Following curiosity to lead yourself out of your comfort zone
it's within the liminal space where the surprises unfold :)
I agreed to do something different and out of my old comfort zone
And gosh was it lovely…
Last week I was invited to be a part of a commercial shoot for a brand that I support wholeheartedly. I had seen an application for NYC members to participate in a video shoot. I filled it in and thought nothing of it - I had completely forgotten that I had filled it in.
A couple of weeks later, someone from the Seed team invited me to schedule an intro call and I was delighted to be considered. The two team members that I met on a very brief video chat were lovely, bright energy and so easy to chat with. After 8 min, the call was over and they let me know they’d be back in touch the following week. Again, I gave it no more brain space and I continued on with my day to day. As promised, I heard back from them a few days later and honestly I didn’t think I’d be selected to be a part of this campaign but I was! I was so touched and honored and they worked with me around my schedule availability to fit me in.
I was excited because when I believe in a brand, concept, idea - I am loyal and I do spread the good word from the rooftops in my own unique way. And this time I was going to do it on a bigger scale while telling my story, journey and relationship with Seed.
I had really zero expectations going into this except I pieced together that I’d be surrounded by dope people and a brand I care about. Things just kept getting sweeter after each interaction I had with the team. I asked for what I needed and they re-arranged the schedule to meet my schedule conflict. I later found out this wasn’t a volunteer gig - I was getting compensated for my day with them. My internal reaction was gratitude and appreciation.
On the day of the shoot - I arrived with a big tote filled with wardrobe options and was immediately greeted with big smiles and hospitality. The stylist took my bag off my shoulder, the production assistant guided me towards the breakfast table - there was not a slight possibility of me being parched as I was offered beverages galore! It was a really sweet moment for me to feel such hospitality and care - something I take a lot of pride in when I am hosting or entertaining in spaces. It took me a moment to arrive and allow myself to fully receive as I was a bit overwhelmed by the excitement of my arrival. It’s always so curious to me to self observe in these moments. The lesson always reminds me that I too deserve to be seen, cared for and valued for what I share and bring to the table. I guide and coach individuals to receive this and these are great reminders that although I have made it through the hardest parts of my journey - I need these moments to get grounded and affirm that I deserve and can receive the hospitality I want and give.
I learnt a lot from this truly magical and fun day! I’ve spent some time reflecting and processing it - it takes me at least 24 hours to process information and for bigger more impactful interactions - it takes me up to a week sometimes. It allows me time to connect my dots and remember all the moments and details. I get to relive it over and over and be present versus move to the next thing all too quickly.
We all are enthusiastic and passionate about different things. The reason I share this experience is because it weaves in my language, alignment, hospitality and surrender. All of them integrated because I’ve spent the last 5 years listening to myself and learning how to lead myself so I can confidently lead others. And to be able to receive such thoughtful hospitality and care.
How does one lead oneself?
It takes a lot of willingness and conviction to walk towards discomfort. You must try different and new things to see what makes you feel most like YOU and fulfilled, excited and inspired. It takes little steps that can turn into big leaps! I’m known for taking what looks like very large leaps from the outside but I spend months and sometimes years paving the way to take the big leap.
Here’s a mini workshop for you! Sit with these questions and answer them honestly. If you are ready to do something different, learn more about yourself, lead yourself towards whatever it is you are wanting more of - this will help you get more intentional and fluent in what your next little step could be.
What story is on loop that is causing me to be frustrated, dull, unmotivated?
What do I get most inspired and lit up about every day?
What are 3 of your most impactful interactions in the last 3 months? Do they have a link or a theme?
What is one thing that I’m curious about that I want to integrate into my daily?
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