you have to offer to the world. Heck, say it out loud! “This is great! I am powerful! This can make someone’s life better!” It’s a little act that will make a big difference in the long run.
• Determine your pricing in advance of trying to sell your work. It may help to create a price list based on material and scale. That way, you don’t have to deal with individually pricing works, and your customers easily will know your price ranges.

3) Market and sell

• No closets allowed. People in your life should know what you’re doing and that it is for sale. And nothing should be languishing in a closet. You are not a Monsters, Inc. monster. Your success will never come from creeping.
• Create strong social media relationships. Pick one or two social media platforms where your target market is. Don’t spread yourself too thin. It’s better to update one platform consistently than four or five when you finally feel you have the energy to deal with all of them.

Know your customer for that platform. Market directly to them. It helps to incorporate the personal and the professional. Include your face in some photos and in videos to help build your brand. Get customers invested in who you are as a person and a practitioner, so that they think of you when they need your product.

Feeling overwhelmed by all this advice? Start with step 1 and go from there. After all, if Up! Taught us anything, it’s that you can’t launch a house into the sky without blowing up a lot of balloons. Take this one balloon at a time. You’ve got this!

5 Steps to Writing an Award-winning Grant Proposal

STEP 1. Talk to your friends...

Talk to your friends, the grant administrators (if allowed) and like-minded artists about your project. This will help you figure out if the project is practical and do-able.

STEP 2. Map out the entire project

Map out the entire project and imagine everything that would happen and anything you would possibly need to make it happen.
 

1. Make a timeline: Try to be realistic about how long it will take you to do the project, and make sure that you are not cutting the timing too close in relation to the application deadline and funding decisions.
2. Make a budget: start researching the cost of materials and seeking out people   who can help you, with advice, other funds or in-kind contributions. Make sure your budget adds up!

Step 3. Write a project description that is jargon-free

Write a project description that is jargon-free and concisely and clearly states:

1. What you want to do?
2. How you will do it?
3. What you need to get it done?
4. Who is your audience?
5. When will it be finished?
6. How grateful you would be for the organization’s help?

Step 4. Read the guidelines more than once

Read the guidelines more than once and pay close attention to required formatting, language and any specific requests the grantors may have (for supporting material, budgets, even describing your project in certain language). Then ask a friend to read it with you.

 Step 5. Submit your request by the deadline!
 

In conclusion: Be clear, be sensible, do your research, apply by the deadline, be gracious and ask for feedback if you are turned down. Don’t let paperwork kill your joy for the work you want to do.  Stay true to yourself but try to be flexible if you can!

Article written by Susan Cohen, Development Professional

Using Voldemort’s Name: Five Questions to Get You on Track with Living Your Best Life

Need a straightforward route to figuring out what you want in life? Tune into your inner compass using these five questions. (We recommend asking yourself these daily and recording the answers. It gives you an easy record for seeing how you’ve progressed and a way to hold yourself accountable once you’ve identified what’s holding you back!)

What would I do if I wasn’t afraid?

Start a company, take up a new hobby, rekindle an old friendship, take a yoga class, try sushi. Think big, but also think small! Fear holds us back in so many ways. Living your best life means tackling those fears one by one, no matter the size. If fear  is keeping you from pursuing something that would make you happy, it is worthwhile to spend some time addressing it.

What am I actually afraid of?

Your fear may be driven by more abstract ideas: failure, disappointment, embarrassment, feeling silly in your yoga class trying to master Downward Facing Dog. Or if may be concrete, like not making enough money or losing a relationship. Naming your fear gives you power over it, just like using Voldemort’s name in Harry Potter. Once you know what you’re afraid of, you can start working towards counteracting that fear.

What do you want today?

Community, financial stability, a satisfying relationship, confidence? Get at the heart of what you’re seeking. You may not reach what you want today, but acknowledging that you want it right now is powerful. It lets you keep that desire burning as you take steps towards attaining what you want.

What can you start doing today?

What’s a step you can take to counteracting that fear? Reevaluate the possibility of solo entrepreneurship, sign up for a class, ask for mentoring advice from a friend. How can you actively work towards not letting that fear hold you back this very day?

What can you stop doing today?

This is the hardest question. Stopping things we’re accustomed to doing is hard. Whether that means giving up one morning each week of hitting the snooze button to hit sunrise yoga or stopping pricing your work so low it’s not turning a profit, or ending a relationship that’s just not going anywhere…this won’t be easy. But you can do it. You can fight your own Voldemorts in your life by doing the hard work of pruning things in your life that don’t fit with your vision for your happiness.

You’ve got this.

Happy Hustler Akeem S. Roberts

Akeem S. Roberts (aka AkeemTeam)

Tell us a little bit about you.

My name is Akeem S. Roberts! I tend to go by the nickname AkeemTeam. When I'm not illustrating, animating, or designing I'm usually watching my favorite tv shows or exploring what this city has to offer with my girlfriend and two cats.

Tell us a little bit about your hustle and your happiness journey.

I guess my journey really began my sophomore year of college. I was always known for being an artist in my family but for some reason when I started college I decided that I wanted to be and engineer.

It wasn’t until two sober years later did I really wake up and start chasing my dreams. Regardless of how much money society says you can make from illustration. It was from that moment when, I believe, my hustle and happiness really started. 

What do you do to de-stress after or during a long, stressful day?

After a long stressful day I like to wine down by sketching, watching anime, and cuddling with my girlfriend and two cats. 

Where do you go for inspiration?

If I ever need to get inspired I tend to just unplug from technology on the way to and from work. New York is filled with inspiration. Not from the constant Ads that are on the subways and billboards but mainly just from people watching on the subway. Another way to get inspired is to learn something new. It allows your brain to constantly think about something you never would have thought of if left to your on devices. 

What are you currently reading or listening to (podcast, books, blogs, etc.)?

Mainly I usually listen to art podcast such as “Make it then tell everybody” or “Artist Decoded” but I also like listen to shows such as “Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me” or “Invisbilia”. The same thing applies with my reading I like to make sure I read different kinds of subject matter. I’m currently reading “The Writer’s Diet” and “The Watchmaker of Filigree Street”.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone just starting their happy hustle journey?

Never stop drawing and to never stop learning.

What are some of your favorite quotes or words to live by?

“Finished Not Perfect”

In one word, sum up your life as a Happy Hustler.

Rewarding

What are the three core values of your hustle and how do those values relate to your happiness?

Humor, I tend to look at the world and think.. “wouldn’t be funny if…” I feel like that relates to most of my work. 

Risk. No risk, no reward. Simple as that. 

Timing, I use to always try and finish every project in one day when I was younger. It wasn’t until i realized that art takes time did my hustle really excel.

                            Akeem S. Roberts

 

 

 

Connect with Akeem

Instagram // Twitter // Email

It’s not Magic (It’s a Niche!)

You know those people in high school who knew what they wanted to do in life and seemed magically on the right path to doing it? They had the skills, the internships, the connections?

And you looked at them and thought “How on earth do you have all this so together?”

It’s not magic. It’s a niche! And you can find yours, too!

Your niche is an intersection of your skills, interests, and opportunities. If you made a Venn diagram, it would be the bit in the middle where these three things overlap. In fact, just do that! Give yourself a chance to visualize your possibilities and to think about what a happy and successful life would look like to you as you fill in each circle.

We’ll break it down for you to help you get started:

Skills

What are you good at? Include interpersonal skills, physical skills, and technical skills.

Power point? Sure. Writing? Awesome. Skateboarding? Swell. Listening to people? Heck yes! Teaching others? Add it! Whatever you know you’re good at, put it in there. There’s no being vain here. Be honest.

Interests

What makes you feel inspired? The environment, fitness, creativity, empowering others, kayaking, quiet time, snakes, pottery, travel, reading? What do you want to make happen in your community? In the world? In your free time or in your daydreaming, where do you find yourself drawn?

Opportunities

This may feel hard. It’s strange to conceive of the world around you as a benefit. What spaces, funding, or networks do you have access to? What opportunities do you feel capable of making for yourself? What wonders does the internet hold that could help you?

Where these three things intersect is your niche!

Your niche could look like all kinds of things! Maybe that’s working for a company that aligns with your values and lets you use your skills. Maybe your niche means starting a venture that will let you work for yourself on projects about which you’re passionate.

But the first step is finding it.

Take some time, and do some thinking (and some Venn diagramming!). Your future is worth it.

Five Tips for Curating an Art Exhibition

Guest blogger, Alexandra Mosoeanu, is the founder and curator of Plays & Players Gallery, a contemporary gallery located within Plays & Players Theatre in Philadelphia, PA. The gallery curates exhibitions that explore content within each playwright. In addition to managing Plays & Players Gallery, Alexandra is a mixed media artist and educator. Her work explores the concept of creativity as it pertains to nature and the human spirit.

1. Know your Audience

The most important and essential aspect to curating a successful show is to be aware of who will be engaging with the space. Do your research on the space’s location and the surrounding people. These are the people who will most likely engage with the space.

For example Plays & Players Gallery is located inside of Plays & Players Theatre. The audience for a theatre of this type, typically are not familiar with lingo used in the visual art world. After simplifying my message and ridding of art lingo, I developed an art talk that would be engaging this particular audience.

 

2. Always have a backup plan

Curating a group show on your own is a lot of work so having a few hands on deck to help you is important. It’s always helpful to have people help with tasks such as picking up flyers, hanging artwork, etc., but what happens when a volunteer promises to do something and doesn’t? The first thing you do not do is panic or throw the other person under the bus. The best thing to do at this moment is to already have had a backup plan. Even with the help from others, you’ll have have some setbacks. As the curator of a show, you should be prepared for those hurdles if you want the exhibition to be successful and positively received.

 

3. Get Organized

When I’m not not gathering artwork from artists or printing flyers, I’m thinking of the floor plan and opening reception horderves...Multitasking is something you will be doing a lot of so knowing how to keep it all under control is key. Multitasking means time management and the most visual way of getting organized with your time is to develop a plan. I use a daily planner to organize the exhibition timeline, highlight important dates and meetings

It can get overwhelming but with cell phone reminders, To Do lists and a planning tool that works for you anything is possible. There is just something so satisfying about crossing things off and knowing you’ve made progress.

 

4. Stay Open Minded

Are you a perfectionist? If so, I hope you are familiar with deep breathing meditation because you’ll probably need to do a lot of it. When curating a show,especially a group show you will find that sometimes the original blueprint will need to change. Redesigning the layout of the blueprint and rehanging is common. Staying open minded about the layout and other key parts of the exhibition is key to being successful (and keeping your sanity).

For example, for our most recent show at Plays & Players Gallery Staples did not complete the flyers in time for the marketing timeline of our opening reception, so I was I quick on my feet. I printed copies of the flyers in house instead. Sure it wasn’t glossy and super professional but having an empty room is a lot worse.
 

 

5.  Rules and Regulations

Lastly, knowing your rights as a curator and knowing the rights of the artists you represent is a really important. Has the artist signed a contract? What is the commission price? Do you know what you are responsible for once the artist drops off their artwork?

Curators know all the ins and outs of the legal aspects to having work in a space. Get informed about contracts and other legal documentation that pertain to the building you’re working within.

Join Alexandra Mosoeanu at Plays & Players Gallery on February 11 from 2pm-5pm to see her newest exhibition, DOOMS DAY. DOOMS DAY is a group exhibition featuring eight Philadelphia-based artists : Sara Cocchi, Caitlin Tzchanz, Alexander Shanks, Alexander Trosko, Matthew Vacante, S.E. Tyler, Katherine Roll & Alexandra Mosoeanu.The exhibition unravels and explores eacg artist’s way of coping with our impending doom. They answer the question: "You have one day left to do live. What do you do?"

CALL FOR ARTISTS: Plays & Players Gallery is curating a show for Women’s Empowerment Month in March. If you or someone you know are a self-identified woman artist and are interested in showing work, please send 3-4 examples of your art to playsandplayersgallery@gmail.com.

Kissing “The Man” Goodbye with Math

Want to work for yourself? Solo entrepreneurship is a fantastic way to use your skills and passions. But the bottom line is that a lot of us relegate that work to the side while still continuing to work for companies. Whether you’re waiting tables by day and painting by night, or trying to squeeze in teaching fitness classes around your nine-to-five, it’s like leading a double life.

Plus, you end up exhausted and stretched thin! The work you’re actually passionate about suffers.

So, how do you make being a solo-preneur sustainable? First, figure out how much you need to make.

Whether you’re a spreadsheet person or want to scrawl a list and calculate on your phone, take a few minutes and figure out how much you need to survive for a month.

Be sure to include rent, mortgage, utilities, groceries, cell phone, internet, childcare, student loans, insurance, and car payments/transportation. Now add some luxury money. Be a little generous with yourself. Dining out, nights on the town with friends, traveling, film screenings, shopping-include the things that inspire you and that make you extra happy!

Now, based on what products and services you currently have on offer, figure out how many of your typical product you’d have to sell to survive the month. Is it a lot (say, more than 15?)? Then rethink your strategy.

Spend time creating higher end, higher value products. Value yourself and your time. Look at expanding your relationship based services-workshops, coaching, etc. Offer an art class, one-on-one workshops, custom designs, and offer them at a price that not only honors your efforts but will let you stop leading that double life.

Just take that first step. Take the time to do the math, and get yourself on the path to escaping the nine to five!

Stop Keeping How Great You are a Secret From Yourself

It’s hard to get far in life both personally and professionally without confidence. We’re expected to be comfortable on interviews and first dates, to showcase how great we are in our words and our actions. And it’s hard. How many times has someone said “list your strengths” and you’ve found your mind reeling, or tried to shrink back into a wall at a party or meeting? It reveals a lack of confidence, simply because we’ve never taken the time to up our confidence game.

The first step is to stop keeping how great you are a secret from yourself. It’s easy to be humble with ourselves and dismiss our successes and our talents. It’s hard to give ourselves permission to celebrate ourselves. If we don’t know how great we are, how can we expect ourselves to walk into situations and show other people?

Taking the time to mentally and physically shore up your confidence tool belt is worth your time. Here are two tools to make you feel more confident than ever.

KNOW YOUR STRENGTHS

Take twenty minutes, sit down, and think about how awesome you are. And then get out a pen and make a list of your strengths both personally and professionally. We’re not conditioned to take time for celebrating ourselves. Be a rebel. Do it. And then put that list somewhere you will see it all the time. We recommend by your mirror so it’s in your mind as you are getting ready or next to where you keep your keys so it’s the last thing you see as you’re headed out the door.

Next time you go to an interview, to update your LinkedIn, or to write the coolest dating profile ever, you’re covered. You’ve got words to talk about yourself. But beyond that, seeing these words consistently will constantly remind you that you are fantastic, just as you are, right now.

PRACTICE BODY LANGUAGE

Stand in front of the mirror and pose like a superhero for two minutes. A Harvard study revealed that people who stood in power poses for as little as two minutes exude more confidence afterwards. Channel your inner Wonder Woman, Squirrel Girl, or Iron Man. Be ridiculous, but enjoy that feeling of empowerment. It may feel silly at first, but the silliness will fade into a sense of empowerment.

Now that your super-confidence is amped up, show yourself in the mirror what a confident non-superhero mode you would stand like. Create an equally confident alter ego that doesn’t need to show off your bullet resistant attire. Think Clark Kent prepping for an interview, or Tony Stark grocery shopping. Is your posture open or closed? How do you hold your hands? What makes you feel comfortable, approachable, and ready to take on the world?

Then, go be a person. Pick one interaction a day and use this body language. Our bet is that latte you confidently ordered will taste all the sweeter and that the conversation with your coworker will feel better than ever.

Not feeling super confident? Try putting on your confident body language anyway. It will change your mood, tricking your brain into confidence mode!  Access those super powers.

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, wait…it’s YOU being your fantastic, confident self!

Happy Hustler PMu

Name: PMu

About:

I am a Brighton based doodler and I believe that art is for everyone.  It doesn't have to be 'worthy' in order to be worth sharing.  Creative practices are a core part of the human experience, a vital part of connecting us to each other and the world around us.

Tell us a little bit about your hustle and your happiness journey.

I have always been a doodler.  My parents divorced when I was very young and I think drawing was a really practical way of keeping me and my sister sat in one place for more than five minutes when either of my parents were feeling overwhelmed.  I grew up reading manga, graphic novels and watching various forms of animation and have always loved how, even when stylized, drawn faces can carry a lot of emotion.

At school I struggled with art classes.  I didn't have a great teacher and I lost a lot of enjoyment for expressing myself through drawing.  I didn't understand the purpose of copying other people's art when there were all these pictures were in my head trying to get out.  I ended up carrying on my studies in drama, but all the while was secretly doodling away in notebooks.

This year I experienced a period of depression and anxiety, during this time I found myself drawing more and more and developed a distinct style of line work.  Once I had found my voice and style I found it incredibly easy to access that creative part of me.  Encouraged by this newly discovered flow I shared my drawings with friends and family.  It was their encouragement that lead me to set up Daily Doodle, and since then I have found a really talented and authentic community through the blog.

What do you do to de-stress after or during a long, stressful day?

Through work I have developed a very steadying mindfulness practice with guidance from Joel and Michelle Levey.  It has been pivotal in helping me accept my depression and recognize the changing nature of stress.  When I have a really bad day I find a mindful walk with the dog or some sitting practice incredibly centering.  It might not change how I feel, but it definitely helps me recognize that my identity isn't defined by stress or anxiety.

More recently I have been incorporating my drawing as a kind of embodiment practice which has been really satisfying.  I highly recommend to anyone who meditates to take something they do every day and incorporate it into your practice.  It makes even the most normal things seem extraordinary.

Where do you go for inspiration?

I think a common mistake when you're seeking inspiration is that you need to find the perfect place.  Somewhere that's peaceful, or full of beauty.  If you cultivate the right mindset then inspiration will come to you.  For example, another interpretation of the word respect is to look again (re-return, spect-see).  How often do you look again at the things you see everyday?  That kind of inspiration is right there for you to see it, you just have to know how to change the way you interpret what is there.

What are you currently reading or listening to (podcasts, books, blogs, etc.)?

I am a massive sci-fi nerd, so it's fair to say that at any given moment I have a copy of one of Asimov or Ray Bradbury's stories next to my bed.  At the moment I am rereading Dune by Frank Herbert.  My father gave me a copy of his when I was about 15, and I have had a love affair with the series ever since.  Last year the front cover finally gave up the ghost, so for my birthday I got a new copy with amazing deco-style cover art, so I could fall in love all over again.

I also tend to watch a lot of Star Trek on TV and have just finished watching this seasons Ru Paul's Drag Race All Stars.  I love the amazing level of artistry and creativity in the Drag community, and unlike a lot of reality TV, Drag Race has managed to honor its competitors without taking itself too seriously.  It's a thin line to walk and they do it with such irreverence that I defy anyone who likes to dress up, to watch it and not become an obsessed super fan.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone just starting their happy hustle journey?

Invest time in finding your voice.  Without it hustling online can feel a lot like shouting into a void.  If you manage to find your voice and your style, then it becomes more like singing.  You might be performing a solo, but at least you will be enjoying the sound.

What are some of your favorite quotes or words to live by?

"Seek freedom and become captive of your desires, seek discipline and find your liberty." Frank Herbert

In one word, sum up your life as a Happy Hustler.

Interesting.

What are the three core values of your hustle and how do those values relate to your happiness?

1.  Find something enjoyable and learn to do it well.  See it as a discipline.  Set yourself small goals which carry you towards yours ultimate aim  in steps rather than leaps.  That way creative block is fleeting and often distant and hard work is fulfilling rather than draining.

2.  Seek out feedback and listen to it non-judgmentally, it's the only way to grow.

3.  Find your people and soak up what they have to teach you.  Remember the African proverb - 'If you want to go quickly go alone.  If you want to go far go together.'  Africa is the largest continent on Earth, I trust whoever came up with that proverb knew how to travel far.

Connect with PMu:

Website // Facebook // Twitter // Email

Happy Hustler Caitlin Tschanz

I am a Philly native whose studio and writing practices are inspired by exploring the city and meeting diverse people through chance encounters. When not uploading my adventures to social media, I can be found painting, writing poetry and traveling the globe.

My practice now seeks to blur the line between life and art— with my most recent work exploring this binary through the study and documentation of the world and city that I live in. I pose questions to the viewer, and use the work as a vehicle to meditate on the possible answers: How do I capture the intangible and experiential sensation of living in such a vibrant city? What of my experience and interaction with other people is perception, and what of it is real?

    Through words and pictures, I trace the histories of the environments that I find myself in and tell stories using the language of paint to convey the density of these experiences to the viewer.

Tell us a little bit about your hustle and your happiness journey.

Hmm, where to begin? I've had a very interesting life, so for me, my happiness really does stem from accepting the fact that as a young artist my life is constantly evolving and changing, which has carried over into my art practice and vice versa. Once I realized this, my work changed immensely because I was no longer afraid to take risks.

You know, I had a chip on my shoulder for a long time about not being that experienced in the art world (in terms of discourse/practice, etc.) so getting into art school  and graduating with a  degree in Fine Arts last year was a huge deal. I think in a big way it proved to my younger self that having a career and professional art practice is a totally valid and tangible life path to have. It just took a lot of tears and work in the studio to get here!

What do you do to de-stress after or during a long, stressful day?

I'm not big into watching tv, but if I'm super stressed I like to have a cup of tea and troll Netflix-- there are some interesting documentaries and shows to watch, but some personal favorites are Arrested Development and The Inbetweeners. Anything to get my mind off what's bothering me and to have a few laughs.

I also like to look through my sketchbook and write ideas down for a book I'm writing about my life thus far. Sometimes it's just a few lines that sound interesting, and other times a whole chapter of poetry spills out. I love getting into that meditative headspace where the work comes through me; it's very exciting to look back on days or weeks later to see where my mind was.

Where do you go for inspiration?

Literally everywhere. I walk around the city a lot in my free time, and I love to document the visual non-sequiturs that catch my eye. In fact, I'd say that about 95% of my Instagram posts are me documenting the things that I'm attracted to: a sound, a color, a pattern, different textures, the way light reflects off a wall.

I just got back from two weeks in Europe, and honestly, my favorite moments were when I could exist in each unique environment and realize that they are glaringly different and completely the same. It was quite a beautiful process to see happen-- decay exists everywhere and so does life.

What are you currently reading or listening to (podcasts, books, blogs, etc.)?

I listen to so much that it's impossible to categorize, but recent favorites are CRO and pretty much anything on the radio. In the studio my tastes change depending on my mood, so sometimes it's RHCP and other days it's Ottmar Liebert. Whatever boosts creativity will do!

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone just starting their happy hustle journey?

Trust yourself, trust yourself, trust yourself. It's important to have a strong circle of supporters around you who can give you valuable feedback about your work, but at the end of the day you have to be able to know yourself and your process enough to know when a work is complete or captures your ideas in the best way possible.

No one but you holds that answer.

What are some of your favorite quotes or words to live by?

The two that I think about a lot in the studio are from some of my old professors from my time at Moore College of Art & Design. I had one of my favorites of all time, Moe Brooker, tell me flat out to my face sophomore year that I had a lot of work to do in order to really become an abstract painter. It stung, but I was ready to learn.

His works, much like Kandinsky, deal a lot with the transmutation of music into painting, and one day he mentioned the difference between impulse and improvisation. I didn't quite understand it at first, but once I got it, it stayed with me. Impulse is pulling any color off the palette and applying it arbitrarily on the canvas, but improvisation is knowing the direction the work is going and allowing the freedom of play to come into the work; it's making an informed decisions for the betterment of the piece. It blew my mind.

Another of my profs, Robert Goodman told me in a critique once that there is a big difference between Inspiration and content. As with Moe, it took me awhile to understand what he meant, but once I got it my studio practice totally evolved. It forced me to really consider the work from all angles and to take a more analytical approach to the way that I speak about and view my art.

In one word, sum up your life as a Happy Hustler.

BIG.

What are the three core values of your hustle and how do those values relate to your happiness?

Reflection, patience, and risk-taking.

I think most of my best ideas and successful paintings have come from quiet reflection on a bus or train or listening to music. It took me a really long time to trust my inner voice and to work with my inner critic instead of against it, so anytime that I have a moment to quietly think about how I can better my work I write it down.

Taking risks is a bit more difficult because I work crazy hours that don't give me the best time frame for making work, so every time that I do make a new piece, I try really hard to push myself out of my comfort zone and to keep growing. Some of my favorite pieces have been a one-off painting that were completely spontaneous!

If I really think about it, I think all three values are what have allowed me to merge my art and life practice, and I don't see them as being inherently different anymore. Taking my time to understand both who I am as a person, and as an painter has made my life so much richer. I think I've always seen my life and encounters with people as strange or different, but through all of my creative outlets I've learned to live my life so much more freely. Art, honestly, is why I exist.

Connect with Caitlin

Website // Facebook // Instagram // Tumblr

How to Cease The Shitty Day

                  We’ve all been there. The day where anything that can go wrong, has gone wrong, and all we are left with is a gaping mouth and slew of words that would make a sailor blush. We’ve all been guilty of letting the shitty day turn into way more than it needs to be, right? I mean we are talking about the worst of days, your horrible-no-good-terrible-very-awful-bad-day. Sometimes it seems like there’s no way to flip your switch back into a manageable level of goodness, right? Well, because we love you and love self-love, we’ve put together some suggestions to help you not just live through your shitty day, but make it your best shitty day.

So what do you do?

Focus on HOW you react, not WHAT you are reacting to. Shitty things happen. You’re finances are low, your car breaks down, your bus is late, you’re broken up with, your switching apartments...everything can add up to a big level of shitty. A lot of that is beyond our control, right? Exactly. So focusing on how we react instead allows us to make sure we aren’t causing more shittyness by our reactivity than good.

Turn the shitty day into the day that provided you with an opportunity to grow. To show yourself self love. To not let yourself down by being reactive instead of growing from your experience. Cease the shitty day, and turn it into the day that YOU overcame by focusing on the positive.

So how do you cease the shitty day?

Reverse your thoughts.

When you catch yourself traveling down a negative path, catch it, and reverse the thought into something positive. Be cognizant of what is going on in your mind, and help yourself flip that thought around. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, look around at what you do.

Focus on your breathing.

Counting your breaths and focus on slowing your breathing patterns can be one of the best ways to refocus and regroup. It’s also a really easy thing to practice, and since your breathing every minute of every day, you are already really great at it.

Practice some good old fashioned self love.

If you are a person who finds relaxation in the depths of a bubble bath while binge-watching The Walking Dead, do it. Maybe sorting through your mail and organizing is where you find some solace. Take time to remind yourself how amazing you are, and how valuable you are.

Make a thankful list.

Sometimes we get so wrapped up in the shitty day, we can’t step outside to reflect. Make a list of things you are thankful for. It’s easy, takes little time, and can be the ticket you need to hop on the positivity express.

Get outside!

It’s really simple to get physically stuck in a rut, too. Take a walk around the block and see the good happening around you. Not only is it really simple, but fresh air does a body good in way more ways than just gaining perspective.

What works when you’re having a shitty day? We want to know what works for you, so get in touch!