In less than a month I’ll travel to Champagne-Ardenne, France to take part in a two-week residency at Chateau d’Orquevaux.

It’s one of the top ten most beautiful residencies in the world and receives applications from creative humans from more than 125 countries around the globe.

Only 20% of people who apply are accepted.

While I am beyond thrilled and tear up with joy almost every time I think about the experience that awaits me, I want you to know this…

My inner critic is doing her damndest to fan the flames of imposter syndrome.

“You think what you want to write is worthy of a spectacular place like this?”

“These are REAL artists and writers from all around the world! Who do you think you are?”

“What if you get there and everything you write is shit?”

Thank the stars, I practice the same methods to manage my mind that I teach my coaching clients.

And, of course, I get coached weekly too. (I practice what I preach, y’all!)

That means when these unhelpful thoughts creep in to rain on my parade, I’m able to see them for what they are.

Not truth.

Not fact.

But a vain attempt by my brain to keep me safe by keeping things status quo.

It wants me to stay snuggly wrapped in the comfort of the known.

It wants me to not go out on a limb to try this scary and potentially embarrassing thing that could end up a huge public failure.

It’s just doing its job.

When I remember this I instantly feel more calm.

I have the wherewithal to access the other part of my brain ~ the part that serves me and my creative dreams.

The part that wants me to go to France and have the most phenomenal experience possible.

The part that believes people need and want the message I have to share ~ which is this:

Don’t let your creative dreams die with you!

Say yes to your creative callings!

They are worthy and necessary!

You will be a happier, healthier, more fulfilled human and the world will be a better brighter place when you do!

When I head to France next month both fear and joy will come with me.

I invite you to follow along too. (Click here to follow me on Instagram.)

Stay tuned!

In Part Two ~ I’ll share the non-linear creative path that led to this fabulous opportunity.

🌟💖🌟

Jill

P.S. ~ I broke down and cried 3 times while writing this blog.

I cried for my acceptance into the residency at Chateau d’Orquevaux and how simultaneously proud, happy and freaked out I feel about it.

I cried because I’m not going to let imposter syndrome stop me from going and having the time of my life.

I cried for all of the people in the world who have creative dreams hidden in their hearts that will never see the light of day because they won’t get the help they need to move past their fears and inner critic.

You have something those people don’t have.

The chance to work with me as your creativity coach.

Click the button below to schedule a call to learn how to make that happen before I leave for France next month.

Oui! Let's Do This!

Heading to France with fear and joy in my bag {Part One}