Cygnet Design Studio

Life's most persistent question is, what are you doing for others? This profound inquiry, often attributed to Martin Luther King Jr., invites us to reflect on the impact we have on those around us. It challenges us to look beyond our own needs and desires, encouraging a shift towards a more altruistic and compassionate way of living. By focusing on how we can contribute positively to the lives of others, we not only enrich their lives but also find a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in our own. This question serves as a reminder that our actions, no matter how small, can create ripples of change in the world.

Imposter syndrome is hitting hard today.

As I look at 2026 and think of all my hopes and dreams for it as an artist, I feel indelibly overwhelmed.

In 2025, I rented a studio to teach sewing lessons and build my handbag design portfolio on weekends. I have only used the studio a handful of times because I was too sick or too busy to be there, even for a few hours.

I don't regret the busyness, though; it means I have been experiencing my children's growth in their last few years of teenagehood! ❤💙

Since I have not been able to do what I have wanted with the studio, I decided to pivot a bit and design surface patterns to sell as fabric, wallpaper, and greeting cards. Because it's something I can do from home in the evenings and weekends when I can't make it to the studio. But it has proved more difficult than anticipated, and I feel overwhelmed and as if I don't belong in the creative world.

I know this feeling will pass. And, I know my confidence will return.

But today, I sit in fear of my creative future.

And, that's okay. To sit with it for a bit. There are always lessons to be learned.

Tomorrow, I will re-group and push forward.

I will return to believing that every day brings new hope, new beginnings, and always something to be grateful for.

And that inspires me to be better and to show up for children, my husband, my friends, my coworkers, and myself.