Art for Selfcare - Mindful Creative Muse

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personal development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cynthia Hauk, Owner of Mindful Creative Muse LLC., located in Colorado Springs, CO, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Mindful Creative Muse is not just my business. It's my heart and soul project. Our mission is to help self-critical individuals navigate overwhelm and creative blocks by offering simple and calming mindful art activities for self-care. Our customers come from a wide spectrum, from those who don't consider themselves artists or meditators to seasoned practitioners with years of experience. What unites them is their shared desire to infuse fresh life and ease into their mindfulness and creative practices, all while learning to be kinder to themselves and express their creativity.

Our students are as diverse as the colors on an artist's palette. We serve creative professionals in search of inspiration and practical tools to enhance their creative process. We collaborate with businesses aiming to improve employee well-being and productivity through mindfulness training. We support art teachers, yoga teachers, art therapists, expressive art therapists, coaches, creative entrepreneurs, and more in how they can teach and market their own unique mindful art offerings in the world. And, of course, we warmly welcome anyone on a journey toward a more mindful and creative life.

Tell us about yourself

My journey into Mindful Art was deeply influenced by my personal experience, including my battle with cancer and previous burnout as a corporate manager. It was during this time that I discovered the profound impact of mindfulness on unlocking my creativity and fostering resilience.

This transformative experience inspired me to share these insights with others. I realized that mindfulness and creativity could be powerful tools not only for coping with adversity but also for enhancing everyday life. My cancer journey taught me the importance of living a fulfilling and balanced life, and I wanted to help others do the same.

What motivates me each day is the opportunity to witness the positive change that mindfulness and creativity bring to people's lives. My own experience, including overcoming cancer, has reinforced my passion for helping individuals and organizations flourish and find their unique creative voices. Knowing that I'm assisting others in their journey toward a more balanced and meaningful life is my driving force.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

One of my most significant achievements as a business owner has been the creation of three unique, internationally accredited Mindful Art Teacher Training Certification Online Programs at Mindful Creative Muse. These were the first Mindful Art Certification programs online and have empowered individuals worldwide to become certified Mindful Art Teachers and Facilitators, spreading the benefits of mindfulness and creativity to diverse communities.

Another source of pride is our growing YouTube channel, which has reached students in more than 50 countries and continues to expand its global reach. Through our channel, we offer free resources, guided meditations, and simple, creative, mindful art journaling exercises, making mindfulness and creativity accessible to a wide audience.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

One of the toughest things about being a business owner is how you've got to wear many hats all at once. You're not just running the day-to-day operations; you've also got to keep up with the ever-changing market and be ready to adapt. And let's not forget the constant struggle to find that elusive work-life balance, especially when you're so invested in your business.

What's really lovely is how my personal mindful art practice fits into all of this. It's not just something I teach; it's also my secret weapon for taking care of myself. And trust me, taking care of myself is a big part of how I manage to handle everything in my business.

When I'm coaching future facilitators in my Teacher Training programs, I always stress the idea of "teaching what we know." It's not just a catchy phrase; it means that our personal practice is super important. It's what helps us walk the talk and be the best version of ourselves in both our personal lives and our business ventures.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

1. Consistency Is Key: Establish a consistent practice of showing up for your business. This means dedicating time and effort regularly. Consistency builds momentum and helps you make steady progress toward your goals.
2. Embrace Small, Daily Steps: Instead of aiming for grandiose leaps, focus on taking small, daily steps to improve your business. These incremental actions may seem minor, but they add up over time and lead to substantial growth. Celebrate each small win along the way to stay motivated. In many of my online mindful art classes, I recommend setting a timer and creating even if it's only 5 minutes. Small steps help maintain and grow momentum, which also builds confidence.
3. Continuously Evaluate Alignment: Regularly assess what's in alignment for both you and your business. This means checking if your actions, goals, and values still match your initial vision. Be open to adjusting your course if needed to ensure that your business remains true to your passion and purpose. Remember that a business that reflects your authentic self is more likely to thrive.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://mindfulcreativemuse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindfulcreativemuse
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfulcreativemuse
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mcreativemuse
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthiahauk/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/mindfulcreativemuse
Free Mindful Art Workbook: https://tinyurl.com/5ftp6hme

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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