--- Fire Goddess Rising ---
Do not douse these embers,
Questioning the wisdom
of your choices.
Nor ask for permission
to exist,
When everything is non-sensical.
Fan them tenderly,
Smiling.
As the world fractures, Kindle the smouldering spark that ignites your silent fury.
Launch headlong into the raging blaze, the indignant inferno, without worry.
Her fierce flames of protection
will burnish
your angry heart.
--- Poetry by Holly Bailie ---
A slow, spacious start
I wrote last weekend about my quest to explore my evolving identity/ies, following my shift from diplomacy to solopreneurship.
Maybe you took the chance to dive deep too, journalling on your Identity Inventory.
I’ll tell you more about my personal story of shifting professional identities in my regular Weekend Reads post tomorrow. Today is a little bonus share.
This year, I chose to have a gentle January, easing into 2026 slowly without pressure, allowing plenty of time for introspection and DISCOVERY (my word for 2026).
I don’t want to hurry into my new life and business. I prefer steady and spacious progress, that allows me to grow sustainably, at my own pace.
Hi, I’m Holly, a career/life coach and mindfulness facilitator. Here at Zestful Zen, I share tips on self-care, creativity and personal growth, to help you live mindfully with zest, zen, and purpose. Subscribe to join our supportive community and our Gentle Gatherings. Come inside and cosy up by the fire. You’re so welcome here. ☕️💕
Embracing my creative spirit
Giving myself this gift of gentle exploration is also enabling me to own my new identity of writer, to follow my curiosity and sense of wonder.
I’m on a journey of tuning into my voice and exploring my imagination.
As well as diving deep into self-discovery through journalling, I’ve treated myself to Ink + Flame, Beth Kempton’s 7 week immersive writing course.
We’re encouraged to share our words as part of the creative process, so you can expect more bonus posts over the coming weeks.
I hope you’ll enjoy these snippets of my evolving creative voice.
Maybe they’ll encourage you to share from your imagination too. I’d love to read or hear your words.
Work with me! How I can help you ✅
For career clarity, navigating change and personal growth: 1-to-1 coaching.
Manage stress, build mind-body connection and be fully present through mindfulness (live group classes and self-paced e-courses).
Self-reflection and journal prompts ✍️
What aspect of your identity would you like to explore this year?
When do you tap into your imagination the most?
When/where are you most comfortable expressing yourself?
What would following your creative voice look like for you?
Share your perspective ✨
I’d love to hear your reflections on identity, creativity and imagination. What supports your creative practice? When do you feel most inspired and imaginative?
If you enjoyed this post, please comment, like or share with others. Thanks for your support! ✨
🔥 Like advice from beyond yourself Xx