Pyrography as a Mindfulness Practice

Most people think of pyrography as a hobby.

And sure. It is!

But for a lot of us, it's something closer to therapy.

Pyrography Slows You Down. Whether You Want It To or Not.

There's something about picking up a burning pen that forces a gear shift.

The heat takes a moment to stabilize.

The wood (or whatever surface you burn on) responds to pressure and pace.

The smoke gently rises and gets pulled into your fan as if it were alive.

There is also no undo button…

That irreversibility changes how you move.

You stop rushing. You stop multitasking. You can't be half-present at a hot nib and expect good results.

That forced slowness? That's not a side effect of the craft.

That is the craft.

Presence Isn't Optional. It's Required

There's something that happens when you settle into a burn session. I've felt it myself, and I've heard it from artists at every level… The world just disappears.

The mental chatter starts to quiet. You stop running your to-do list. You stop replaying that conversation from earlier. You start noticing the grain of the wood, the resistance under your tip, the way the smoke curls up when you slow down.

Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, who spent decades studying flow states, found that regular access to deep focus (the kind you can't fake) builds measurable improvements in well-being over time.

That shift is real, and it's not just something artists talk about. A meta-analysis of 17 studies involving over 10,000 people found that greater mindfulness is directly linked to higher levels of flow, that state of deep absorption where reality as we know it just stops. You know, where you forget to eat, lose track of time, and catch yourself holding your breath.

Pyrography is essentially a manual entry point into exactly that.

You're not thinking about the future. You're not processing the past.

You're just burning. Here. And Now.

What Making The Book, Presence, Taught Me

A few years ago, I made a book called Presence.

The whole idea came from something I noticed in my own practice. Drawing radial symmetry made me slow down in a way that nothing else did. There was something meditative about the repetition. The rhythm of it.

But when I started burning that radial symmetry?

It went even deeper.

The pace of the pen, the heat, the permanence of each stroke… It created a layer of presence that went deeper than what drawing alone gave me. I wasn't just making art. It became a meditative practice.

And I get it, it might not be for everyone…. But it’s unlocked so much for me and got me through some really difficult times so I can't resist sharing this form of meditation with the world!

I've always felt like I'm meant to spread peace of mind through art. It's the ‘why’ behind everything I make and every space I build.

So if technical hiccups are getting in the way of that for you, I've got you covered! Check out these two free blog posts if you are new or running into issues:

10 Steps for Wood Burning By Hand or

The Pyrography Troubleshooting Guide

And if you're past the technical stuff and ready to go deeper; that's where Burn Flows come in.

What a Burn Flow Actually Looks Like

A burn flow isn't a project. It's not something you frame or sell.

It's a short, focused burn exercise (a texture or a repeated mark) designed to get you out of your head and into your hands. No pressure to make something finished. Just you, the wood, and the rhythm of the tip.

Inside Burn Club+, burn flows are organized by difficulty and nib type so you can

1. choose by what nib's you already have on hand, or

2. by the texture you want to practice.

Each one includes a timelapse of the full process and a step-by-step video where I walk you through it start to finish.

I am adding new ones every month, and members are free to request textures or specific nibs, or even just any kind of ideas!

The burn flows are one way in. But even without them, a little intention is all it takes to go deeper. Try any of these — one, some, or all of them:

• Before picking up your burner, take a moment to breathe and think about why you’re creating.

• Take a second and say it out loud: “I burn today with the intention to free my mind”

• Take it a little deeper and try to sync your breath with your movements: inhale as you lift the pen, exhale as you burn.

• Focus on the process, not the outcome. Instead of worrying about making a "perfect" piece, enjoy the sensations: the way the pen glides, the smell of the wood, the sound of the tip sizzling against the surface. Let yourself be absorbed in the moment and in feeling of the burn.

• Try a repetitive pattern. It doesn’t have to be a burn flow. It can be as easy as filling up your wood slice with dots, or repetitive lines, or all swirls…. The act of repeating shapes helps bring a sense of calm and order and if you are not thinking of what to do next, it’s not only satisfying, but you free yourself from making decisions and can embrace not thinking, even just for a moment. That’s presence.

You Don't Have to Be Struggling to Benefit

This isn't only for the hard seasons.

Burnout, grief, anxiety, overwhelm… yes, pyrography can be a really helpful anchor in those moments. But it doesn't have to be a crisis response.

Mental health works a lot like physical health. You shouldn’t wait until you're injured to start moving your body.

Consistent, small steps build a foundation. A daily walk isn't dramatic, but it compounds.

A burn session (even a short one) works the same way. It's a rep. It's practice. It builds something over time that carries into the rest of your day, your week, your life.

And it doesn’t have to be a Burn Flow. It can just be any kind of doodling. It can be tracing a template or a hand drawn sketch. It can be a piece that takes you a year to complete because you go slow and move with intention.

Focus on the process, not the outcome.

The goal is to practice presence so it becomes something you can access more easily, even when you're not holding a burning pen.

What Has Pyrography Done for Your Mental Space?

Because that's the thing about pyrography. It starts as a hobby. And somewhere along the way, it becomes something you actually need.

What has pyrography done for your mental space?

Reply here or bring it into The Burn Club.

8 Ways Writing Nurtures Your Mind and Mental Health

It all started with "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron. I didn’t know it at the time, but picking up that book would completely shift how I thought about writing as well as myself. My creativity came back after some hibernation and I felt newly inspired to make things again, and start burning and drawing again. And it didn’t feel forced. I just had mental space for the fun things, thanks to releasing the not-so-fun things floating around in my mind.

But at first…

I was reluctant to start writing.

Actually, I kinda really hated it.

I remember as a teenager, there was so much pressure around making my diary sound a certain way, trying to omit spelling errors, not knowing what to really write in general…. You would think that a diary is a private space and no one would read it so why worry about those things? But I didn’t know better. No one told me not to worry about what I sound like on paper. I wrote with the mindset that someone will (or might) read it and I wanted to sound cool. I wanted to sound interesting. I wanted to NOT sound like me (it’s almost like the cringe when you hear your own voice from a recording).

So I stopped.

Last year or two, I got a reccomendation to read this book, The Artists Way (check out that journey here: The Artists Way by Julia Cameron) and one of the daily exercises in it was the practice of freestyle, stream-of-consciousness writing.

Not for show.

Not for anyone.

Heck, not even for myself to re-read after!!

Seriously, I write so quickly that sometimes I cannot reread the chicken scratch that I wrote, and that is completely fine! Because it’s not all about the actual writing. It’s about process of it. It’s about getting the words, thoughts and ideas out of your head and onto something tangible.

It really, very quickly, gave me a peace of mind and helped me process things.

Then I stumbled across another book: The Power of Writing It Down: A Simple Habit to Unlock Your Brain and Reimagine Your Life by Allison Fallon and suddenly, the “why” behind it all snapped into focus. (here is a free audiobook on Spotify)

SO Why does this style of writing help heal and promote mental health?

This form of writing was a tool to help me heal. Almost immediately! Seriously, I noticed differences in the way I thought and what I though almost right away. It was magical.

Below are some reasons in the book, mixed in with my personal experience as to how beneficial it can be.

1. Emotional Processing & Stress Relief

Fallon emphasizes that this expressive freestyle way of writing lets you unpack what’s bottled up inside. This helps process emotions, reduce stress and anxiety, and gain emotional clarity.

2. Cognitive Clarity and Insight

By putting thoughts into words, Fallon explains how writing fosters clearer thinking, better decision-making, and goal setting. Expressive writing connects you with your subconscious, revealing clarity and helping crystallize what truly matters.

From personal experience, I found this to be really true! In my head, the thoughts are lightning fast, but my hand writing these thoughts down can only keep up so much… This forces my brain to slow down and process my thoughts without thinking 5 steps ahead and back to the beginning (goodbye rumination).

3. Provides a Safe Emotional Outlet

Journaling this way offers a private space to express thoughts and feelings without judgment, serving as a therapeutic outlet for emotions that might be difficult to share otherwise. If you are nervous someone might find it, then

writing and immediately burning or shredding or ripping it up is just as therapeutic as the writing itself!

4. Breaks Old Habits

Fallon shows how writing helps you identify and break those ruts in your brain. It helps rewire habits, reroute outdated thought patterns, and discover new pathways forward. Because once you take the time to think of these things and write them down, you see them more clearly. And once you see them more clearly, it’s much easier to do something about it!

5. Shifts your Mindset

Writing about challenges gives you space from them. It separates you, mentally and physically! You can see them more objectively, reframe the narrative, and respond with more compassion to yourself.

6. Improves Self-Awareness

Regular journaling encourages introspection, helping you recognize patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours over time. It’s not just the act of writing that matters, it’s the way handwriting naturally slows down your brain, like I mentioned in the first point. It’s creating space between thought and response. In that space, you’re able to “speak” without judgment and see yourself more clearly. Writing becomes a mirror, not just reflecting your experience but helping you look at yourself with more honesty, curiosity, and compassion.

Think of it like a muscle. The more you think about your feelings and emotions, the easier it is to recognize them!

7. Promotes Mindfulness

Mindful writing practices, such as focusing on the present moment during journaling, can enhance mindfulness, leading to greater emotional regulation and reduced rumination. I can go on for DAYS on the importance of mindfulness! There are many studies that suggest that focusing on the present can have a positive impact on health and well-being. And I feel it. This was a huge reason why I wrote my book, Presence, and a huge reason for creating The Burn Club with all it’s pyrography exercises (and non-pyrography exercises) to keep you in the here and now.

8. Strengthens Your Inner Voice

The more you write, the louder your real voice becomes underneath all the noise. Fallon describes this as a return to your intuition and inner knowing. This is huge for me because, all my life, I have unknowingly leaned into people-pleasing and perfectionism quite hard… I took more care of others, instead of myself. I am letting go of any blaming or feeling bad for myself, because kindness is this world is needed. But what I’ve learned was that I deserve my kindness too.

What writing has taught me is not only how to be kind to myself but also how to accept this kindness.

Incorporating writing into your daily routine can be a simple yet effective strategy to enhance mental health and cultivate mindfulness.

It’s very simple AND it’s FREE!

All you need is a paper and a pencil/pen.

How to write stream of consciousness style:

Writing in a stream-of-consciousness style means letting your thoughts flow exactly as they come. Write without editing, censoring, or worrying about grammar, spelling, or structure. This is not about writing well. It's about writing truthfully. Misspelled words, half-finished thoughts, tangents… It’s all welcome.

• Setting a timer helps to give it a start and a finish, therefore making it easier to complete. It also helps you not to get tempted to pause or overthink.

• Don't lift your pen or pause to reread. Keep your hand moving or your fingers typing, even if what you're writing is “I don’t know what to say right now.” That counts. Just keep going.

• If one thought leads to another, go there. Even if it feels random. That’s the point. You're learning how your mind moves, not trying to build a neat essay.

• Knowing that no one will read it (not even future you, unless you want to) frees you to be honest. If needed, plan to shred, delete, or burn it afterward. That alone can unlock a new level of depth.

If you are stuck, start by just describing what you see, hear or better yet, how you feel, even if it’s just “I’m feeling cold”. When a thought pop’s into your head, and it inevitability will, write it. Even if it’s “I have to remember to change over the laundry in 20 min”, then write that.

There are no rules.

Sometimes, I have started with a question to get me going. It can be as simple as “What am I grateful for today?” to something deeper like “Why did I react that way yesterday?” The question doesn’t need to be profound: it just needs to crack the door open.

When I. really really stuck or not in the mood, I ask ChatGPT (or you can ask google) “what do I write about today?”

I have seen a lot of resistance to writing with a special person in my life who is going through some hard times. None of these things worked for her because she didn’t think she was valuable enough to spend 5-10min writing. Or she didn’t think it would help. Or maybe she just didn’t know where to start.

So I got her this book: One Line a Day: A Five-Year Memory Book. The dates helped her keep a track of when she is writing, the spaces were small so it was quick and not overwhelming and there still aren’t any rules here; writing just words or in point-form further makes it freeing.

It’s about taking a moment to think about yourself for once! It’s not as good as the stream of consciousness writing, but it’s soemthing. And sometimes we just need to start somewhere. This is a good place for that.

Journaling with kids

Studies with school-age kids show that regular writing can ease anxiety and low mood and even boost working memory, and that expressive writing (the freestyle kind where they put their feelings into words, instead of just writing about their day) has an even stronger positive impact.

My daughter and I share our “Happy thought of the day” every night before bed where we name at least one thing that made us happy. I wanted to document that in a more concrete way and get my daughter into the habit of writing so she isn’t as traumatized about it as I used to be and so she has a habit formed early on.

So, I started a journal with her!

We write our happy thought, along with what we’ve learned and how we felt (even if it wasn’t great). Some days we wrote a simple quote out and decorated it. Some days we wrote a whole page of thoughts and events that happened, and some days we just drew a picture!

Again. There are no rules.

I’m hoping it helps her express her feelings and get to know herself, much earlier than I learned to know myself. I want it to feel like a safe place to talk to me on paper, especially as she moves into her teenage years. I also want her to have this tool for herself. So far, its gotten us to both sit down and be present in the moment in a fun and bonding way.

Writing has become more than just a creative outlet for me: it’s a lifeline. What started as morning pages turned into something deeper. It’s now a way to care for my mind, sort through tangled thoughts, and create enough calm that I actually want to show up for the things I love, like wood burning, drawing and making art.

Whether you're navigating stress, seeking clarity, or just trying to slow down in a noisy world, writing gives you a place to land. When your mind feels less crowded, it’s so much easier to feel curious, playful, and creative again.

You don’t need fancy prompts, perfect grammar, or a clear goal. You just need a pen, a bit of quiet, and the willingness to listen to what’s already inside you.

So the next time your mind feels heavy, try writing it down. Not just to get it off your chest, but to find your way back to the creative things you love.

The Organizing Method I Use for My Art Studio, My Supplies, and My Entire House

Growing up, Sundays were designated cleaning days. My three brothers and I would rotate tasks. Each task would include a section of the house; such as cleaning a bathroom, vacuuming the entire house or helping in the kitchen which included taking out all the garbage everywhere.

My dad had a ruthless rule. Sunday cleaning waited for no one and if things were left on floors in our bedrooms before it was time to vacuum, everything would get dumped on our beds.

One weekend, my room was a disaster, and he piled it all—books, toys, clothes—onto my bed, forcing me to deal with it before I could sleep in my bed.

I didn’t love the process, but I eventually learned something: tackling a mess is easier when everything is in one spot first.

It was easier to sort through everything when you can see it all at once.

This was revolutionary (Thanks, Dad!)

I consider myself very lucky because I genuinely love organizing. I love sorting and compiling everything around me.

I love doing it even more for others. Over the years, I’ve helped organize other people’s homes, both professionally and just for fun. Yes, for fun. It’s a LOT easier to organize for other’s as I am not sentimentally attached to anything… I don’t spend time thinking about what I want, its more of a logical choice.

When I took all peoples things and consolidated it all one place, like my dad did to me, people could see what they had and, with my guidance and support, were able to make choices of what to keep or not. It made me realize that consolidation didn’t just work for me, it helped others too.

Professionally, I needed to know how to charge them. I needed a plan of what we are tackling and how long it would take. When doing it for friends, I couldn’t tackle too much at a time otherwise they would be left with a disaster when it was time for me to go home, so a plan needed to be made.

This made me realize another thing. Choosing a focus or theme just made sense for timing and to not feel overwhelmed.

And so the steps were created:

STEP ONE: Choose a Theme

When there is a theme, or a space that I need to focus on, it makes it easier and faster to complete. 

I’ve realized that often when I try to organize a space or deep clean without a focus, I get sidetracked, overwhelmed, and stuck.  I end up jumping from room to room which turns into the entire house and very often leaves me in more of a mess than before… I start putting away one thing, notice something else that needs attention, and before I know it, I’m overwhelmed and nothing gets finished. But when I focus on a single theme, it’s so much easier.

You can choose as narrow of a theme (marker brands) or as wide of a theme (art supplies) as you want. Generally the more stuff in that theme, the more narrow you can usually get.

If you know you get overwhelmed easily, start with a small theme.

There is no hard rule here as themes can sometimes overlap (for example the dreaded junk drawer - it tends to have every theme you can think of in it!). Sometimes a theme is not related by similar items, but by location!

SMALL HACKs FOR CHOOSING A THEME:

If you are stuck on a theme, choose a space. Choose an area in your house that needs your attention: Where are you getting frustrated loosing items? Where do you avoid going? What do you avoid putting away? For example: 

• Is your front closet overflowing? Take everything out of it and you will see a theme emerge.

• Do you keep loosing your sponge or rubber gloves under the sink because it gets lost in all the stuff? Take out everything from under the sink, this is your theme.
  
  
  

Everyday themes You Can Organize:

If everything feels like a mess and you’re not sure where to start, another strategy is to choose an everyday category:

1. Hobby or creative supplies

🎨 Art materials (I am not a hoarder but I have A LOT of art materials. When I am organizing my art materials, I break it down even further, for example pens and markers, paper, sewing, beads and jewelry, oil pastels and chalk pastels etc.)
🔥 Pyrography tools
🪵 Wood for burning (or all burnable surfaces)
📚 Books & sketchbooks

2. Home and living essentials

🛏️ Bedding & towels
🍽️ Kitchen gadgets & utensils
🕯️ Candles & home decor
🔋 Random junk drawer items (this one is a tough one… It always takes the longest because everything is, well, random)

3. Clothing and accessories

👕 T-shirts & sweaters
👖 Jeans & pants
👟 Shoes
👜 Bags & accessories

4. Paper or office supplies

📂 Important documents
🖊️ Pens & markers
📒 Notebooks & planners
💌 Old greeting cards & letters

5. Sentimental and miscellaneus

This one takes long too so give yourself extra time for anything sentimental! this one is mentally taxing too so breaking it up into different days helps.

📸 Photos & keepsakes
🧩 Board games & puzzles
🛍️ Seasonal decor
🛠️ Tools & hardware

Again, if you get easily overwhelmed, choose a small area to sort, one that brings you joy (I can organize my art supplies for days…) or tackle one that has been a constant irritation.

STEP TWO: Consolidate

This is that fun moment of (almost) throwing everything into one heaping pile. Yes, it’s also terrifying as there is no turning back after you do this.

You will need to embrace the chaos for a moment.

I can’t prove my dad throwing everything onto my bed was the moment that shaped my approach to organizing, but as an adult, I’ve realized that the best way to get organized is to consolidate everything into one place before sorting.

This full dump moment applies at whatever scale you're working at.

Doing a drawer? Empty the whole drawer.

Doing a closet? Take everything out.

Doing an entire room? Clear the whole room.

The mistake isn't working in small sections. Small sections are fine. The mistake is doing a little bit in multiple places at the same time. That's what creates the feeling of constantly moving things around without ever finishing anything. You end up with three half-organized spaces instead of one completely done one, and nothing feels resolved.

Pick your scope. Commit to it completely. Don't touch anything outside it until it's done.

During the consolidation process, I try to sort roughly as I remove everything from it’s current spot:

• Designate a spot on the floor or a corner of the room for categories: i.e.. if i am sorting my art closet: I will try to put all my scissors in one pile, all my paper in another pile, all my pyro stuff in another and so on. This is a rough sort (more or less) until the closet is empty. Stuff that takes more than a couple seconds to decide where it goes, goes right in the the center as a miscellaneous pile.

• Throw out obvious garbage right away.

• If there are items that aren’t garbage but you know immediately that you do not want them, put them in a “donate” pile. Try to locate this pile the furthest away from where you are organizing so it’s “out of sight, out of mind” as much as it can be.

• If there are items that belong in another room or section of the house, put them in a pile by the door. Don’t go organizing these things, but get them out of your line of sight by placing them in a pile FURTHER away and by the exit.

• I usually make a “to fix” pile at this point too.

Don’t to think too hard about this part. It’s more of a rough categorization (I’ll give you some examples later on). The goal is to just clear the space. So, if starting to categorize is slowing you down, then just do the dump.

STEP THREE: Categorize

I absolutely love organizing things into categories and groups. There’s something so satisfying about gathering similar things together, seeing exactly what I have, all in one space. 

Make sure everything is in a category that makes sense. Put items together that match by type and or function.

For example, if you’re organizing the front closet, all the shoes (type) would go in one pile, all the jackets (type) in another pile, all the umbrellas in another, dog leashes in another etc… you may be surprised how many duplicates you have. 

You can then sort by function. All winter gear would be categorized (mittens, hats, boots) and the winter section would be a functional category because these items work in the winter and can be put away in a deeper location until they are needed).

The key here is to zoom in on each category of item so you can deal with the item.

STEP FOUR: Finish

In each category, you will have three options (if you haven’t already started doing this during the dump).

1. Keep

2. Donate

3. Trash

Donating and trashing items are self-explanatory.

Now. The keep items.

Essentially we want to designate a spot for each category of items. This means to put them away and give them a permanent home. This is the moment where you can start putting back the items where they came from.

Some tips to remember:

• I like to fix items that are easy to fix right away. If it takes longer than a few minutes, I designate a place in my house for things I need to fix/repair that will take longer and get to them when I have time.

• Put loose things that belong together in one container (i.e. all charged batteries in a small plastic bin, all batteries that need charging in another small plastic bin - label these for less confusion).

• Labelling may sound a little much but a label goes a long way (even if its just temporary). I use masking tape and a sharpie and keep the label on for a little while until everyone in the house learns the new spot. Often, I will make a nicer looking label with a label maker but sometimes I just leave the tape on forever or eventually take it off once the habit to put the item it’s spot is created.

• Make it accessible according to their function. For example, Winter holiday stuff can go in a box and be put away deeper than other boxes, or at the bottom because you take them out once a year. Art supplies, however, should be more accessible and easy to take out and put back in. 

• You don’t need to spend money to have an organized space. Sure, it’s nice to have the perfect pantry with all matching clear boxes organized in rainbow colours... But the idea is to have accessible and functional storage that makes sense to what you are storing. I use boxes that I have on hand, like shoe boxes and plastic bins, even food containers!
  
  
  

STEP FIVE: Reset and Maintain

Organization isn't a one-time event. Things shift. New items come in and life happens. The goal isn't to maintain perfection, it's to make putting things back easy enough that you actually do it.

A few things that make this realistic:

• The easier it is to return something, the longer the system lasts. If it takes more than a few seconds to put something back, the system will eventually break down. Fix the system, not yourself.

• Do a quick scope reset after heavy use. After a big project, a market, or a creative binge, take five minutes to return things to their spots before you walk away. It's much faster than letting it pile up. If you can’t in that moment, try to reset BEFORE starting another project or bought of creativity.

• When something consistently ends up in the wrong place, that's feedback. It means the designated spot isn't working. Move the spot, not the habit.

The system you built in Steps 1–4 only works if you follow and maintain it, in small consistent ways.

HOW I ORGANIZE: An Example

I use this method every time I clean. Instead of tackling an entire room, I

1. Choose and focus on a theme. In this case: puzzles.

2. Gather all the puzzles I own (consolidate) and put them in one place.

3. Then I sort them (categorize). In this case, the categories are:

• My puzzles (I have a couple puzzles that go high up in a place no children can reach because they are very special to me)

• Kids’ puzzles

• The rest of them (I put the kids on one side and more difficult ones on the other)

During this process. I make sure to:

✔ Fix up any broken boxes or peeling pieces—tidy the boxes, tape up any worn edges, and make sure all the pieces are there (this step is obviously easy for kids’ puzzles. for larger puzzles, I just wait to complete them). For boxes I cant fix, I will put all the loose parts in a container.

✔ Donate the ones I no longer love (after they have been repaired)

✔ Trash any that have no hope

And then I store them neatly so they’re easy to access and give them a designated spot on my shelf.

A Bigger Example:

I recently used this method to organize two really big categories in my house. 

First was Christmas stuff (step one: theme)

I collected and gathered everything in one room (step two: consolidation). Once the holiday season was done, I took all the decorations and supplies, along with a bunch of hand-me-downs from my parents.

There were boxes that have seen better days, ribbons from presents everywhere, lights, and general decorations….

Once it was all there, I started sorting (step three: categorize).  I took anything that was broken and either fixed it, took it apart to use in other ways or tossed it. This allowed me to see more clearly what I have.

Then I sorted everything into categories.

I put all the ornaments that could break in small boxes (which I taped up and fixed), I tied up all the lights with this awesome reusable Velcro straps made for cables, and put anything breakable in tissue paper or brown packing paper.

There was one section of the Christmas stuff that was kinda big: gift wrapping stuff. I found I had a lot of different ways to wrap gifts, so I further sorted this category:

• Gift bags

• Wrapping paper

• Tissue paper

• Gift boxes

• Gift tags

Then I found the gift wrapping items a home (first part of step four: finish)

As you can see below, I used random boxes that made sense and fit all the items. I could have put everything in a large box, but instead kept them like this in the shed because I like to be able to pull individual ones out when I need them. I don’t do all my wrapping at one time, so this will be more accessible and convenient to see and find the right size during the holidays.

Large Gift Bags, Tags, Boxes and Soft Bags

Wrapping Paper (new and used that I will reuse)

Small Gift Bags

Tissue Paper

The tissue paper is actually a category that overlaps. I keep it accessible all year-round with the gift bags and wrapping paper that is not holiday themed. Same with the ribbons, but some ribbons have snowflakes on them (for example) so those stay with Christmas things.

I labelled each box and put everything away in the shed (step four: finish).

The other theme I tackled was all my pyrography supplies and books—especially since I got a lot of goodies from Rachel recently. I gathered everything in one spot, sorted and categorized into the following categories: 

• Wood and surfaces to burn on

• Burners

• Tips and pens

• Other accessories (erasers, cleaning tools)

• Tracing things (graphite paper and all designs)

• Books 

I put everything in a large box and kept the items I used most out for now. More organization to come here.

But even just doing this step made such a difference and now finding things is easy!

Some themes are more fun than others, but in the end, when things are easy to find and look neat, it’s totally worth the effort!

Last bit of advice and final thoughts:

Organization isn’t set in stone—it requires some upkeep, especially for items used often. The easier it is to put things away (physically), the longer your efforts will last.

It’s much easier to keep track of your belongings when you can see them, which is why clear containers are ideal for frequently used items. Being able to quickly spot what you need helps prevent overbuying, misplaced items, and clutter from piling up. But when clear containers aren’t an option, labels are the next best thing. A simple, well-placed label removes the guesswork, making it just as easy to find and put things away.

Since belongings fluctuate (things get donated, new items come in, and some break), having a little breathing room in containers allows for flexibility and prevents constant reorganization.

Staying organized doesn’t have to mean massive overhauls (although sometimes things get so out of hand, they need to be big steps). Essentially small, consistent steps make a big difference. Taking a few minutes to return things to their place, decluttering one drawer at a time, or doing a quick reset at the end of the day prevents mess from piling up. These small habits add up, making organization feel effortless rather than overwhelming. A little effort now saves a lot of time and frustration later.

Do you have an organizing trick that works for you? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear!

Handling Burnout and Staying Motivated as an Artist

Burnout is a common issue for many creative professionals, including pyrographers. I know because I’ve been there… It can stem from the pressures of constant creation (especially when you’re trying to keep up with social media algorithms), running a business, or balancing multiple responsibilities. However, with the right strategies, you can manage burnout and reignite your passion for your art, finish those wood slice projects and create art that is true to you.

Understanding Burnout

Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. In artists, it can manifest as a loss of creativity, lack of motivation, and even physical fatigue (among many other symptoms).

Recognizing the signs early can help you take proactive steps to address it.

Signs of Burnout

• Persistent tiredness or fatigue

• Decreased motivation or interest in work

• Feeling overwhelmed or anxious

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Physical symptoms such as headaches or insomnia

Strategies for Handling Burnout

1. Take Regular Breaks

Incorporate short breaks throughout your day to rest and recharge. Step away from your work, stretch, or take a walk outside. Regular breaks can prevent mental fatigue and maintain your focus.

Short breaks during work sessions are great and long breaks between projects can prevent burnout on another level. I feel incredibly recharged after a 3 day camping trip where I am able to unplug from technology and life for an extended amount of time!

2. Set Realistic Goals

Avoid overloading yourself with too many projects at once. If you are like me, and have multiple projects on the go, try to focus on the top 2 to 3 so that you can actually complete some and feel good and motivated to continue completing more.

Also, make sure if you are feeling overwhelmed, try breaking down your tasks into manageable steps and setting achievable deadlines. This will help you stay organized and reduce stress.

Using tools to help you achieve your goals can help. Calendars can help you plan goals. I love using a calendar because I can easily see my other commitments and can plan accordingly.

Another tool I live by are these trackers. They have monthly goals or habits for short term planning as well as yearly goals for longer term projects. Game changers!

3. Practice Self-Care

This is an obvious one, but usually overlooked. Make time for activities that nourish your body and mind. This can include exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Self-care is essential for maintaining overall well-being and avoiding burnout.

I suffered from burnout and one thing that helped me in the hardest moments was writing morning pages, as suggested by "The Artist's Way". This book is great to help clear your mind, process thoughts, and uncover new ideas. The journaling is just part of the journey in this book. The thing I like most about it is that it makes self-care part of the homework and forces you to make time for yourself in special ways.

4. Stay Connected with Your Creative Community

Engage with fellow artists and like-minded individuals. Join online forums, attend workshops, or participate in local art events. Sharing experiences and ideas can provide support and inspiration.

5. Create Art for Yourself

Sometimes, making art just for the joy of it, without the pressure of external expectations, can be the most motivating. Go create for creating’s sake.

I often try to do things with the intention of them being something. Something perfect, something for instagram, something for someone. But doing art without that intention, just for yourself, is very very freeing and is not only a good way to stay motivated but also to help burnout while still being creative.

I love to create art with kids. It creates a no pressure and fun way to unwind when you work side by side with them or make something together!

6. Set Boundaries

Learn to say no to projects or commitments that overwhelm you. (This can be hard and takes practice). Prioritize your workload and allocate time for rest. Setting boundaries ensures you have the energy to focus on what truly matters. If it doesn’t allign with your values, your business, your goals, or doesn’t excite you, just say no.

7. Reflect on Your Achievements

Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. I love a good Ta-Da list where you celebrate your accomplishments. Reflecting on your progress can boost your confidence and remind you of your passion for your craft. Instead of looking at others, take time to look at yourself and how far you've come! If you’re a visual person, keep a journal or portfolio of your work. Sometimes I even like to scroll to the beginning of my instagram profile to see where I started. Looking back on your progress can remind you of how far you've come and inspire you to keep going. Celebrate all of your wins.

8. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If burnout persists, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable tools for managing stress and improving your mental health.

Staying Motivated

1. Seek Inspiration

Explore different sources of inspiration, such as nature, books, music, or other artists' works. Inspiration can come from unexpected places. I love to visit museums, art shows or craft fairs just to get me excited about creating again.

2. Experiment and Play

This is one of my favorite exercises when I am feeling stuck, uninspired or unmotivated. Experimenting with different forms of art or techniques within pyrography, not only expands your skills, but can reignite your creativity and keep your work exciting.

Allow yourself to experiment with new techniques, materials, or subjects. Playing and exploring can reignite your creativity and make the process more enjoyable.

Sometimes, doing something completely different, like reading, cooking, or gardening, can refresh your mind and spark new ideas. Collaging is one of my favourite things to do as all it requires is to just flip through some magazines and feel out what inspires you. It really gets my creative juices flowing to pick through images and put them together until I get an unexpected design!

3. Set Personal Challenges

Create personal challenges or goals to keep yourself engaged. This could be learning a new pyrography technique, completing a series of artworks, or participating in an art competition. The smaller and more achievable, the better, especially if you’re already feeling some signs of burnout.

4. Create a Vision Board

Visualize your long-term goals and aspirations by creating a vision board. Include images, quotes, and reminders of what inspires you. This visual tool can keep you focused and motivated. It can also be a push to try a new medium, like collage art, mixed media or even digital art.

I love Pinterest for this! I collect all my ideas visually in a board and then further divide ideas and inspiration into sub boards! What is great is that you can keep this private so only you can see it. AND if you want it to show up on your phone, here are instructions on how to do so!

5. Maintain a Balanced Routine

Establish a daily routine that balances work, rest, and recreation. Consistency in your schedule can provide structure and help you stay productive without feeling overwhelmed. Especially being an entrepreneur, it’s easy to just do things with the flow of what we feel like. That’s a perk of working for yourself. However, it can feel like you are very busy but get nothing done… Creating a routine, or at least keeping track of what you’re doing and how long things take can help you understand many things about your workflow and tasks.

6. Document Your Creative Journey

Keep a journal or blog to document your creative journey. Reflecting on your experiences and progress can provide insight and motivation. Keep it private or share your journey with your audience to connect and inspire others.

This can be an art project in itself, or it can be as easy as keeping photos in a folder on your computer with dates on them!

7. Find a Mentor or Coach

Seek guidance from a mentor or coach who understands the challenges of being an artist. Their experience and advice can provide valuable perspectives and encouragement.

Take care of yourself, and your art will flourish.

With mindful practices and proactive strategies, you can manage burnout effectively. You can maintain your passion and continue to thrive as a pyrographer with practicing the points above.

Remember, your art is not just your work—it's a reflection of your unique vision and creativity.

The Artists Way by Julia Cameron

"The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron a 12-week adventure designed to help anyone rediscover their creative mojo.

Each chapter mixes motivational essays, fun exercises, and some serious soul-searching tasks aimed at breaking down the barriers we set up against our own creativity.

It’s Basia here and I just wanted to take a moment and share this book and the beginning of my journey through it.

Rachel has completed the book several times and said that each time, she seemed to uncover new depths of herself as well as her creativity that even she didn't know existed. She recommended that I give it a try, and I'm embarking on this journey once again, alongside her.

Especially since moving an hour up North, I was in the thick of change and needed some guidance. I felt stuck with which direction to go, art wise, as well as in other facets of my life.

There are a bunch of tasks, and activities and such which go with each week, but there are two things you need to complete every week, consistently.

ONE:

The first is an artists date. This is a date with yourself, the artist, doing whatever it is you want to do! It can be as simple as going for a walk, to visiting the museum, to making a new art piece... It’s a chance to intentionally treat yourself!

My last date included going to the a small local greenhouse with a gardening store attached to it. I didn’t go with the intention of buying anything; I went with the intention of perusing slowly through the isles and looking at all the flowers, taking photos, getting inspired by all the colours, textures and nature. It’s such a simple thing, yet it made a big impact on my mood and inspired me in many ways… It was also really nice to slow down and literally smell the roses.

TWO:

The second part of this journey includes writing daily. It’s journaling but in a freestyle, nonsense way. More like brain dumping than anything.

I've never considered myself a writer; in fact, writing has always given me anxiety and felt like a chore. Previous attempts at journaling felt forced and were invariably brief. It took long and always came out sounding forced.

Julia Cameron suggests this freestyle way of writing that's all about just letting it out. Now I write quickly and freely, without concern for structure, spelling, or even readability. The purpose is to simply let the words flow, knowing I'll never revisit these pages (I actually burn a lot of the pages I write and my writing is so messy, i can barely read it)! This has proven to be incredibly cathartic and freeing with many many many micro epiphanies about myself, my life and everything around me!

My biggest epiphany so far is about the style of writing itself. Writing in this way allows me to slow my mental chatter to one thought at a time, helping me to process each thought thoroughly instead of letting them all swirl around unexamined (and worst of all, usually repeating). It’s a simple, yet profoundly effective, way to clear the mind, which I never knew I had to do… I really never knew this kind of expression existed and I never really knew I needed it!

If you've ever felt stuck, unsure, or just curious about what your creative mind can do, "The Artist's Way" could be a thrilling experiment for you. It’s not just about becoming an artist—it’s about becoming more yourself. You don’t need to be good at drawing, writing, or anything at all; you just need to be open to exploring what creativity means for you.

Click here to see the book on Amazon. This is an affiliate link; I strongly recommend this book to anyone in search of inspiration, self-reflection, self-exploration and motivation.

Possibly, in time, I will share more about my creations and how my dates go, as well as give insight into my journey with this book.

Basia's Radial Symmetry Art (Digital Form)

Basia here! As you already know, I love to make art with patterns. Especially circular and symmetrical patterns!

I really got into creating digital art because it was just so easy to create on the go. I moved up North and while my things were packed, there were images in my head that I had to get out onto something tangible.

These will definitely inspire my future wood burning work.

Of course, I still stick to nature themed images as they continue to inspire me to create more art and also to get outside more. I moved into the forest, and plan to continue taking more photos and playing with more nature to find and create symmetrical artworks.

These digital artworks were made using procreate using my own photo’s as well as AI photos (using Midjourney).

I am addicted. It is so much fun to create these organized abstract designs!

To see my collection, and get them in a sticker, on a pillow, or even a shower curtain, check out my shop:

Below is a time-lapse of a floral pattern I made using my photos, cut, paste, arranged and then arranged again:

What is radial symmetry to me?

a radial symmetry pattern to me is the end result of a mindfulness journey.

It is what I get at the end of a creative meditation, a zone out, a doodle session (whatever you want to call it!)

I use drawing a mandala (wether in digital format or on paper/wood) as a form of meditation.

The repetitive patterns I make help me zone out and immerse myself in each second.

If you want to learn how to make your own pattern (non-digital form), check out the Community Book of Templates (Radial Symmetry Edition) with instructions and a variety of templates for you to transfer onto wood and burn, OR the Art Deco/Art Nouveau style bundle, which I call Presence (digital and hardcopy available) full of templates and also step-by-step instructions to drawing your own patterns.

Once you learn how to draw your patterns, you can easily transfer them (or draw them directly) onto wood!

Click through the following links to learn how to transfer your designs using heat and without using heat!

Transforming a Dull Laundry Room into a Stylish Dog Washing Station

Home Project: Laundry Room

Welcome to my latest home improvement project journey! Today, I'm excited to share how I turned my uninspiring laundry room into a functional and chic dog washing station. With a little creativity and some DIY magic, I was able to breathe new life into this space and create a haven for both me and my furry friends.

Before:

Let's start with the before photos. My laundry room was, to put it bluntly, lackluster. The walls were painted a dull boring tan shade, the sink was outdated and too small to wash my pups in, the laundry machines were old and never got the clothes clean, the paint was chipping in places, and the countertops were a gross outdated tile. It was a space that kind of served its purpose but lacked personality and charm. It wasn’t a space I wanted to spend any time in, and we wanted to make it serve multiple uses: Laundry, Storage, and a Dog Washing Station without breaking the bank.

Products Used:

Before diving into the transformation process, let me introduce you to the MVPs (Most Valuable Products) that helped bring my vision to life: (Please Note: These include some Amazon Associate Links for the products we used. WBC receives a tiny portion of sales from Amazon)

1. Wallpaper: I chose a vibrant and eye-catching floral peel and stick wallpaper to add a pop of color and pattern to the walls. It instantly brightened up the space and set the tone for the entire room. Bonus: it is super easy to install yourself.

2. Sink: Say goodbye to the old, dingy sink and hello to the sleek and modern dog washing station. I opted for a deep stainless steel sink. It is not easy finding a sink that is both long and super deep. This one is 12” deep and 30” wide, and is perfect for my pups.

3. Wood Countertops: To add warmth and texture to the room, I installed custom faux wood countertops from IKEA. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they also provide a durable surface for all my laundry and dog grooming needs.

4. Faucet: We wanted a simple faucet with the retractable nozzle for easy dog washing, but it was also important to have the handheld off button for easy pausing. This $79 faucet was on sale for $39 on Amazon, and is perfect!

5. Dog Grooming Loop: This is key for a successful wash in our house. These dog grooming loops make it super simple to keep your dog in the sink while they are getting clean. We secured it to the wall using an eye hook, and now we are ready to clean our dirty pups, without breaking our backs!

6. Washer/Dryer Combos: This has been an absolute game changer! Two large capacity washer/dryer combos from GE. I put the clothes in and come back to washed and dried clothes! No more needing to rewash or re-dry clothes. No more forgetting clothes in the washing machine. This has been a huge time saver. And, it has the amazing feature of automatically dispensing detergent and softener. Laundry has become considerably more tolerable with these machines.

Transformation Process:

Now, let's talk about the fun part – the transformation process! With the help of some handy tools and a lot of elbow grease, I was able to turn my laundry room into a space that I'm proud to show off.

1. Prep Work: The first step was to clear out the room and remove the old countertop and sink. Once the space was empty, I prepped the walls for wallpaper installation by filling in any cracks and sanding down rough surfaces. (Spackling Compound, Sanding Sponge)

2. Wallpaper Installation: With the walls prepped and ready to go, it was time to apply the wallpaper. This step required careful measurements and precise cutting to ensure a seamless finish. After a few hours of work, the wallpaper was up, and the transformation was already taking shape. (Razor Blade Pen)

3. Time to paint those drab lower cabinets. I wanted it to be a color in both the laundry machines themselves and in the wallpaper, and this dark grey is it! (I used a paint we already had on hand from my stairwell trim, it was the perfect color and helps tie the house together).

4. Sink, Faucet, and Countertop Installation: Next up was installing the new sink and countertops. This involved some plumbing work and carpentry skills, but with the help of my handy hubby, measuring multiple times, some liquid nails, and a bit of trial and error, we were able to get everything installed correctly. (Liquid Nails, Quick Clamps)

After:

And now, the moment you've all been waiting for – the after photos! Drumroll, please... Ta-da! The once-dull laundry room has been completely transformed into a stylish and functional dog washing station. The vibrant wallpaper adds personality to the space, while the sleek sink and wood countertops provide both beauty and practicality.

Final Thoughts:

In conclusion, I couldn't be happier with how my laundry room makeover turned out. By investing a little time and effort, I was able to create a space that not only serves a practical purpose but also brings a bit of joy to my not so joyful chores. Whether I'm doing laundry or giving my furry friends a bath, this room now feels a whole lot better.

Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope you feel inspired to tackle your own home improvement projects. Stay tuned for more adventures in DIY!

Burning is Art. Art is Therapy.

While many people enjoy pyrography as a hobby or artistic pursuit, it can also be a powerful tool for promoting relaxation and mental well-being.

“Burning is art. Art is therapy”

Rachel Struass

Here are some reasons pyrography can be used to support mental health:

Stress Relief:

One of the benefits of pyrography is its ability to promote stress relief. When engaging in this activity, individuals are often able to disconnect from the stressors in their daily lives and focus solely on their creative pursuits. It can provide a distraction from everyday life. When you're focused on the activity, you may be less likely to ruminate on negative thoughts. This can help reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm.

Mindfulness:

Pyrography also encourages mindfulness, which is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment. When working on a pyrography project, individuals must focus their attention on the details of the design, which can help them remain mindful and present. Wood burning requires us to go slower than we are used to with other mediums. This slowed down pace can induce a state of "flow," which is characterized by complete absorption in the task at hand.

Improved Mood:

Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities can improve mood and promote a sense of well-being. Pyrography is no exception. By providing a creative outlet, this art form can help individuals feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, leading to improved mood.

Increased Self-Expression:

Pyrography allows individuals to express themselves in a unique and personal way. By choosing their own designs and colors, individuals can create pieces that are reflective of their personal style and preferences. Wood burning allowing you to express your emotions, thoughts, and ideas in a nonverbal way. This can help increase self-expression and boost confidence.

Sense of Community:

Here, at Wood Burn Corner we are all about community and sharing each others art with the world. Being part of Burn Club can provide a sense of belonging and social support, which can be beneficial for mental health. We support and healp each other through the ups and downs of learning a new skill and art form as well the trials and tribulations of owning a creative business. If you want to know how to get more involved in the community, click here!

Pyrography is an excellent activity for promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and mental well-being. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, engaging in this activity can provide a range of mental health benefits, including stress relief, improved mood, and increased self-expression.

Now, pair up pyrography with radial symmetry and it becomes a whole new world of practicing mindfulness!

Radial Symmetry patterns, also commonly known as a Mandala, have been recognized by psychology as a therapeutic tool. Swiss psychologist Carl Jung said they’re like representations of our mind. He thought they made it easier for us to concentrate on, transform, and internalize subconscious thoughts. His belief was that we project our emotions and thoughts into the mandala designs.

“For me, a radial symmetry pattern, or a mandala inspired art piece, is the end result of a mindfulness journey.”

-Basia Chmielowic

These repetitive patterns are what I get at the end of a creative meditation, a zone out, a doodle session (whatever you want to call it!).

It is a form of meditation for me as the repetition of each pattern allows me not to think about the end result, but rather a focus on each small section at a time.

Repeating the same design helps me zone out and immerse myself in the moment.

Two ways to learn how to draw your own mandala designs:

1. Read:

Choose from two books full of mandala inspired patterns complete with written instructions on how to draw your own designs from scratch!

The Community Book of Templates offers designs by Basia and the community in a variety of themes as well as pyrography basics.

The Presence Bundle features Basia’s designs inspired by the art deco & art nouveau movements. No pyro information but links to resources to get you started.

These two items each include a radial symmetry guide and a set of their own unique designs to practice pyrography with. Either way, you will learn to create endless unique radial symmetry designs!

2. Watch:

A step-by-step video tutorial on DIY radial symmetry patterns and how to wood burn them:

Intro to Wood Burning + DIY Radial Symmetry Patterns

CA$15.00

LEARN TWO CREATIVE AND RELAXING ART FORMS IN ONE!

Step-by-step instructions on how to wood burn and pyrography basics like safety, techniques and more (template included

+

Step-by-step instructions on how to create your own radial symmetry patterns and transfer them onto wood!

*Due to the nature of this product, we cannot offer refunds once the purchase has been completed.

Add to cart

Or the video tutorial on DIY radial symmetry patterns without the pyro part:

DIY Radial Symmetry Patterns

CA$10.00

Step-by-step instructions on how to create your own radial symmetry patterns!

*Due to the nature of this product, we cannot offer refunds once the purchase has been completed.

Add to cart

A Radial Symmetry Guide and Colouring Book

This is a radial symmetry guide, a collection of 25 unique colouring designs, three blank grids and six outlines to doodle in providing a gateway to a world of mesmerizing patterns, relaxing mindfulness and endless creativity.

For all you pyrography artists, the 25 designs are also made for traceability so you can transfer/trace and burn them! Instructions to that are included on the initial download with the digital version.

Designed to help both novices and seasoned artists explore the captivating realm of radial symmetry, this book guides you step-by-step through the creation of intricate and balanced designs.

The first half of the book dives into all the details from making a grid, to 7 different creative variations of a circular pattern.

The intention is to give you the knowledge and easy to follow instructions for you to continue making one-of-a-kind radial symmetry patterns using only a few basic tools.

It includes 3 blank grids for you to practice on.

Print out as many as you like with the digital download!

And it also includes 6 outlines (in 3 different styles) for you to practice on and doodle in along with a simple creativity exersize to get you going.

The second half of the book has 25 original patterns for you to colour and reimagine. Inspired by the art deco and art nouveau artistic movements, the intention with these finished patterns is the get you inspired, relaxed and also hone in your artistic skills.

Not only can you grab your favourite colouring tools, let your imagination soar, and get ready for a transformative artistic journey, you can also learn a new hobby.

Learn How to Wood Burn

The book includes links to free resources that help you take the patterns off the page and onto wood.

If you’ve ever wanted to go beyond coloring and actually try your hand at wood burning, this is your invitation.

You’ll learn exactly how to transfer the designs and start burning your own radial symmetry art—no guesswork, just a clear path into a whole new creative world.

OR download a digital copy to easily resize any design in the book and wood burn onto a wood slice using the art of pyrography!

Links to all the resources you need are included and are free.

Embracing the New Year: A Guide to Setting Goals

As the New Year approaches, the air fills with a sense of renewal and opportunity. It's a time when many of us reflect on the past year's journey and set our sights on what lies ahead. Setting goals for the New Year is a tradition as old as time, serving as a catalyst for personal growth and achievement. But how do we set goals that inspire us, push us forward, and are realistically achievable?

A great podcast to listen to is by Dr. Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist and professor, who makes goal setting less intimidating and more impactful. Take a listen here: The Science of Setting & Achieving Goals and read on!

Here's a guide, with the help of our own experiences, Burn Club Plussers experiences, and Hubermans expertise to setting meaningful goals for the New Year:

Reflect on the Past, Envision the Future

Before setting new goals, take a moment to reflect on the past year. Really block out time here from all distractions and find yourself a quiet spot to think. What were your successes and setbacks? What lessons did you learn? Reflection provides valuable insights that can shape your future goals.

Envision what you want the upcoming year to look like. Imagine the accomplishments, the personal growth, and the happiness you wish to achieve. Huberman emphasizes the importance of having clear, defined goals. He suggests visualizing not just the end goal but the process required to achieve it. This mental rehearsal can prepare the mind and body for the tasks ahead and increase the likelihood of success.

Personally, this exersize of visualization really helped clarify the larger goals and all its smaller steps. It can be in the form of a mental exersize, a Pinterest collage, or even a magazine collage. Whatever works for you to really see what you want clearly.

Set SMART Goals

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework helps in setting clear and attainable objectives. For example, instead of saying, "I want to be healthier," a SMART goal would be, "I want to exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week, and eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily."

Break Bigger Goals into Actionable Steps

Large goals can often seem daunting. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. If your goal is to write a book, start with writing a certain number of words each day or outline one chapter per week. Small steps lead to big achievements over time and provide the opportunity to celebrate along the way!

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation, plays a significant role in goal setting and achievement. Huberman advises understanding how to manage and optimize dopamine levels through rewarding progress, breaking down goals into smaller, achievable tasks, and maintaining a balance between challenge and reward.

He also discusses how moderate stress can be beneficial in the context of goal setting. It can enhance focus and performance, acting as a motivator. However, managing stress levels is crucial, as too much stress can be counterproductive. Along with self care and life balance, breaking up goals can be a great way to manage the stress and not overwhelm oneself with a large goal.

Hold Yourself Accountable

Keep track of your progress and celebrate small victories along the way. Consider maintaining a journal or using an app to monitor your journey towards your goals. Or if you, like me, prefer using the old fashion pen and paper, try an accountability tracker. Not only is it satisfying to mark off each day’s goals, but it is also a visual reminder of your progress

Click here for the radial symmetry Trackers we use (like you see here).

Dr. Andrew Huberman emphasizes the importance of strategic goal setting and accountability. According to Huberman, sharing goals with others can sometimes trigger a premature sense of accomplishment, reducing the drive to actually achieve the goal. He suggests a more nuanced approach: share your goals selectively with those who can offer constructive feedback or support, rather than seeking widespread validation.

Huberman also highlights the value of internal accountability, where setting clear, measurable objectives and regularly reviewing progress can significantly enhance motivation and likelihood of success. He encourages individuals to leverage the brain's reward system by celebrating small wins along the way, which can sustain momentum and foster a sense of achievement throughout the journey toward larger goals. By understanding the neurological and psychological aspects of goal setting and accountability, individuals can tailor their approach for maximum effectiveness and personal fulfillment.

Prioritize Self-Care

While pursuing goals, remember to prioritize your well-being. Set goals that encourage a balanced life, incorporating elements of work, rest, play, and personal growth.

In his podcast, Huberman speaks about creating an environment conducive to success. This includes managing distractions, ensuring adequate sleep for brain function, and considering the timing of tasks aligned with individual circadian rhythms.

Self-care isn't just about relaxation; it's about doing what's necessary to maintain your mental, emotional, and physical health.

Embrace Flexibility

Life is unpredictable, and your path to achieving goals may need to adjust. Be flexible and open to change. It's important to remember that the path to any worthwhile achievement is often laden with obstacles and setbacks. Rather than viewing these as failures, consider them part of the learning and growth process.

If an approach isn't working, pivot and try something new. Flexibility helps you stay resilient and persistent.

Stay Positive and Patient

Goal setting is an optimistic endeavor. Stay positive and patient with yourself. Some goals will require more time and effort than anticipated. Embrace the journey, learn from the process, and keep pushing forward.

One thing Basia loves to do is create affirmations that she can personalize using Canva. She have them show up on her phone so she can be reminded about her goals, ambitions or just to provide a little motivation everyday to keep at it.

As you embark on this New Year, remember that setting goals is about more than just listing desires—it's about creating a roadmap for a fulfilling year ahead. It's about understanding where you are, deciding where you want to be, and taking proactive steps to get there. With thoughtful planning, commitment, and a positive mindset, you're well on your way to making this New Year a truly transformative one.

Remember also that goal setting isn't only confined to the start of a new year; it's a beneficial practice that can be undertaken at any time. Engaging in goal setting sessions throughout the year allows for continuous growth, adaptation to change, and the ability to seize the moment whenever inspiration strikes.

Happy goal setting!

Rachel's February Reading List

February was a shorter month, and work on the Pyrography + Business Summit picked up, so I didn’t get quite as many books read as I would have liked. What I did read, I mostly enjoyed, and I am excited to share them with you.

All books are linked directly to Amazon for easy purchasing. I receive a tiny portion of Amazon’s profits if you choose to purchase one, but this in no way effects my reviews. I will always be honest with my thoughts on products, books, services, etc.

1. Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuk - I really like Gary as a no-nonsense speaker on business. He is a bit abrasive, but in a good, motivating way. This book talks about give, give, giving before you ask of your customers/clients. The jabs being the value you provide and the right hooks being the ask. Effot is important for telling your unique story in a noisy world.

2. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng - I liked this book, ok. It is a NY Times Bestseller, but I have read better as of late. The characters were well developed, there is an artist in the story, and a couple twists and turns. There is a push and pull with the storyline, and it is clear that there is no black and white or wrong and right when it comes to some things, and there are plenty of those in this book. Well written.

3. The Power of Persuasion by John Myers - Lots of persuasive tactics. At one point he lists off over a hundred different ways to convince people to do something. It is also helpful in being able to spot persuasion when it is being used on you.

4. How to Stop Time by Matt Haig - “It only takes a moment to live.” This was a very cool book. Gets you thinking about the long and short of history and how it repeats itself. Really enjoyed the concept and the name drops throughout. I loved how the author played with time, locations and memories. “Sometimes you can just look around and be happy right where you are.”

5. Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover - Another great story from Coleen Hoover. Heartache, death, forgiveness, and connection, this book has it all and you will fly through it. You will feel for the main character who is stuck in an impossible situation. “Regret keeps you stuck on pause.” Makes you think about mistakes that you have made in life, and how one small act can change everything. “Are you going to live in the sadness or die in it?”

6. On The Shortness of Life by Seneca - This was recommended by several Titans in their fields out of the book Tools of Titans by Timothy Ferris. It is a really really old book written by a Roman philosopher. It is said her wrote it to his father-in-law, a mortal essay. It has since been translated and transcribed over time. “Life is long if you know how to use it.”

7. Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon - Our Keynote Speaker for the upcoming Pyrography + Business Summit! This is a NY Times bestselling book with over 1 million copies sold in English alone. Such a great read that I think every artist out there should get their hands on. “Do good work and share it with people.”

8. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens - This was a STUNNING book! So incredibly well written, and made you feel like you were there, in Kya’s beautiful world. It is a story of perseverance through extreme neglect, trauma, and solitude. A beautifully sad story that definitely made me weep. Trigger warning for SA.

9. Talk Triggers by Jay Baer and Daniel Lemin - This book was all about ways to get the most powerful and efficient marketing tool, word-of-mouth, to trigger. The types of talk triggers that can be utilized for business, and how to get it working for yours. It was good and I got a couple good points out of it, but I think it is best for larger corporations rather than small creative businesses.

10. Show Your Work by Austin Kleon - Another book that EVERY ARTIST NEEDS TO READ! Do good work, and the rest will come. This author, Austin Kleon, is so great at getting right to the point in both his writing and illustrations. For a visual learner, like myself, this is really helpful. Can’t recommend his trilogy enough, and so excited to hear him speak in May at our Summit!

Want to know what I read in January? Check out Rachel's January Reading List

Goal Setting and Creating Habits with Radial Symmetry Trackers

There's never a wrong time to set new habits and goals. Life constantly evolves, offering endless opportunities for growth and improvement. Whether it's personal, professional, or health-related, every moment is ripe for change and self-betterment. Embracing this mindset allows us to continuously evolve and adapt, making the most of each day as a fresh start towards achieving our aspirations.

A daily habit tracker gives you small wins to look forward to every day!

If you enjoy making to-do (and ta-da) lists, then you will enjoy tracking your daily habits, and you will find that you accomplish way more in a day. If you are anything like me, you may be thinking, that is great, but I will stop using it in a week/2 weeks/2 months. I have a solution for you! Put this list next to a habit you already have in place. Something you do daily without fail. For me, that is brushing my teeth at night before bed. I will do this no matter how tired I am. Putting my tracker next to my toothbrush has not only given me something to do during the two minutes I am brushing, but it also ensures that I do it DAILY without fail, too! Try this hack, and I think you will find that you stick to your tracker, and therefore your larger goals.

We love to use our own trackers we made.

track three habits a day:

3 Habits Individual (31 Day) Tracker

CA$2.00

Track up to 3 habits each month with this mandala style habit tracker.

**** A numbered and blank version are included****

Enjoy filling in 31 spots every time your habit is completed!

*Due to the nature of this product, we cannot offer refunds once the purchase has been completed.

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3 Habits Monthly Tracker for the Year (leap year included)

CA$5.00

Track up to 3 habits each month with this mandala style habit tracker. Track your monthly habits using this circular habit tracker by colouring or doodling in shapes!

**** A numbered and blank version are included****

Enjoy a year of filling the spots every time your habit is completed!

*Due to the nature of this product, we cannot offer refunds once the purchase has been completed.

Add to cart

Track Seven Habits a day

7 Habits Individual (31 Day) Tracker

CA$2.00

Track up to 7 habits each month with this mandala style habit tracker.

****blank and numbered versions included!*****

Enjoy filling in 31 spots with whatever doodles you want, every time your habit is completed for the day!

*Due to the nature of this product, we cannot offer refunds once the purchase has been completed.

Add to cart

7 Habits Monthly Tracker for the Year (leap year included)

CA$5.00

Track up to 7 habits each month with this mandala style habit tracker. Track your monthly habits using this circular habit tracker by colouring or doodling in shapes!

****A numbered and blank version included!*****

Enjoy a year of filling the spots every time your habit is completed!

*Due to the nature of this product, we cannot offer refunds once the purchase has been completed.

Add to cart

Or track a single habit for a year!

Daily Habit Tracker for The Year (leap year included)

CA$4.00

Track a habit or goal each day for a year with this mandala style habit tracker. Good for quitting bad habits too! Colour in each day you went for a run, for example!

You can start any month or day.

Print this tracker off as many times as you like, for as many habits as you want (leap year is included).

*Not for Resale.

Enjoy a year of filling in the spots every time your habit is completed; make a small step everyday that brings you closer to your goal.

Add to cart

Need some guidance on finding focus and creating the goals you need? Check out: Focus Five - The 5 Things That Describe Your Business

WHY TRACK?

Daily trackers make goals more attainable and less intimidating. Rather than looking at a large goal and how long it will take, a habit tracker allows you to break it down into daily wins.

The beauty of a tracker is that you get to track what YOU want to track. You get to personalize it to your individual goals. Whether that be personal and/or business.

You can use these trackers for personal items like:

• exercise

• water intake

• mood

• stretching

• meditation

• journaling

• gratitude

• creating art

• alcohol intake

• reading

• medications/vitamins

• and so much more

You can also use them for your business goals.

You can track longer term goals and/or small daily actions that add up to your larger picture goals for yourself and your business. Track things like:

• crossing off at least three things from your to do list

• stopped working at 5pm and/or started by 8am

• no personal social media during business hours

• took a walk at break time

• writing a blog

• posting on a social media platform

• pinning on pinterest

• checking in on asana (or your daily to do list)

• spent 5 minutes plugging away at a long term project (i.e. organizing canva documents or your google photos or a course you are creating)

• spent less than 15min on social media (check your IOS device for a breakdown)

• promoting/marketing yourself

• whatever it is YOU want to work on for your business to reach your goals

Being able to see each day filled out with a simple pattern or color gives you a sense of accomplishment and a positive feeling. It gives you motivation to keep filling each day up and complete the month. It keeps you on track for your goals and the best part is that you decide what those goals are.

We’ve created printable, mandala style habit trackers! These can be used in a couple ways. The first way is simply coloring each section in with color(s). The other way is doodling in each section with little creatures, nature pattern or whatever you are into!

Once your habit is done (or at the end of the day, when you are brushing your teeth and getting ready for bed) you can make a quick doodle, like a heart or just some simple lines. If you are feeling fancy, add some detailed patterns. When your month is complete, you will have a pretty mandala that makes you proud!

We have individual trackers with 31 spaces or you can get the whole year where each tracker is numbered and has it’s corresponding spaces!

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Rachel's January Reading List

One of my biggest goals for this year is to read more. I have ADHD and have always struggled with reading. I would read a page while my mind wandered and then have to re-read the page again. I found that this was especially true when I was reading material that I did not enjoy, or really that I was not in the mood to read.

Well, I don’t know how I started doing this, probably out of just not wanting to read what I was currently reading that moment, but I started picking up more than one book at a time. Like, 8-12 books at a time. This might sound ludicrous, but it allowed me to pick up the book that I am in the mood for, and therefore can actually focus on what it is I am reading. IT HAS CHANGED MY READING GAME!

The other thing I implemented at the beginning of the year was starting a daily tracker to track my habits. I wanted to create better habits, and focus on my goals for the year, but again, struggled with keeping up with a tracker. I wrote about it in this blog post, but basically I hacked the system by putting my tracker next to a habit I already have: brushing my teeth. Now, I don’t miss any days of tracking my habits, and this has been an incredible encourager as well as accountability for the things I want to focus on this year.

So, in doing these two things, my read book count for the month of January more than doubled the normal number of books I read in a year!

Here is what I read, in the order I finished them, and my take on them:

1. Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal - A delightful read. Surprising and fun. Some erotic stories, and some humor. I’d recommend this one.

2. Yearbook by Seth Rogen - I listened to this one, and I am glad I did. Hearing it in Seth’s voice was great. A mischievous kid with some funny stories.

3. Love Warrior by Glennon Doyle - I LOVE Glennon! I think she is a great thinker of our time. I love her sensitivity, and her honesty. This is an autobiography and touches on love, religion, cheating, self-growth, and being your authentic self.

4. One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus - This was a fantastic story, the author had me convinced it was a true story. Clearly well researched, and well written. The concept: 1,000 white women are to live and bear children with Indigenous people of America in exchange for horses to help colonize them. Such an interesting read.

5. Regretting You by Colleen Hoover - I read almost all Colleen Hoover books in a day. They are really hard to put down. This was told from a mother and from a daughter’s perspectives. It is steamy, there is tension, and as always with Colleen Hoover books, twists and turns. Great and quick read.

6. It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover - This Romantic book does come with a domestic violence trigger warning. So much passion, tension, love, and fear in this novel. Could not put it down.

7. Emotionally Absent Mother by Jasmin Lee Cori MS LPC - I listened to this book. This is about relationships, and attachment styles. I have been doing a lot of therapeutic work, and this was a hard one for me, but necessary. If you have a difficult relationship with your Mother, I recommend this read.

8. Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover - Another great one from Colleen Hoover. Couldn’t put it down. Trigger warning for drug abuse, and neglect. It involves falling in love, trust, and heartache. Full of twists and turns. You really feel for the main characters.

9. Mother Hunger by Kelly McDaniel - Another book recommended by my therapist. It was healing for me to read this. Helped me to understand myself more, and validated my feelings.

10. Art of War by Sun Tzu - A very quick listen. It really is a book about the art of war, and yet the lessons in it can be used for almost anything you encounter in regular life. I bought this one in physical book form after listening to it.

11. Idiot by Laura Cleary - I listened to this lighthearted book. Trigger warning for domestic violence and addiction. It was just ok. It is an autobiography of Laura, a comedian and Tiktok star. It had good reviews, but I am not sure I would recommend it and don’t plan on reading her other book.

12. 4 Hr Workweek by Timothy Ferriss - EVERY ENTREPRENEUR SHOULD READ THIS BOOK. So many pages dog eared, and I fully plan on reading it again.

13. Tools of Titans by Timothy Ferriss - I listened to this 24 hour long book. It is interviews from Titans in different fields. Very interesting and gave me some great ideas. If you like hearing interviews, this is a good one. Took some really valuable things away from this as well as many book recommendations.

14. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield - Self-help book for the creative. It will help you break through blocks, win inner creative battles, and get rid of resistance. The author encourages you to lean in and get a little scared. Follow your passions and create for the sake of creating.

15. Essentialism by Greg McKeown - I love this author. I listened to this one. It is about eliminating the unnecessary, and focusing on the essential parts of life and business. Choosing choice. Highly recommend it.

WANT TO KNOW WHAT I READ IN February? CHECK OUT Rachel's February Reading List

To-Do List and Ta-Da List

These two lists are part of the secret to become more impactful, to stay on task, and accomplish more as well as feeling more accomplished.

I am a big believer in lists. I think getting your thoughts and ideas out of your head and on paper is incredibly powerful. It makes space to think about other things.

To Do Lists:

I am constantly making “To-Do” lists. I make them for household chores, tasks for my business, daily activities, events, and so much more. Any time there are a lot of moving parts, writing them down makes such a big difference. And anyone running a business knows there are plenty of moving parts.

8 Reasons Why To-Do Lists are Necessary!

1. They are time savers because you can more easily stay on task.

2. They keep you organized.

3. They keep you motivated and moving forward.

4. You can easily see what is left.

5. It gives you a place to put your ideas. Get’s them out of your head and on paper.

6. They make it easier to prioritize tasks.

7. You don’t forget something when it is written down and is waiting to be crossed out.

8. Crossing things off lists is so gratifying.

But, let’s talk about Ta-Da Lists, because I think they might be even more necessary and beneficial for our success and for our mental health.

Ta Da Lists:

There is an interesting phenomenom called the Zeigarnik effect. It is described as “a psychological phenomenom where a tendency to remember interrupted or incomplete tasks more easily than tasks that have been completed.” This means that our To-Do list, our incomplete, unfinished tasks are what we remember. How sad is that?! This is where Ta-Da lists come in.

A Ta-Da list is your antidote. A Ta-Da list is your way to overcome the Zeigarnik phenomenom. When you write down your accomplishments, and have them up for your viewing, you are more likely to feel satisfied, happy, and accomplished. And don’t we all want that.

equally important.

Write down your to do list, but don’t just cross them off. Cross them off then add them to your Ta-Da list, and you will surely feel better about your accomplishments.

Need some help clarifying what you should be putting on that to do list and how to efficiently and effectively grow your business?? Complete the Focus 5 Exersize to help you find clarity and guidance on your next steps.

Want to track your goals?? Check out these trackers! They are jsut as satisfying as a ta-da list!

Daily Habit Tracker for The Year (leap year included)

CA$4.00

Track a habit or goal each day for a year with this mandala style habit tracker. Good for quitting bad habits too! Colour in each day you went for a run, for example!

You can start any month or day.

Print this tracker off as many times as you like, for as many habits as you want (leap year is included).

*Not for Resale.

Enjoy a year of filling in the spots every time your habit is completed; make a small step everyday that brings you closer to your goal.

Add to cart