Brave. Does one need bravery to embark on something new? As the new year stretches ahead do I have what it takes to traverse it? I mean, the annual tradition of making arms-outstretched, sky's-the-limit, Resolutions could be interpreted as an act of bravery. A statement to anyone listening that you were trying something new. Getting a grip. Setting out on the uncharted path. I don't really know if making those ground-breaking resolutions at this point will be worth my energy, but starting new habits or learning new skills are always doable...on a (slightly) smaller scale. So what's the plan? I'm glad you asked! The first step is to set aside a space where all the creative thoughts can progress. Talk about bravery. It is beyond difficult to share the messy bits of the creative process! Anyone else out there that can relate? My creative space has a sewing machine in one corner, with a library of patterns; a typewriter (Yes, an ACTUAL typewriter) in another corner surrounded by books of poetry, a Thesaurus, and a Dictionary or two; a couple comfy chairs with baskets of fabric and yarn for winter knitting and weaving; and a sprawling space for paints, inks, brushes, and canvas. It's a glorious space! But how do I take my parts and pieces to the next level? I'm glad you asked! The next step is to develop a love for learning. Inspiration can be found in a multitude of places: a concert, a cookbook, the library, a museum, through the lens of a camera, listening to music, or chatting with a friend. This time around I chose the library and the first text I'm tackling is entitled "Be Brave" by Annie F. Downs. Fits right in with my frame of mind! Annie set me straight right away on page one, "Brave people don't stop hearing the whispers of fear. They hear the whispers but take action anyway". And that's what I'm doing. Being brave enough to take action, even a small action, to move forward into an unknown. My "To-Try" list is pretty long right now: sewing, writing, painting, upcycling, cooking, aromatherapy, poetry, rug-weaving and reading. Maybe I'll try something new each month this year. We'll see. What's on your list? Feel free to share your progress - Let's be brave together!