Career & Business Coaching Blog.
Inspiration and tips for multi-passionate creatives & entrepreneurs.
Generalists Are Poor, Specialists Are Rich - Not Anymore!
I came across this quote recently, and as a generalist who supports other generalists to become financially free, you can imagine how it stopped me in my tracks!
"Generalists are poor, specialists are rich. The family MD gets by while the surgeon is wealthy."
It’s a little phrase, but in my experience, even though it's a far-fetched myth, it can make any generalist feel bad.
For a long time, I felt out of place, juggling multiple interests and thriving in diverse areas rather than focusing on just one thing. People often told me I needed to specialize, that I started so many things, but hardly ever finished anything. But the more I lived, the more I realized that being a generalist is my biggest strength. My curiosity and wide skill set didn’t just fit into a single box - they built bridges between them.
And here’s the thing, the rapid growth of Tech and AI is making space for talents like ours. Renaissance people - those who see connections others miss - are leading innovation. We adapt quickly, think more creatively, and offer insights specialists may overlook. We’re no longer “jack of all trades, master of none”; we’re the missing piece that drives change.
Being a generalist means adopting powerful AI tools much faster than anyone else, amplifying our already impressive versatility and problem-solving skills. Click here to read more about my current favorites and how I use them:
ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude: These LLMs provide instant insights and help me adapt to emerging trends. I love the new OpenAI Agent for research and lists, Gemini for document summaries, picture generation, and emails, and Claude for deep research.
Jasper.ai: Streamline content creation with AI-powered efficiency. Their recent updates make them my go-to for anything content-related.
Motionapp.com: Uses AI to optimize your schedule for project management. Efficient, even though - fair warning - sometimes a bit too rigid for a generalist like me.
Runwayml.com: Revolutionizes creative work with generative AI.
Adzviser.com: Embraces AI technology to revolutionize digital advertising, empowering businesses to craft more effective ad campaigns, target the right audiences, and maximize ROI.
Gemini.com Gems: An AI cross-functional team that empowers you to achieve more than you thought possible.
HeyGen.com: Redefines storytelling with AI-generated videos, enabling users to create engaging, high-quality content effortlessly.
ElevenLabs.io: Transforms the way we interact with audio through advanced AI-driven voice technology, giving creators the tools to generate realistic, dynamic voiceovers and push the boundaries of audio storytelling.
NotebookLM.google: I love the custom podcasts and summaries I can create from information and knowledge I provide, making information more accessible and digestible for on-the-go learners.
n8n.io: My new passion, an open-source automation platform that puts the power back in your hands. With n8n, you’re not just automating tasks - you’re building a powerful AI agentic workflow that reflects your vision, your ideas, and your unique needs.
Lovable.dev: THE vibe coding app that I use to build coachmila.ai. Talking about my new AI coach, try it out here: coachmila.ai/free-ai-life-coach-mila
It’s not just about the technology - it’s about the courage to take that first step in embodying your creative generalist nature, trusting your instincts, and believing in the value you bring to the table.
Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, to innovate, and to push boundaries. Remember, you have what it takes to create something extraordinary - so start now, and see where your unique talents and interests can take you.
Let's redefine what it means to be a generalist - and why the world desperately needs us.
Here’s to owning your beautiful mix of skills,
Murielle
Featured image representing a diverse group of creative generalists, generated using AI by Google Gemini.
Are You Ready to Thrive as a Creative Generalist?
Imagine what you could achieve if you embraced the power of your many skills, unique perspective, and the potential of AI. The world is waiting for the ideas only you can bring to life - now with the support of innovative technology.
Whether you're navigating a complex challenge or striving to realize your next big vision, having the right partner can make all the difference. That's where I come in - I specialize in helping multi-passionate individuals like you turn their talents and many interests into superpowers.
From 'Idea Overload' to Clear Direction: Your Guide to Taming a Creative Generalist Mind
Do you have a notes app on your laptop or mobile phone filled with bullet lists of brilliant ideas, half-finished projects, and countless "aha!" moments, only to feel paralyzed by the sheer volume of possibilities? You're not alone. Creative generalists, as I like to call them, find themselves in a constant state of idea overload, struggling to translate their vibrant inner worlds into tangible action. As a coach dedicated to helping creatives get unstuck, this is one of the most common challenges I see.
The Overwhelm of Endless Possibilities
It often feels like you're "tinkering in dreamland" rather than building something real. Consider my client Laura, who, despite taking various classes and managing multiple blogs, expressed feeling like she was "looking in the wrong place" and couldn't pinpoint her next steps. Another creative I worked with, let's call him John, described himself as "a very creative person" who generates ideas rapidly but consistently struggles with "following up on them."
The sheer volume of thoughts can be overwhelming, leading to a messy kind of focus that shifts constantly.
For some, this intense creative energy, without a clear outlet, can even result in a feeling of numbness in their creative life. This isn't a sign of laziness; many clients, like Andy, acknowledge they "do lots of work" but remain confused about their direction. It’s simply the difficulty in transforming a rich internal landscape into concrete results, often due to significant mental blocks.
When the Inner Critic Takes the Wheel
A major saboteur in this journey is your inner dialogue - your inner critic. This voice can be relentlessly negative, telling you that you're "not good enough", that your aspirations aren't "real", or that you're destined to "fail". This fear often leads to perfectionism, where the desire to do everything flawlessly can result in analysis paralysis.
Instead of acting, you might get stuck in an endless loop of research or overthinking, procrastinating indefinitely.
My client Sarah's inner critic, for instance, sometimes lures her into believing she doesn't "really have to do the work" because of her talents, only to then call her a "failure". This internal conflict is powerful and often leads creative generalists to feel like their dreams will "never work" after repeatedly getting stuck trying to pursue them.
Discovering Your Unique "Glue" for Clarity
The key to overcoming this multi-passionate overwhelm often lies in identifying your unique "glue," the underlying theme or purpose that connects your seemingly disparate interests. (If you want to know more about it, or find your glue, check out my book Get Unstuck!).
One powerful tool for this is the "Ideal Day" exercise.
By visualizing what your ideal life and work would look and feel like, you start to "see beyond the borders of the lives we’re currently stuck in" and reconnect with your authentic desires. For Paulien, one of my uncommon clients, this exercise provided a crucial direction: "An office job is not for me." That clarity, after trying to land an office job for months, allowed Paulien to finally go for what she really wanted: to be a cowgirl and trail guide around the world.
From Thinking to Doing: The Power of Intentional Action
Once clarity begins to emerge, the next step is crucial: getting into action.
Your creative generalist mind is brilliant at generating ideas, but the real magic happens when you move from planning to execution. Many creatives know what it's like to feel stuck in overthinking and fear.
As I love to remind my clients (and myself!), "the most effective way to do something, well, is... to do it".
This means breaking free from the paralyzing "fear loop" where constant analysis keeps you from moving forward. Even small, consistent steps, like my client Patricia's commitment to dedicating an hour daily to applying for copywriting jobs, can lead to incredible breakthroughs, while helping you face often-unconscious fears stalling your success.
Rewiring Your Brain for Unshakeable Confidence
At the heart of getting unstuck is the understanding that your thoughts shape your reality, and you possess the power to choose what you think, believe, and act upon.
It’s about cultivating a mindset that believes in a positive outcome regardless of the current situation and actively working your way through fear. The goal is to gain clarity and confidence, silence your inner critic, and learn to love yourself for who you really are, and to choose what you truly want in your life, career, or business. This transformative work helped Catherine, who initially came to me looking for a mentor for day-to-day business but ultimately left a toxic partnership to build her own highly successful agency, all by developing the necessary mindset and self-confidence.
Your Path to Getting Unstuck
You don't need to have all the answers right now or know exactly how your "ideal days" will materialize. As I have learned, after working on this for a decade, the journey to getting unstuck involves embracing your unique strengths and allowing opportunities to emerge by creating space for them.
My tailored private coaching support acts as your secret business partner, helping you navigate challenges like building multiple income streams, finding purpose-driven work, or overcoming imposter syndrome.
If you have many interests and passions, a fear of choosing, and a strong aversion to boredom, if you feel overwhelmed by your many brilliant ideas, battle procrastination, or have a hard time silencing your inner critic, you might be a creative generalist.
The path to genuine fulfillment for multi-passionate people like you involves acknowledging your unique strengths, quieting the sabotaging voices within, and taking intentional, consistent action toward the life and career you truly desire.
It’s time to choose your thoughts and behavior actively, understand your unique creative brain, and build habits that will last, so you can move from doing nothing to finally stepping into your creative potential.
Ready to transform your idea overload into a clear, confident path forward?
What if you gave yourself permission to start imperfectly? What if you stopped waiting for the “perfect” moment, the “perfect” idea, or the “perfect” plan and began?
You have the power to take just one step today - one small action that brings you closer to your dreams. Take the first step towards getting unstuck and book a free coaching session today. Let's discover your unique "glue" and turn your creative generalist nature into your greatest asset!
Redefining Success: Breaking Free from Expectations to Find Your True Career Path
Picture this: you’re climbing your first career ladder, but as you're getting higher, you realise it’s propped against the wrong wall. For many young professionals, this eerie metaphor becomes reality. I know, because many of them end up sitting across from me in my career coaching practice. Trapped by societal norms and familial expectations, they often find themselves chasing inherited dreams instead of their own. The weight of these expectations, often combined with the financial safety net that their well-meaning parents provide, can feel suffocating, leading to self-doubt, boreout, confusion, and ultimately, burnout.
But what if there’s a way to step off the path carved for you and start carving your own? What if the freedom you’re yearning for isn’t as far away as it feels? In this post, I will share what I've learned supporting young professionals to find the career they love: their internal struggles, but also the actionable steps that helped them shift from feeling stuck to rediscovering their purpose.
It all starts with one question: What do you truly want?
The Struggles of Living Someone Else’s Dream
The Invisible Chains of Expectations
For many of us, family plays such an important role in shaping our dreams and ambitions. Parents dream of stability for us - the prestigious job, the paycheck with benefits, the degree you’ll hang on your office wall. While these aspirations come from a good place, they can overshadow your authentic desires. Over time, the life you’re building can feel more like a tribute to someone else’s dreams rather than a reflection of your own.
Have you ever asked yourself, "Whose success am I really striving for?" It’s a hard question, especially when external pressures reinforce the idea that there’s a "correct" path to success. Knowing whether you’re living authentically or on autopilot can be a challenge.
Losing Sight of Your Personal Vision
Here’s the paradox young professionals face today. On one hand, there’s the endless array of career options made possible by technology and a globalized economy. On the other hand, that incomprehensible amount of choices can lead to analysis paralysis. Because of this, I see many young professionals struggle with questions like: “Am I making the right choice?" or worse, "What if I’ve already made the wrong one?”
This fear of committing to the wrong career path often keeps people stuck. They stop moving forward, confused and uncertain about what their true vision for themselves actually looks like. If this is you, you're not to blame. The pressure of expectations and societal norms can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: there’s no single “right” path, and there’s immense power in simply taking the next step - no matter how small it may be - that feels right for you.
The Looming Threat of Burnout
When you continuously chase external validation - whether through promotions, LinkedIn likes, or climbing the corporate title ranks - burnout becomes almost inevitable. Burnout is a dreamkiller because it doesn’t just leave you exhausted; it leaves you questioning your worth, your purpose, and the very goals you once thought were right for you.
The good news? You’re not as stuck as you think. Below are practical ways to break the cycle.
3 Powerful Steps to Reclaim Your True Career Path
1. Reflect on Your Values and Passions
The first step to building a life you love is understanding what truly matters to you. It’s about going beyond what society or family expects and asking yourself:
What lights me up?
What do I value most - creativity, independence, or impact?
If I weren't afraid of what my parents or friends would think, what would I do differently today?
Find some quiet time to journal or think about these questions. Reflection is like decluttering - once you sort through the mess of other people's expectations about your life, you’ll begin to see your own dreams emerge.
What you can do right now
Block off an hour each week to write down the moments that brought you happiness and fulfillment. Look for patterns over time - they might reveal hidden passions or values you’ve overlooked.
2. Experiment With New Experiences
Finding your path isn’t about having all the answers upfront. It’s about trying new things and staying open to those "Aha!" moments. Maybe it’s volunteering for causes you care about, freelancing in a different field, or even pursuing a side project. Exploration is how you discover what energizes you.
Think of it like prototyping your career or microdosing your dreams. Not every attempt will succeed, but each one will bring new insights.
What you can do right now
Pick one thing you’ve always been curious about - learning graphic design, public speaking, investing - and dedicate 30 minutes a day to it for a month. You may uncover a passion or skill you never knew you were capable of.
3. Seek Guidance From a Mentor or Professional
Sometimes, the best way to make sense of our choices is by having someone help us see things through a fresh lens. A mentor or career coach can not only guide you through uncertainties but also provide the tools and strategies to identify your strengths and goals.
The key here is finding someone who listens without judgment and encourages you to think big. A career coach’s role isn’t to prescribe a solution but to help you chart the path that feels true to yourself.
What you can do right now
Reach out to someone you admire - a teacher, former manager, or industry leader. Ask for a coffee chat and approach it as a learning opportunity. Their perspective might spark clarity on your next steps.
Breaking Free Starts With One Choice
The pain of being stuck isn’t permanent. It’s a signal that something needs to change - and that change can start today. By reflecting on your values, exploring different paths, and seeking meaningful guidance, you’re not just rejecting the mold; you’re reclaiming your agency.
Remember: You don’t have to do it alone. Imagine having someone who truly listens, who gives you the tools to rewrite your story and step into a life that feels undeniably yours.
That life, the one filled with purpose, joy, and authenticity, is within your reach. It’s not a distant dream or something reserved for others; it’s waiting for you to claim it. Every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to the life you’re meant to live. And through it all, I want you to know this: I believe in you.
You are capable, resilient, and worthy of every beautiful moment ahead. The power to create your path is already in your hands. Keep going – you’ve got this!
Feeling stuck or weighed down by expectations?
You’re not alone - so many talented, creative souls end up living someone else’s story, unsure how to start writing their own. It’s easy to lose clarity amidst the noise and pressure.
Let’s discover what truly motivates and inspires you. I’m offering a free session to help you untangle expectations, reconnect with your authentic values, and set your sights on a future you choose - one that lights you up.
Job Envy: The Creative Generalist's Struggle and How to Turn It into Your Biggest Advantage
As a multi-passionate, creative individual, have you ever found yourself scrolling through LinkedIn, pausing on a "perfect" job title for a specialist, and feeling a pang (or two or three) of envy? You see someone thriving in a singular, focused role – perhaps a "Senior AI Developer" or an award-winning "Cupcake Master" – and for a fleeting moment, you think, "That's it! That's what I should be doing!" This phenomenon, known as "job envy," is, unfortunately, a common experience for creative generalists.
We live in a world that largely expects us to choose one thing and become experts in it. Growing up, I realised early that this wasn't going to work for me. Creative generalists, also known as multi-passionate creatives, polymaths, or multipotentialites, are wired differently; we need to combine various interests and quickly become bored once we've figured something out. Sound familiar?
This can lead to a "patchwork of jobs" or a history of starting new projects only to abandon them when the initial excitement fades. When you see someone seemingly "sticking with it" and achieving conventional success, it's natural for that inner critic to show up, reminding you of your own perceived lack of focus or commitment.
However, this envy is often a fleeting emotion because deep down, you know that a single, narrow path wouldn't truly fulfill you in the long run. What you're truly envying isn't the entire job, but rather specific aspects of it – the knowledge, the skills, the experience, or even just the sense of clear direction that specialist seems to possess. You’re not alone in feeling like a "mish-mash of random half-baked talents" despite having expensive degrees or diverse experiences. Many creative generalists I support feel misunderstood, out of place, and never good enough when compared to society's standards of success.
The good news is, you can transform this job envy from a source of self-doubt into a powerful catalyst for your own growth and clarity. Here are three strategies that have worked for me and many of my clients to use job envy to your advantage:
1. Deconstruct the envy: figure out what you really like about this job
Instead of wanting the entire job, break down what specifically attracts you to it. What is it about that "Senior AI Developer" role that sparks your interest? Why would you like to be celebrated at a Cupcake Master? Is it the challenge of solving complex technical problems, the intellectual stimulation of working with cutting-edge technology, or the delight of seeing people truly enjoy your delirious creations? For a creative generalist, the desire is often for the knowledge or skill associated with that role, as well as the recognition of it by others, rather than a long-term commitment to a singular career path (as that, in fact, is our kryptonite).
Action: When you feel a pang of job envy, pause and ask yourself:
What specific skills or knowledge does this person have that I'd love to acquire?
What problems do they solve, or what impact do they make, that resonates with me?
What aspects of their daily work excite me, even if the overall job doesn't?
By doing this, you're not trying to become that person; you're extracting valuable "ingredients" for your own unique "portfolio career". You're combining instead of choosing, my favorite thing to do when I'm helping a client create their dream career.
For example, a multi-passionate creative might be fascinated by how an AI developer builds chatbots and workflow automation and realize they want to learn those specific skills to differentiate themselves and teach others (like I currently am), not necessarily become a full-time developer. This clarifies your focus, helping you combine different interests into a meaningful whole (as I share in my book, you're the glue binding them all together, after all), that aligns with your innate curiosity and desire (or, should I say, need) for learning.
2. Disrupt your limiting beliefs and inherited dreams
Job envy often triggers deeply ingrained limiting beliefs and "inherited dreams," as I like to call dreams that we were given through our upbringing and experiences, about what success should look like. You might be subconsciously trying to fit into a blueprint of success that isn't yours, leading to feelings of not fitting in and frustration. Your inner critic might tell you, "This has been done before, it's not original," or "You're not confident enough to be an entrepreneur". These thoughts stem from a "fixed mindset" that resists change and follows conventional paths.
Action: Use job envy as a "disruptive strategy" to challenge these mental blocks:
When your inner critic shows up, question it. Where do these beliefs come from? Are they truly yours, or are they messages you've internalized from childhood, society, or past experiences?
Apply the "Solomon Effect": view your situation from an outside perspective. Ask yourself, "What would I tell my best friend or my child if they shared the same envy or self-doubt?"
Accept that there’s nothing "wrong" with you; you might have simply been "misdiagnosed" by a world that doesn't fully understand your multi-passionate brain. This shift in mindset can help you see new opportunities in all these jobs you'd like to have (without actually leaving your current job for them) and help you to finally feel like you belong (which you do!).
3. Cultivate grit and consistent action towards your vision
The comparison trap, especially professionally, can lead to inaction, leaving you "stuck" in an overthinking loop where you analyze every option but - drumrolls please, do absolutely nothing. You might find yourself "trying everything" but "not sticking to anything". Overcoming job envy requires transforming that envy into something constructive: concrete action, even if it feels uncomfortable.
Action: Move from contemplation to execution:
Question the "One Thing" Myth: Society often pushes us to choose one thing. But as a creative generalist, you don't have to. Allow yourself to have multiple job interests and weave them together.
Celebrate your unconventional path: Your career or work history might resemble a game of Snakes and Ladders, with twists and turns. This reflects the uniqueness of your brain and passions, not a flaw to be ashamed of! Don't compare yourself to the linear paths of specialists.
Recognize the growing value of generalists in the workplace: Luckily, things are improving, and more and more companies are hiring for skills and talents, actively looking for generalists who can juggle many hats and create bridges between ideas, projects, and people.
Remember, your diverse experiences and wide-ranging interests are your SUPERPOWER. They allow you to see possibilities and connections that others often overlook. The path you have walked, with all its twists and turns, is what makes you uniquely capable of tackling challenges with creativity, innovation, and resilience.
Own your story, lean into your strengths, and trust that your vast t-shaped breadth of knowledge and adaptability are exactly what the world needs. You are not an exception - you are an asset. Always believe in the power of being unapologetically, authentically you. I know I do!
Ready to Turn Your Multi-Passionate Job Envy into an Advantage?
Feeling stuck and unsure of how to channel your many passions into a fulfilling career can be overwhelming but here's the truth – your multi-passionate nature is a gift, not a burden.
If you're tired of just thinking about your goals and want to start working on them, let's connect for a free one-on-one coaching session. Together, we can find your own answers, chunk up your big projects, and help you find the flow and confidence to build the life and career you truly want.
Building Your Creative Income: 7 Practical Steps for Financial Freedom with a Portfolio Career.
Even though the days of job security and one job for life are long gone, the idea of it being replaced by a career solely focused on one area of expertise is also becoming outdated. Especially with the rise of the gig economy, more and more people are turning to portfolio careers to build their creative income. A portfolio career means having multiple sources of income, often in different industries or areas of work, rather than relying on one full-time job.
For many creatives, especially generalists, this type of career may already be familiar - working on freelance projects while having a part-time job or taking on various side gigs. But with careful planning and deliberate action, a portfolio career can be a sustainable and fulfilling way to build your creative income and achieve financial freedom while doing work you love!
In this article, I share insights from working with creatives (for a decade now!) on how to create a portfolio career that works for you. I hope it will inspire you to follow your career dreams and embrace the opportunities that come from having a portfolio career.
Embrace your unique generalist nature
As a creative generalist or someone with many interests and passions, the traditional linear career path with a single job and source of income often leads to bore-out, especially if your talents are being underutilized (which they usually are). Instead, a portfolio career combines multiple income streams aligned with your passions, interests, talents, and skills. That's the amazing part! But, however exciting this approach can be, it often feels financially precarious.
Many of my clients have expressed concerns about financial stability while pursuing their creative endeavors, a recurring theme when onboarding new coaching clients. They might feel like they don't have their "shit together." Or they might have innovative business ideas they're unsure how to market, like this wonderful creative who has been in wine and restaurant management before having a child and who came to me while working on a nut-free energy bar recipe geared towards new mothers, also considering an app focused on mother care. A typical way for a creative generalist to connect seemingly unconnected dots or, as I like to say it, discover their unique "glue."
7 Practical steps for financial freedom with a portfolio career
As a creative (generalist) and entrepreneur, building a multi-source income stream is crucial for long-term financial sustainability while allowing you the freedom to do work that truly fills you up. Here are some practical steps that worked for me and many of my clients to help you create your own thriving financial foundation:
#1 Map your talents and skills, and learn to appreciate them
As someone with a creative and entrepreneurial mind, you have many skills, talents, and interests. That's a given. But being clear about what you're good at and enjoy doing isn't always straightforward. Make a comprehensive list of everything you can do, from your professional experience to your hobbies and creative pursuits.
Consider how each of these can potentially generate income or how you could combine a few into a career. Don't underestimate the value of seemingly unrelated skills or interests; they can often be combined in unique and profitable ways.
#2 Diversify your income streams strategically
Multiple income streams are the cornerstone of a portfolio career and decide its financial sustainability. This can include freelance work, a part-time job (or "good enough job," as Barbara Sher calls it in her book Wishcraft), selling creative or online products, teaching workshops, consulting and coaching, or developing online courses.
The goal is to create a mix that provides both a stable base and opportunities for growth. Consider how you can use your different skills, talents, and interests to create a mix of income streams for your portfolio career.
#3 Understand that fear is the dreamkiller
As you start building a portfolio career, or if you've been thinking about what you could do for a long time but haven't taken any substantial action toward one or more ideas yet (hello, unfinished projects on the shelf, I see you!), it's important to acknowledge and understand that fear can be a major roadblock. Fear of failure, rejection, and not being good enough are all common fears that can hold us back from pursuing our dreams. The insidious thing is that fear often doesn't show up as fear. It disguises itself in very well-packaged excuses, such as "I don't have enough time" or "I'm not ready yet," or as perfectionism, people-pleasing, or procrastination.
It's important to remember that fear is just a feeling, and feelings can be managed and overcome. It's about shifting your perspective and learning to work through your fears.
#4 Price your services and products high enough
Many creatives struggle with pricing their work. Remember that your unique mix of skills and perspective brings significant value. Research industry rates, but also consider the value you bring to each project. As mentioned in my book "Get Unstuck!," building a business that feels right and using marketing practices aligned with your values is important.
Don't undervalue your expertise out of fear of not being good enough. Instead, price your services and products high enough to reflect the value you bring to the table. It is important for you to get fair compensation for your work and to help you build a sustainable business model.
#5 Collaborate and network with other creatives
Collaboration and networking are key components to any business or career, but as a creative generalist, I find it's more important than ever. We are still living in a world of specialists, and that can erode our self-worth and talk us out of our portfolio career dreams. By connecting with other creatives, you can expand your skills and knowledge through learning from others. Additionally, collaborating with others allows you to work on projects that may have been too large or complex to take on alone or that you were too scared to even start with!
My exclusive community, "Gen Spark," is here to do just that: facilitate collaboration and connection among creative generalists. Click here to discover more and become a member.
#6 Manage your finances mindfully
Financial management is key to making your portfolio career work - or any career or business for that matter. After working with creative entrepreneurs and generalists for a decade, I know that the admin and financial side of their careers and business are often not their strong suit. However, this doesn't have to stop you from being successful. With mindful and intentional financial management, you can stay on top of your finances and make good decisions about your career and business.
To start, it's important to understand the basics of personal finance, such as budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. This will give you a solid foundation for making financial decisions that align with your goals and values. I know it sounds scary, but you can do it!
#7 Never stop learning and growing
Continuously learning and developing your skills is important for a successful portfolio career. But one thing that is more important than any other is learning how your creative brain works. That is why psychoeducation into the uniqueness of your creative brain is part of my work with my clients.
How good is it to know how you should do something if you are unaware of how your brain actually operates? Understanding your strengths and weaknesses and how to work with them can be a game changer in your portfolio career.
Building your creative income as a creative generalist takes time, intention, strategic planning, and an unwavering belief in the value and uniqueness of your multifaceted self. But once you have laid the foundation and established a solid portfolio career, the possibilities are endless.
Ready to take real steps towards building your own thriving portfolio career?
Are you done with being confined to just one career path and ready to embrace your multi-passionate nature? Are you tired of feeling like you have to choose between your different passions and skills?
I can help! In fact, liberating creative generalists from the 9 to 5 is what I do best. Let's discuss your unique skills, passions, and financial goals and start mapping out a strategy for your portfolio career.
Manifesting Your Dreams: How Your Thoughts Can Shape Your Life as a Creative Generalist (I know it's woo-woo, but it works!)
As I set out to launch a new start-up project (check out CoachMila™.ai and let me know what you think!), I can't help but reflect on the incredible journey of being a creative generalist. This term has become an anchor for many of us drawn to a diverse and multi-faceted range of passions and interests.
Have you ever felt like your curiosity includes (but isn't limited to!) writing, technology, wellness, art, or even human connection and personal growth? If so, you’re in good company! How your brain is wired is a gift, and your interests are pulling at you, offering a unique perspective and endless potential. But let’s be honest - it can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Navigating the maze of possibilities can leave us feeling stuck, unsure which path to follow or how to combine our many interests. Add to that the stories we tell ourselves about who we should be and the comparison traps we fall into, and it's no wonder creative generalists often feel paralyzed.
Here's the good news: your creative thoughts can transform your life. By rewiring your mindset and intentionally aligning your thoughts with your dreams, you can manifest a life that reflects your unique gifts as a generalist.
The Power of Manifestation: Creative Thoughts Become Things
Over the past decade, I've explored and experimented more with the concept of manifestation - not as magic (although it sure does feel like it!) but as a process rooted in the science of neuroplasticity and the power of intentional thinking. Rewiring how we think - shifting from limiting beliefs to empowering ones - can transform how we see ourselves and build our dreams. Neuroplasticity teaches us that our brains are malleable; by intentionally shifting our thought patterns over time, we can create new neural pathways that align with our goals and values.
One of my favorite ways to put it is this: “The magic is not in the wand, but rather in the thoughts of the one holding it.”
For creative generalists like you and I - who often juggle multiple passions and ideas - this process is especially powerful. It allows us to embrace our multifaceted nature while creating clarity and focusing on what truly matters.
But let’s not sugarcoat it: rewiring your brain isn’t always easy. Your sheer number of interests can lead to scattered thinking, choice overload, fear of missing out, or even analysis paralysis. Comparison might creep in as we measure ourselves against other people's external metrics, like follower counts or career milestones. When this happens, it’s important to remember that change starts within you - by deliberately shifting your thoughts (over and over again, months on end) so you can create new mental patterns that align with what you actually want.
Practices for Rewiring Your Thoughts and Manifesting Your Dreams as a Creative Generalist
So, how do we begin rewiring our brains and changing our thoughts to manifest the lives we envision? Here are a few practices I've tried in recent years that have worked really well for me:
Mantra recitation with brain frequency music
I've been doing this for two years daily for twenty, and it has changed my life! Start your day by reciting empowering mantras on flashcards while listening to brain-frequency music, such as 417 Hz or other healing frequencies. This practice combines the cognitive benefits of NLP and repetition with the neural alignment provided by specific sound frequencies, promoting clarity, focus, emotional balance, and even lowering anxiety. P.S. If you want my Spotify playlist, DM me, and I'll share it!Create space for reflection
Spend time in solitude and stillness through meditation, journaling, or quiet walks in nature to notice recurring thought patterns and identify those that no longer serve you. This helps bring subconscious beliefs into conscious awareness, making it easier to reframe them.Reframe limiting beliefs
Challenge negative self-talk by replacing it with affirmations or empowering alternatives that support growth and possibility. Since last year, I've decided to treat every negative thought as false, and again, it has transformed my life! Honestly, is the negative chatter in our heads true? And, if not, does it deserve any of our time?Experiment
Try small projects related to your passions and observe what brings joy and flow. Remind yourself you're not making a decision or writing anything in stone; you're just trying something out. The benefit? These activities engage the brain's reward system, strengthening neural connections associated with creativity and fulfillment.Trust the process
Rewiring takes time; trust that even setbacks are part of building new neural pathways - and thoughts. But once the new thoughts take hold, you'll see the world in a whole new light. One day, you'll wake up and realize your life is entirely different, your habits have changed, and you feel more fulfilled. And that's the true power of neuroplasticity - the ability to shape our minds and lives through intentional thoughts and actions.
Embrace Your Inner Rebel and Activist as a Creative Generalist
As a creative generalist, you're not just someone with many interests, passions, and talents. You're also likely to possess a powerful inner rebel and activist. These traits are part of what makes you unique. Your inner rebel thrives on freedom and resists being boxed into rigid structures or routines, even when those constraints come from yourself (hello promises to me I keep breaking!). Meanwhile, your inner activist has a strong sense of justice and an innate drive to stand up for what's right, whether in your personal life or the world around you (aka, you hate following directions from someone who doesn't know what they are talking about).
These qualities can be incredible assets. They nurture your creativity and push you to innovate in ways others might not. However, they can also create challenges, such as procrastination, self-sabotage, or frustration when your work or life feels misaligned with your values. Recognizing these inner forces is a big first step toward working with them effectively so they don't stand in the way of your dreams.
How Psycho-Education Can Help You Manifest Your Dreams as a Creative Generalist
Understanding how your creative brain works - and why you think and act the way you do - can be the most reality-bending thing you'll ever do. This is where psycho-education comes in. By learning about the unique wiring of your brain as a creative generalist, you can develop strategies to work with your natural tendencies rather than against them. That's why it's an important part of what I do with my clients. For example:
Learn to collaborate with your inner rebel by giving yourself more freedom in how you approach creative projects. This might mean allowing for flexibility in your schedule or experimenting with different methods of working that feel more aligned with your energy and interests. My Freedom Planner is a great way to get started. Get your free copy here.
Empower your inner activist by channeling your passion for justice into meaningful projects that align with your values. Whether through art, entrepreneurship, or community work, finding ways for this natural drive to express itself can bring so much joy and fulfillment.
Manifestation begins with the belief that your thoughts shape your reality. As Gandhi wisely said: "Your beliefs become your thoughts, your thoughts become your words, your words become your actions…" This quote reminds me that by intentionally shaping my beliefs and thoughts, I can create an outer reality that reflects my inner transformation.
If you've ever felt like the world wasn't designed for someone like you, know there's nothing wrong with how you're wired. You're not an "ugly duckling" trying to fit into a world of specialists - you're a swan among swans in the world of creative generalists. Now spread those beautiful wings and show the world who you truly are!
No more burning out, people-pleasing, or picking just one thing.
Through my coaching, I provide psycho-education tailored specifically to creative generalists like you. Together, we'll explore how to embrace the unique way your brain is wired while building a career and life that reflects your passions, talents, and interests.
By understanding the science behind how your brain works - including its need for variety, freedom, and purpose - you'll gain tools for greater creativity, resilience, and clarity in everything you do.
The Paralysis of Perfectionism: Why "Good Enough" is Actually Perfect
Many people find themselves stuck, unable to move forward in their personal or professional lives. I know because I see a lot of them in my coaching practice. They feel held back not by a lack of ability or opportunity, but by an internal struggle: perfectionism. While seemingly a virtue and a very helpful quality to achieve your goals, the quest for perfection and flawlessness often becomes an obstacle to your goal, leading to procrastination, self-doubt, and, ultimately, getting and staying stuck.
After a decade of supporting creative generalists and entrepreneurs to get unstuck, I know how perfectionism impacts our drive and productivity. So before even trying once again to "just do the thing," look inward. Are you setting yourself up for failure by creating unrealistic expectations? Are you holding yourself back through negative and destructive inner chatter? If that is the case, trying harder won't make you finally move forward. Instead, you must shift your mindset and mentally recalibrate: you must transform how you see perfection and understand it's an illusion created by fear to keep you safe.
What is Perfectionism, Really?
Perfectionism is often misunderstood as simply striving for excellence or having high standards. However, again, after doing this work for a decade, I can tell you it goes way beyond that. At its core, perfectionism is an all-or-nothing approach to life. It's the belief that anything less than perfect is unacceptable and dangerous. This mindset is paralyzing, as it sets an unattainable standard - a mountain, as I often tell my clients, that we expect to climb in one step!
The High Cost of Chasing Perfection
Perfectionism may manifest differently in different people, but it always comes with a heavy cost:
Procrastination: The fear of not meeting impossibly high standards leads to delaying tasks. First, you create the mountain in your mind. Then, you procrastinate because it's too big of a task to climb it all at once.
Analysis Paralysis: Relentless overthinking and analysis prevent taking action. You're always thinking, trying to figure out how to reach the top of the mountain, but never actually taking the first step.
Self-Sabotage: The inner critic undermines confidence, fostering a belief that you are simply not good enough. If you were, you'd be on that mountain top already!
Lack of Creativity: The pressure to create something perfect will damage your capacity for innovation and experimentation. Instead of figuring out how to make it to the top, you'll be stuck in a rut, coming up with underwhelming ideas, not knowing how to begin.
Burnout: Always creating mountains for yourself, aka unattainable goals, leads to exhaustion and a loss of passion. How could you not get tired, always giving yourself impossibly high climbing levels?
These are only a few of the many negative effects or causes of perfectionism. One that is particularly powerful in keeping us stuck is what we say to ourselves. Let's take a closer look at that inner voice and how it keeps us from achieving our goals.
The Inner Critic's Sabotage
A common theme among my clients is the destructive voice of the inner critic. This voice whispers nothing but doubts, focuses on flaws, and convinces us that our efforts will invariably fail. Some examples of how this inner critic keeps us stuck include:
"No one will buy that; don't waste your time."
"This has been done before. It’s not original."
"There is nothing special about this."
"I don’t deserve that because I am not good enough."
"I will fail, lose money, and everyone will hate me."
"Making it is hard, and I will suffer."
One of my clients described his inner critic as saying, "Look, the mountain is beautiful but too high for you to climb it." Another client's inner voice was even more brutal, declaring, "You’re not going to be good at expressing your ideas...nothing you do will ever matter." This relentless negativity chips away at self-worth and destroys the courage to pursue a life worth living.
The Antidote: Embracing "Good Enough"
The key to breaking free from the paralysis of perfectionism lies in embracing the concept of "good enough." This doesn't mean settling for mediocrity. Instead, it's about recognizing that striving for excellence is valuable, but demanding perfection is self-defeating. "Good enough" acknowledges that limitations exist - of course they do! But it allows you to progress, learn, and grow without the crippling weight of impossible expectations (and imaginary mountains to climb).
Here are some strategies to help shift your perfectionist mindset to one that embraces "good enough:"
Challenge the Inner Critic: Actively question the negative thoughts and beliefs that cause your perfectionism. Are these thoughts realistic and helpful? Are they really true? Or are they based on fear and unrealistic expectations?
Set Realistic Goals: Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Make them so small that you can't even make a mountain out of them anymore. Celebrate small victories along the way to build momentum and confidence.
Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Shift the focus from the end result (the top of the mountain) to the process of learning and growing (climbing your way up slowly). Accept that mistakes are part of the journey and valuable growth opportunities.
Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. If you wouldn't wish this pressure on someone else, don't put it on yourself.
Embrace Imperfection: Actively look for opportunities to be imperfect. Share your work even if it's not flawless, leave things unfinished (by your standards), and let others see the process rather than the result. It will be freeing, I promise!
Set Time Limits: Instead of striving for endless improvement, set a realistic deadline and commit to finishing the task within that timeframe (hello, I see you; I know it's hard!). This prevents projects from dragging on indefinitely and allows you to move forward.
Celebrate "Done": Acknowledge and celebrate the completion of a task, regardless of whether it meets every expectation. With your high standards, things will never be "done," so you might as well just let them be what they are.
Redefine Success: Change your definition of success from doing everything perfectly and at the highest level to your personal growth journey, finding meaning in your work, and focusing on your well-being first.
Some Case Studies in "Good Enough"
The Entrepreneur: Savannah started and stopped many entrepreneurial projects because they "didn’t quite feel right." After having her daughter, she realized she was working on interesting things, but they "didn’t truly come from my heart." She found her purpose by shifting her focus to postpartum care and wellness and coaching for new mothers.
The Creative: Connie feels she has "the soul of an artist, even if I don’t have the skill (yet)." Rather than waiting until she has the perfect skills, Connie can embrace her creativity by experimenting, learning, and sharing her work. By cultivating a growth mindset, she knows growth comes through practice, not innate talent.
The Career Changer: Kathryn wants personalized, results-oriented help with a career transition. By making the most of her existing skills and experience, she can create a solid plan that focuses on progress today rather than an unattainable ideal in the future.
Conclusion
As I have witnessed in my life and through working with many gifted and talented people, you think being perfect will be gratifying, but it only causes frustration and stagnation: you get stuck and stay stuck.
By aiming for "good enough" instead, you can free yourself from unattainable expectations, move closer to your innate potential, and experience the joy of progress, creativity, and meaningful achievement instead of the pain of never reaching the top of the mountain. You can Get Unstuck!
Take the first step toward progress and Getting Unstuck
Perfectionism can keep you trapped in a cycle of frustration and inaction. Constantly striving for an unattainable goal leads to self-doubt, procrastination, and a sense of failure, preventing you from reaching your goals and experiencing true fulfillment.
Are you ready to break free from the chains of perfectionism and start achieving your goals? Are you ready to finally get unstuck? Take the first step now - sign up for a free coaching session with me today!