Hello beautiful beans! I really enjoyed this project and finding new ways to journal. :) I was going though some rough patches this year and my best friend suggested to start a writing practice. I didn't think it would work because I've always been a "terrible journaler". I would let myself get discouraged if I missed a day, or be upset if my writing or doodle did not "look" the way I wanted. What I didn't realize is I was constantly striving for an unattainable level of perfection.

My perspective on this changed the day I picked up a copy of "Wreck This Journal" by Keri Smith. It really helped me let loose and allow myself to make mistakes- which are important aspects of creative practice. This is arguably the most important lesson for any artist/writer to learn. Because once I let go of my perfectionist views, I became much better at my craft. I loved your points about "light perfectionism on fire". I often preach that message to my peers whenever they're in a creative rut. Perfection kills creativity and that's something I wish I learned a long time ago. This workshop really helped me expand beyond my usual writing prompts. I'm still new to "traditional journaling" as far as writing for myself, so please enjoy my words. <3

Writing for Self-Discovery - image 1 - student project This exercise was obviously very eye opening. I've been out of work the last two months and have been trying to look for a new job. I realized that I was wasting WAY too much time throughout the day. Despite that, I don't regret adding Skillshare to my regimen. It has helped me stay creative and focused. This is something I definitely want to keep doing while still making time for what's important.

Writing for Self-Discovery - image 2 - student project Although it's been a rough year, I'd consider myself a very happy bean! Most refer to me as the "sunshine friend". I love simple things. I get a lot of inspiration from exploring outside or going to museums. I'm very fortunate to live in a place that has a lot of art culture- so there's always something new to explore. Elisabeth the best friend. <3 She's been with me though it all- and I couldn't be more grateful to have her in my life. <3 Star gazing is what keeps me grounded. If I'm ever worried I'll stare at the moon a bit and I'll usually regain perspective and know everything will be okay. <3

Writing for Self-Discovery - image 3 - student project I really liked this exercise. Growing up my family put a lot of stock on looks and weight loss. I remember being self conscious about my weight for the first time at 9 years old. But the thing is, I was perfectly healthy then- and still am now. That's all that should matter. I had to unlearn this notion that you can't start "living" or "dress a certain way" until you are at a goal weight. Why can't I love who I am now? Why can't I just focus on self care and eating a balanced diet rather than focusing on a number on a scale. I will always want to better myself but it doesn't change that I love my body for what it is now. That's the most important thing I learned when it comes to "society's" idea of success.

Writing for Self-Discovery - image 4 - student project

I am 22 years old (almost 23) and decided to wrote to my "21 year old self." (which I realized I meant to write to my 20 year old self. Whoops!) I had just gotten my AA in Graphic Design. I was so confident and excited for my life ahead. The biggest take away was the difference in how I approached "looking for work". At 20 I was eager, confident, (and a little desperate) to land my very first design job. I took the first position offered to me- and was so happy! But now it's 2 years later and I just got laid off. My mindset now had completely changed. I've been stressed, and working through so much self doubt. Am I good enough to be an artist here? What if I was only good enough for that job? What if I made a mistake living in a place so oversaturated with artists?? I've just been letting myself be scared. But the thing is, 20 year old Mia was fearless. She knew everything was going to be okay. She believed in herself and her work. She was flexible, eager to learn, and knows her designs speak for itself. I knew I had outgrown my first job. I felt like I learned what I could there- but I was too afraid to leave because the job was "easy" and "secure". Being laid off is what I needed to take the time to look for the right job. One that's more geared towards my design style. All I need is one person to believe me. Just one. So I need to stop beating myself up. I know I will find my place and where I'm supposed to be.

Writing for Self-Discovery - image 6 - student project This is my absolute favorite quote by David Bowie from the song Changes. I grew up listening to this song, but it wasn't until recently that I heard this lyric and stood back in awe. It's such a powerful quote. I couldn't find any cute graphics with it so I decided to make my own. <3

Writing for Self-Discovery - image 7 - student project

And that's it! I completed the brain dump exercise but it ended up being very personal so I decided not to post that one. However I did decide to include a "bonus prompt" below! :)

Writing for Self-Discovery - image 8 - student project So this is how I normally journal. It's simple enough that even if I'm busy I can take 5 minutes and write this down. So I just write three things:

1. Someone in your walking life that you are grateful for. (Parent, bff, boyfriend/girlfriend)

2. Anything in the universe that you are grateful for. (You ate at your favorite diner, the moon was pretty, the new episode of Schitt's Creek was amazing)

3. Something you are grateful for in yourself. (On hard days it can be: I'm grateful I got out of bed and took a walk and on better days it can be: I did a random act of kindness.)

This prompt really keeps me grounded and reminds me how precious life is and that I have so many wonderful people in my life that care about me.

Thank you for looking at my words and doodles! I hope you enjoyed. <3

Mia LaCascia

Welcome to my colorful world!

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