Today, I wanted to have a little chat about why I do what I do—why I'm so drawn to drawing and painting flowers, and why I became a fabric and textile designer, with a focus on floral patterns. To understand my 'why,' I took a deep dive into my past and the pivotal moments that have unknowingly shaped my path in life and my deep love for fabrics.
One of the most transformative moments for me, and I would say it changed my life in a wonderfully positive way, was when I was just 14 years old. I was living in London with my parents, and as part of our exploring, we visited Liberty of London, which is particularly famous for its distinctive floral prints. It was there that I truly fell in love with fabrics. I had been sewing for a while at that point, making clothes and such, but seeing all those beautiful fabrics in person had a profound impact on me. It wasn't until around 2012 that I started to fully embrace my passion for painting and drawing flowers, particularly for floral illustrations that could be used in fabric design. That had always been my dream—to be a fabric designer and see my art on fabrics. I'm proud to say that I've achieved that goal, and I paint new art for fabric designs every week.
But that's just one part of the story. Another significant influence in my life was my Aunt, who was an artist. She specialized in painting floral bouquets, vases, and still lifes. Her artistic presence was always there, quietly inspiring me in the background.
Then, there were the practical skills I learned from my grandmother and mother—embroidery, crochet, sewing, and all sorts of handicrafts. These skills have been an essential part of my life and have contributed to my ability to create intricate and detailed floral designs.
And let's not forget my grandparents' garden. It was a haven of rows and rows of flower beds, seasonal plants, and bulbs. Every season brought new blooms and a different display. It was like having a little botanical garden right outside my doorstep, and it played a significant role in shaping my connection to flowers and nature.
So, when you ask me why I'm so drawn to flowers and fabrics, it's a blend of all these experiences—a deep-rooted connection to my past, the inspiration I've drawn from my family, the skills I've honed, and my unending love for the beauty of nature. That's my 'why,' and it reminds me that our passions and creative pursuits often have rich and meaningful roots in our own life stories."
Have you ever felt like you're drifting through life, lacking a clear sense of purpose? Do you find yourself wondering why you do the things you do or why certain beliefs and values shape your decisions? If you're on a quest to discover your "why" — that greater reason behind your actions, choices, and goals — you're not alone. Finding your "why" is a profound journey that can lead to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of uncovering your "why" and provide a list of essential questions to help you explore the depths of your motivations.
Why Does Your "Why" Matter?
Your "why" is the driving force behind your actions, the foundation of your goals, and the reason your beliefs and values matter. Understanding your "why" can have a profound impact on your life in the following ways:
- Clarity and Focus: Knowing your "why" gives you a clear sense of purpose, helping you prioritize what truly matters to you.
- Motivation: Your "why" acts as a powerful motivator during challenging times, pushing you to persist and overcome obstacles.
- Alignment: Discovering your "why" allows you to align your actions, beliefs, and values, creating a sense of authenticity and inner harmony.
- Impact: When you know your "why," you can make choices that positively impact not only your life but also the lives of others.
Now, let's delve into the process of finding your "why" with a series of thought-provoking questions.
Questions to Uncover Your "Why"
1. What Are Your Passions?
- What activities or causes make you feel truly alive?
- What could you spend hours doing without getting bored or tired?
2. What Are Your Strengths?
- What are you naturally good at?
- When do you feel the most confident and capable?
3. What Are Your Core Values?
- What principles and values do you hold dear?
- Which values are non-negotiable for you, regardless of circumstances?
4. What Makes You Happy?
- What moments in life have brought you the most joy and satisfaction?
- When do you feel the happiest version of yourself?
5. What Would You Do If You Had Unlimited Resources?
- If money, time, and other resources were not constraints, how would you spend your life?
- What dreams and aspirations would you pursue?
6. What Impact Do You Want to Make on the World?
- How do you want to contribute to your community or the world at large?
- What positive change would you like to see as a result of your actions?
7. What Motivates You to Get Out of Bed Every Morning?
- What inspires you to start each day with enthusiasm?
- Is there a particular goal or purpose that drives you forward?
8. What Are Your Prized Achievements?
- Think about moments in your life when you felt incredibly proud. What were you doing?
- What accomplishments do you cherish the most?
9. What Are Your Deepest Regrets?
- Reflect on times when you felt a sense of regret. What decisions or actions do you wish you had taken differently?
- What do these regrets reveal about your values and priorities?
10. What Legacy Do You Want to Leave Behind?
- Consider what you would like people to remember you for after you're gone.
- How can your actions today contribute to that legacy?
Finding your "why" is a lifelong journey, and it's perfectly normal for it to evolve over time. Your "why" is deeply intertwined with your passions, strengths, values, and the impact you want to make in the world. By asking yourself these thoughtful questions and reflecting on your answers, you can begin to uncover the greater reason behind your actions and decisions. Remember, your "why" is a compass that can guide you toward a more purposeful and fulfilling life, where your beliefs and values shape not only your goals but also your greater reasons for being.
I hope this post has inspired you to reflect on your life's experiences and also think about your greater purpose.
