Navigating the Messy Middle of New Projects

Hey there, and happy Sunday!

In my February monthly review, I mentioned that I was working on a new super-secret project (sorry, I’m still not ready to share details!), and I’ve been in the thick of research and planning for that project this month.

When I started the month, I was at the peak of the “new project high.”

Whenever I start a new thing I’m always super excited and believe it’s the best idea ever.

Then I start to really dig into it and run into obstacles, roadblocks, and frustrations.

And then comes the questioning and self-doubt, and I’m asking myself, “What the hell was I even thinking?”

Well, that’s about where I am with this new project. 😅

All the magic has evaporated and now I’m having to make hard decisions, sacrifices, and be okay with all the little imperfections.

It’s the stage where my inclination is to quit and throw the whole project in the trash, so I’m having to constantly remind myself of why I’m doing it. My ‘why’ is really important to me in this case, so I’m going to continue to forge ahead!

I wish I had some incredible insights on how to navigate new projects, but I don’t. I just wanted to share this as a super relatable moment.

Starting new things is almost always very exciting and then quickly becomes very hard, and we kind of just need to sift through the messy middle if we ever want to accomplish anything.

If you’re in the messy middle of a project right now, I’m sending you some encouragement to keep going!

New from my studio

I made some medieval gothic themed art this week. I felt inspired by Victorian arches, quatrefoils, and acanthus leaf scrolls and made a small collection of prints. I always love getting inspired by themes of the past.

And as usual, the full collection is available in my shop on fabric, wallpaper, and home decor—

Thanks for reading! Next week I’ll be back in your inbox with my monthly review of March and goals I have for April.

Talk soon,

~Rachel

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