Do you set aside time and space for yourself? Do you have even a small corner of your home reserved for your passions or hobbies—a place that inspires you to do what you love?
Although this blog is connected to my work, the home itself is one of my greatest passions. This space is where I share the things I enjoy and the projects that make me feel alive.
Many bloggers treat their site strictly as a job, but for me the line between work and passion is blurred. I genuinely love creating and writing about home and family. Sometimes the distinction only shows up during tax season—then it feels like work. At other times, it’s pure joy.
My home is my playground, a place to express creativity and nurture myself and my family. Even when my passion, purpose, and work overlap, I try to remember that creating a home is something I do for myself, not just for business. My daughter Courtney and I laugh because when I try to take an evening off, I’ll often find myself rearranging a mantel or styling a vignette simply because that’s what I love to do.
Finding time and space for yourself is important—it matters. Writing books and blog posts is rewarding, but my first love is creating a home. Recently I told my book editor I needed to step away from the computer and actually do the things I’d been writing about. Writing from a place of authenticity and passion matters to me, and when I feel depleted I recharge by stepping away from the screen and puttering around the house. That hands-on time is where I find joy.
Sometimes you need a little inspiration to remember who you are and what you love. It’s easy to forget yourself in the busy routine of life. I recently put inspiration boards above my desk to remind me of the things I love to do. That little corner is my happy place. Yes, it’s in my office, and yes I work there, but being intentional about carving out time and space to be myself has made a big difference. My work is woven into what I love, and sharing it with this community is a joy.
Of course, I lose sight of my priorities sometimes—just like everyone else. It’s not only about decorating and projects. If I spend too much time focused on the house, I can lose perspective on what truly matters. It’s equally important to take breaks from household tasks and responsibilities to rest, connect with friends, and simply enjoy life. Finding balance is essential.
I’ve been reading a helpful book by my friend Jessica Turner called The Fringe Hours, Making Time for You. If you often reach the end of the day and realize you haven’t done anything for yourself, this book offers practical ideas to reclaim small pockets of time. It includes encouragement and strategies to help you intentionally create moments for your own well-being.
If you struggle to find time and space, try this simple project Jessica suggests: make a real, physical inspiration board. Skip the digital version for now. A tangible board in your home will serve as a daily reminder to be yourself. Use an unused bulletin board, create one from scratch, or dedicate a blank wall for this purpose.
- Look for a bulletin board at a local store or use a spare one you already have.
- Gather push pins, pretty paper, fabric scraps, ribbons, and any small keepsakes that inspire you.
- Consider watercolor lettering, photos, or hand-drawn elements to personalize the space.
- Search your home for mementos, cards, or images that lift your spirits.
After you read this, try shutting down your computer and turning off your phone. Put on music you love and, if possible, arrange for someone to watch the kids so you have an uninterrupted hour or two. Look around the house for materials: magazines, old photos, awards, fabric swatches, ribbon, or little treasures tucked in drawers. Cut, paste, pin, paint, or draw—whatever calls to you.
Pin up items that make you feel like yourself. Let the board be a visual reminder of what brings you joy and ignites your creativity.
Step back and look at your board. Do you see yourself in it? You are unique, valuable, and deserving of time to be who you are. Create space for that person to flourish.
The photo at the top is a peek at my in-progress inspiration board.