The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Self-doubt has been and continues to be my biggest challenge. It comes to me in a range of forms: imposter syndrome, the ‘I’d rather just read my book’ thoughts and in various negative whispers. I imagined it would have got easier. I sometimes wonder if it’s just me, but then I have a catch up with others and find I am not alone. To all of us wonderful businesswoman doing good and tripping over self-doubt I say, “Self-doubt, I now gently show you the door.”
I encourage us to gather with others who are also working in their own business ideas. Meeting for coffee and catch ups or even joining Facebook groups is encouraging. We need others.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I see my korero has been focused on the mediation side of my business. This would be because at the moment, it is mediation which pays the bills. Not putting pressure on my creativity to pay the bills has been awesome. Funnily enough though, this would be one of the cons: making time for creativity when the bills need to be paid. Ah the balancing of it all!
I make children’s books, write short stories, paint and collage in my studio and I am available for commissions. You can see my art for sale on my website.
I’ve published one children’s book: The Rascally Stars, which is a picture book for 0-5-year olds. The printed version sold out, but you can download a copy from my website’s shop. I have two books about to be published: Finding Grandpa’s Song and Make a Splash.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
Projects! Make a Splash has been born from my need to respond to youth suicide. One of my daughters had two serious suicide attempts, and I responded to this painful experience with my art.
Make a Splash is a hands-on art journal for young people. A place to stick stuff, write, paint and print. Each chapter has a creative focus to everyday issues: relationships, self-talk, bullying and cultivating the real you. This art journal has been edited and currently I am working on the design to publish soon.
Finding Grandpa’s Song is an educational children’s picture book about dementia. I was commissioned to do the illustrations and worked with Grace Wyatt on the words for Music Moves Me Trust. Finding Grandpa’s Song is at print stage and will be published soon.
I hope to be able to share more of what I have learned and done with mediation and creativity: the two focuses of my work life. You are very welcome to contact me through my website with any queries at all.
Arohanui Michelle Peat x
Visit Michelle Peat’s website to find out more and join her communities on Facebook and Instagram.
