In this intimate conversation with Hanna, we explore the intersection of creativity, coaching and authentic self-expression. Our dialogue reveals how creativity isn't just about artistic output but a fundamental aspect of our human experience.
What began as a connection through Hannah's watercolour art evolved into a rich discussion about breaking through limiting beliefs, embracing curiosity and finding the courage to express our true essence. We both shared personal experiences about how creativity shapes our coaching practice and personal lives, examining how creative energy flows through us and transforms both coach and client.
Show notes:
[00:01:53] How We Connected Through Creative Expression
Our connection began when I noticed one of Hannah's watercolour paintings on Substack
I felt an ‘energetic resonance’ that sparked curiosity between us
Hannah shared how she once believed she wasn't creative until she started experimenting with watercolours
[00:03:27] Breaking Through Limiting Beliefs About Creativity
Hannah described her journey from ‘I'm not creative’ to embracing creativity as essential to her life
‘I would have said, no, absolutely not. I am not creative. My sisters all are. They are the creative ones in the family. Me? No, I'm the thinker.’
I reflected how common it is to believe we need an artistic practice to consider ourselves creative
[00:07:47] Creativity as Connection Rather Than Isolation
I challenged the notion of the artist working in isolation: ‘Creativity, by its very definition, is about openness and curiosity to the world’
Hannah asked about creativity happening with others versus alone
We discussed how even solitary creative acts involve connection to ‘something divine...beyond just me
[00:12:02] The Creative Nature of the Coaching Container
I described coaching as ‘an act of improvisation’ within a structured container
Hannah added: ‘It requires courage from the client who is coming in... fully just immersing yourself into that conversation’
We explored how both coach and client need courage to surrender to the creative process
[00:17:54] Creativity as Energy vs. Form
Hannah asked a profound question: ‘Does creativity require me to actually write something on the page or put my paintbrush on a piece of something? Or can creativity just happen in my thoughts?’
I described creativity as ‘an act of translation’ - moving something internal to external
We distinguished between creative energy (aliveness) and creative form (expression)
[00:26:26] Living From Essence Rather Than Survival Mechanisms
I shared my essence process and how it helps clients identify their unique qualities
Hannah reflected on her journey of "taking off the layers and kind of looking at what's finding that connection back to myself"
We discussed how survival mechanisms block authentic expression and, conversely, operating from essence
[00:33:55] Balancing Creation for Self vs. Service to Others
Hannah shared her challenge: ‘I'm not creating much for myself at the moment... I'm not journaling much... If I'm taking a picture of something, I'm taking it because I'm already thinking what words can I add to it so I can share it on Substack?’
I suggested ‘filling the well’ of creative nourishment
We explored finding balance between self-expression and service through creative work
Key quotes:
"I really strongly believe that as human beings, by our very nature almost, we're wired to be creative. It's not about having a particular artistic practice. It's about finding an expression of the unique self, the unique soul." - Rachel
"For me, creativity has an element of 'I don't quite know.' I'm open to whatever's going to come up. So it's both structure and free flow, robust container and improvisation." - Rachel
"Until two or three years ago, if you had asked me, are you a creative person? I would have said, no, absolutely not. I am not creative. My sisters all are. They are the creative ones in the family. Me? No, I'm the thinker." - Hannah
"When I'm in the shower and I have all of these different ideas, do they not count because I don't execute? [...] My ideas and my thoughts, when I have them, they are not just inside of me. They are flowing out into the universe in some way." - Hannah
"When creativity comes through us, it can only come out in a certain way... Each of us has an essence of who we are." - Rachel
Resources mentioned:
Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way - particularly the concept of ‘filling the well’
Watercolour painting as an entry point to creative practice
The essence process in coaching
About Hannah:
Hannah is the creative mind behind Purposeful Connection. After experiencing burnout in her corporate career, she rediscovered creativity and connection to self. With her background incorporating undiagnosed ADHD and autistic experiences, Hannah brings a unique perspective to her coaching practice. Her Substack explores the intersection of creativity, connection and purposeful living.
About Me … and What's Next?:
If there's something you're longing to create (a writing project, an artistic creation or even a new venture) I'm here to support you to develop your courage and expand the power of your self-expression.
Here's how I can help:
Make an appointment for a virtual coffee (free). I hold 3-4 slots every month for a 20 minute chat so we can get to know each other.
Book a 30-minute connection call (free). This is for anyone—whether you have an idea you want to brainstorm, an issue that's holding you back, or just want to know about me and/or my work.
Read my manifesto for creative courage (free). Learn about the core principles of my creativity and follow in serial form the story of how I came to found Wordplay Coaching.
Inquiry of Writing, an intimate group coaching experience. We meet twice a month to use writing as a tool for curiosity, exploration and transformation. This is currently full but talk to me about joining the waiting list.
Creative Essence 1:1 coaching. Personal guidance to work with you on recognising your survival mechanisms and the fears that hold you back from your full expression.
Your Creative Essence Awaits
This conversation with Hannah reminded me how essential it is to make space for creativity in our lives, even in small ways. Whether you're exploring your own creative expression or seeking to live more authentically, remember that creativity isn't about the final product—it's about the aliveness that comes from connecting to your true essence.
If you're feeling called to explore your own creative essence more deeply, I'd love to connect with you. Together we can work on removing the layers that might be blocking your authentic expression.
Thank you for being part of this creative community. Your presence and engagement make these conversations even more meaningful.
P.S.
Did you miss my previous newsletters? You can find them all in the archive on my Substack. And if you found value in this conversation, please consider sharing it with others who might benefit.
With creative courage, Rachel
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