My journey as a full-time artist has brought me back to basics, prompting me to reflect deeply on my 'Why?'. What drives me to pursue this path? Gaining clarity on this question has opened my eyes to the many limiting beliefs I hold about my artistic self and my approach to life as an artist. In navigating this journey, Simon Sinek has become a trusted companion, or rather, a comforting voice that I turn to while seeking answers. To support myself in this process, I decided to write a letter to myself, imagining it as if Simon were reaching out to me directly. What words of wisdom would he share? What is it that I truly need to hear?
As a result, I've created this journaling exercise, and so far, it’s been really helpful. I may find myself reading it over and over, but that’s okay!
Dear Marisabel,
You’re an artist, but more importantly, you’re a storyteller. Every brushstroke, every layer of colour, and every expressive mark carries a piece of your story—your journey, your struggles, and your wins.
As artists, creators, or leaders, we often bear the weight of a powerful misconception: that our story is too messy, too different, or perhaps not enough. These are the limiting beliefs that whisper doubts into our minds and make us second-guess the value of who we are and what we do.
But here’s the truth: Your story isn’t a limitation; it’s your most powerful gift.
The experiences you’ve had—immigrating to a new country, navigating the challenges of injuries, and expressing the raw emotions of human nature through your work—are precisely what make your art extraordinary. People don’t just want your art; they want you. They want your perspective, your courage, and your vulnerability.
The greatest leaders of all time—who changed the world—are those who dare to show up not as polished versions of who they think they should be, but as their authentic, imperfect selves. In doing so, they give others permission to do the same.
Ask yourself:
What if your story isn’t something to overcome but something to embrace?
What if your unique perspective is exactly what the world has been waiting for?
The moment you stop hiding behind who you think you should be and start leading with who you truly are, you give your work—and your life—a deeper sense of purpose.
So, Marisabel, here’s my invitation to you:
Turn those limiting beliefs into fuel. Use them to deepen your connection with yourself, your art, and your audience. Because when you show up authentically, your art becomes more than just paint on a canvas; it becomes a reflection of the human experience—raw, imperfect, and breathtakingly beautiful.
Keep creating. Keep inspiring. The world needs your story.
With regards,
Simon
This pretend exercise has been really helpful. I might come back to this letter many times in the next few weeks, but I have also learnt that it is very easy to give advise when we get out of our heads!
