Choose Your Words Like You Choose Your Pair of Shoes

We all know how much thought goes into choosing the perfect pair of shoes. Do they fit? Are they comfortable? Do they match the occasion? Do they make you feel confident?

But here’s the real question: How much thought do we put into choosing our words?

Just like shoes, your words say a lot about you—and they carry you through life. The words you use shape how others perceive you, how you connect with the world, and how you see yourself. So, what if you started choosing your words with the same care and intention you use when picking out shoes?

Let’s explore how mindful word choice can transform your life, step by step.

Words as Tools for Self-Expression

Think of your words as the ultimate accessory.

Just like shoes can reflect your personality—whether you’re wearing bold sneakers or classic heels—your words are a mirror of your inner world. They express your emotions, your values, and your intentions.

Now, imagine this: You’re trying to inspire someone, but your words don’t carry the energy or clarity to do it. Or, you want to show love, but the way you phrase things feels distant or awkward. That mismatch? It’s like wearing muddy sneakers to a formal event.

Here’s a quick tip: Before you speak, pause and ask yourself, What do I want my words to say about me? When your words align with your authentic self, they feel natural. They resonate. They land.

The Right Words for the Right Situation

Choosing your words is just like choosing shoes for a specific occasion.

Imagine heading to a wedding in flip-flops. Sure, they’re comfy, but they’re not exactly appropriate for the setting. The same goes for words—context matters.

Your tone, style, and vocabulary should fit the moment. A joke that’s perfect with your close friends might fall flat—or even offend—at work. But being intentional doesn’t mean you have to lose your personality. It means knowing when to bring out the polished loafers and when to stick with the sneakers.

The next time you’re about to have an important conversation, ask yourself, What’s the communication dress code here? Matching your words to the situation helps you connect with others more effectively and leaves a positive impression.

The Impact of Your Words on Others

Here’s the thing: Your words, like shoes, leave footprints.

Every word you speak has the power to uplift or tear down, to build bridges or burn them. Think about a time when someone said something kind to you—it stuck with you, didn’t it? Now think about a careless or harsh comment you received. That probably stayed with you, too.

The words you choose can linger in someone’s heart long after the conversation ends. So, here’s a challenge: For one day, commit to choosing words that uplift. Compliment a coworker. Thank a friend. Smile and say hello to a stranger.

You might be surprised at how powerful your words can be—and how they can brighten not only someone else’s day but yours too.

Choosing Words Mindfully for Yourself

Now let’s talk about the words you say to yourself.

Just like wearing the wrong shoes can hurt your feet, using the wrong words can hurt your confidence and self-worth. Negative self-talk—words like, “I’m not good enough” or “I’ll never succeed”—can weigh you down, while positive words can lift you up and help you move forward.

Try this: The next time you catch yourself in a spiral of self-criticism, pause and reframe it. Instead of saying, “I can’t do this,” try saying, “I’m learning, and I’m getting better every day.” Positive words are like a perfectly fitted pair of sneakers—they give you support and help you take the next step.

Taking the First Step

So, how do you start choosing your words more mindfully?

It all begins with intention. Before you speak or even think about speaking, ask yourself:

1. Does this fit the situation?

2. Does this reflect who I am?

3. Will this leave a positive footprint?

The same goes for the words you say to yourself. Start with kindness, because you deserve it.

A Challenge for You

For the next week, I want you to choose your words as carefully as you choose your shoes.

Be intentional. Be thoughtful. Be kind—to yourself and to others. You don’t have to be perfect, but you do need to be present. Pay attention to how your words feel and how they land.

And here’s the magic: Just like a great pair of shoes can take you to incredible places, your words can open doors, strengthen relationships, and create opportunities you didn’t even know were possible.

Final Thoughts

Words, like shoes, carry you through life. They tell a story about who you are, what you value, and how you connect with the world.

So, choose wisely. Let your words reflect the best version of yourself. Let them uplift, inspire, and connect. And remember, every step you take and every word you say leaves a mark.

What kind of mark will you leave today?

With love, Meda <3

The Art of Finding Flow

Flow is where your art becomes alive.

That Magical Feeling

Have you ever lost track of time while creating? Maybe it was while reading, writing, dancing, playing music or duh, even coding or analyzing, or creating a gift for someone. Hours slipped by, and the world around you faded. All that existed was the action in front of you and the joy of doing it.

That’s what we call flow. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (you'll find a banger mnemonic to finally pronounce it correctly at the end of this text;)), who first coined the term in his book Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience (must read for deeper self-understanding!), described it as a state of total immersion in an activity, where time feels irrelevant, and your mind and body work in perfect harmony.

However, keep in mind - anything that is rewarding doesn't happen overnight. Feeling of flow is EXTREMELY rewarding, therefore, needs a little bit of effort. It (unfortunately, or actually, fortunately) doesn’t just “happen.” It’s not some mystical state reserved for the lucky or the talented. It’s something you can create for yourself—every single day and I, from the bottom of my heart, recommend you to do so.

Why You Struggle toFind Flow

Why does it feel so elusive sometimes? You sit down to create, but distractions creep in. You feel uninspired, unmotivated, or simply stuck. Csikszentmihalyi explains that flow emerges in a sweet spot—when the challenge of a task is just slightly beyond your current skill level.

Too easy? You’ll get bored.

Too hard? You’ll feel frustrated.

And here’s the twist: flow isn’t about being perfect at what you do. It’s about surrendering to the process. Steven Kotler, in The Rise of Superman, points out that flow thrives when we let go of our inner critic and fully commit to the moment. That means turning off your phone, silencing your doubts, and diving in without hesitation.

Flow as Creative Freedom

Flow is where art stops being work and starts being alive. It’s where your creativity feels effortless, like the art is pouring out of you instead of being forced.

In his book Stealing Fire, Jamie Wheal explains that flow is a state where your brain’s inner chatter quiets, and you can fully focus. It’s not just about productivity—it’s about joy. That sense of losing yourself in the moment? That’s what makes creativity addictive, healing, and transformative.

So how to access Flow?

Let’s break down how you can find flow in your practice of...basically anything.

1. Set Clear Goals for Your Session

Start small. Decide what you want to accomplish—maybe it’s sketching an outline, writing 500 words, or experimenting with colors. Having a clear purpose focuses your mind.

2. Eliminate Distractions

Turn off notifications, clear your workspace, and create a ritual that signals “it’s time to create/think/be focused.” (try to avoid the word "work" if you atribute rather negative feelings to this word). For some, it might be a cup of tea or a playlist; for others, it’s simply deep breaths to reset.

3. Push Your Boundaries

Challenge yourself with something slightly outside your comfort zone. If it feels too easy, raise the stakes. If it feels overwhelming, break it into smaller steps.

How this can look like? For example, a musician might tackle a complex piece slightly beyond their comfort zone, breaking it into smaller sections and playing it faster during practice to stay fully engaged. A public speaker could volunteer to address a larger audience than ever before, using preparation and adrenaline to maintain focus. An artist might set an ambitious goal, like completing a mural under a tight deadline, experimenting with new techniques to stretch their creative limits. Physical challenges, like running a marathon at a faster pace than usual, also push you into flow by demanding complete presence. Even problem-solving, like coding with limited tools under a deadline, can spark flow by forcing innovation and intense focus.

The key is finding that sweet spot where the task is neither too easy nor overwhelmingly hard, keeping you fully immersed, motivated, and in the zone.

4. Try a Flow Breathing Exercise

Sit comfortably and close your eyes.

Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for six counts.

Repeat for one minute, focusing only on your breath.

This helps calm your nervous system and prepares you to focus.

Flow is Where the Magic Happens

Flow is your creative superpower. It’s where doubts dissolve, time disappears, and your art comes to life. But more than that, flow reminds us why we create in the first place—not for the outcome, but for the sheer joy of doing.

So, next time you feel stuck, remember: flow isn’t something you wait for. It’s something you create.

“Flow is where your art becomes alive.”

For You and the Community

Your challenge today: set aside 30 minutes to create something. Find your flow, even if it’s just for a moment. And when you do, share it with us! Use #ArtCheckout and let’s celebrate the magic of creating together.

Follow us on Instagram @ArtCheckout for more tips, inspiration, and a community of artists ready to cheer you on. Together, we’ll flow toward greatness.

OH! And how is the pronouciation, right? Look, this is with all the respect to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, but with his name in mind, he also has to admit, that even a mnemonic like this just has to be appropriate here.

Thank you for coming by and being curious❤️

With love, Meda.

The Art of Nurturing Connection

Connection is the heartbeat of creativity.

Creating to Connect

Think about the last time you shared something you created—a painting, a poem, a song. Do you remember the feeling when someone truly saw it? When their eyes lit up, or they told you, “This speaks to me”?

Art has a way of reaching into the spaces between us, building bridges where there were once walls. It connects us—not just to others, but to ourselves. But here’s the thing: creativity can also be isolating. We spend hours alone, pouring our energy into our work. What if, instead of creating in solitude, we created to connect?

Why Connection Matters More Than Ever

But then, why do so many artists struggle to share their work? Fear of judgment, imposter syndrome, or simply not knowing where to start can make it feel safer to keep our creations hidden. Yet, connection is what gives art its power.

There’s a story about Frida Kahlo that always inspires me. She poured her rawest emotions into her paintings—love, pain, resilience. And though she often felt deeply alone, her art created profound connections with others. Her works continue to remind us of shared human experiences, even decades later.

Connection isn’t just about sharing art—it’s about vulnerability. Brené Brown, in her book The Gifts of Imperfection, says, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” When we create with authenticity and share without fear, we invite others to see us—and to see themselves in our work.

Art as a Bridge

When we create, we’re building bridges—between our emotions and the outside world, between ourselves and our audience, and even between different parts of who we are.

Art also reminds us we’re not alone. It creates empathy and understanding, turning “me” into “we.” Think of the last time a piece of music moved you, or a painting made you pause. That’s the magic of connection—it transforms individual expression into collective experience.

And here’s the best part: when you share your art, you’re not just connecting with others—you’re reconnecting with yourself.

Ways to Nurture Connection

Ready to get more connection through your creativity? Here are a couple of ways to get started:

1. Join a Creative Community

Whether it’s an online forum (like the one you're on right now), a local art group, or even a hashtag on social media, find your people. Share your work, ask for feedback, and celebrate others’ creations. You’ll be amazed at how quickly connection blossoms when you step into a shared space.

2. Write Your Own Story

Create a short piece (a few sentences will do) about how art connects you to your emotions or the world around you. Share it with a trusted friend or post it online.

3. Collaborate on a Project

Partner with another artist—maybe a writer, photographer, or musician. Combining your talents can spark connections you never imagined.

Connection is the Heartbeat of Creativity

Here’s what I want you to remember: your art doesn’t need to be perfect to connect. It doesn’t need to reach millions of people. If it resonates with just one person—even if that person is you—it’s enough.

“Connection is the heartbeat of creativity.”

For You and the Community

Today’s challenge: reach out. Share a piece of your art with someone, whether it’s a friend, a family member, or our community on Instagram. If you want to help with sharing, you can always send me a DM either on IG (@artcheckout) with your art in any form (painting, sculpture, dancing, playing a piano - you name it) and we will put your art on the Mural of Us to celebrate your creativity. You can also prepare a story behind this art so that the connection deepens even more.

Join the conversation on Instagram @ArtCheckout. Use #ArtCheckout to share your work, your thoughts, and your journey. Together, we’ll create a space where every artist feels seen, heard, and connected.

The Art of Celebrating Small Victories

 Small victories are the stepping stones to greatness.

A Pause for Gratitude

When was the last time you celebrated a small win? Not the big, flashy achievements, but the little ones—the brushstroke that turned out just right, the rough draft you finally finished, or the time you simply showed up to create?

If you’re like most of us, probably not often enough. We’re wired to chase the big moments: publishing the book, finishing the mural, or selling the piece. But what if I told you that your creative journey isn’t built on monumental achievements? It’s built on the small, quiet victories that happen every single day.

Why Small Victories Matter

But then, why do we overlook these moments? We tend to see them as insignificant, assuming they don’t “count” unless they’re part of something bigger. But here’s the truth: those tiny steps are what make the big moments possible.

James Clear, in Atomic Habits, reminds us that “Success is the product of daily habits—not once-in-a-lifetime transformations.” By focusing on the small wins, we build momentum and confidence, one day at a time.

Think of Beethoven. He didn’t sit down and write the entirety of Symphony No. 9 in one sitting. It was the result of countless small victories—notes written, ideas explored, and revisions made and PATIENCE ❤️. Each step mattered, even if it didn’t feel significant at the time.

As Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way, writes, “Creativity lies in the doing. The process is the goal, not the product.” By celebrating your progress, no matter how small, you’re fueling the creativity to keep going.

The Joy of the Journey

When you take time to celebrate small victories, you’re reminding yourself that your effort is enough—that the journey is just as important as the destination.

Every sketch, draft, or practice session is a step closer to your masterpiece. But more than that, it’s a reminder that you’re showing up, you’re creating, and you’re growing. And isn’t that the point?

Imagine if you approached your creativity with the same joy a child feels when they finish a finger painting. They don’t care if it’s perfect—they’re just proud they made it. That’s the energy we all need to embrace.

Celebrate Your Wins

Here are two simple ways to start celebrating your small victories today:

1. Create a “Celebration Jar”

Keep a jar or a small box on your desk.

Every time you achieve something—no matter how small—write it down on a piece of paper and drop it in the jar.

On tough days, pull out a note and remind yourself how far you’ve come.

2. Daily Reflection Exercise

At the end of each day, list three things you accomplished.

They can be as small as “sketched for 10 minutes” or “set up my workspace.”

Over time, you’ll see just how much you’re progressing.

Every Step Counts

Here’s the truth I want you to carry with you: your journey is made of tiny, beautiful moments that deserve to be celebrated. Don’t wait for the finish line to acknowledge your growth. The fact that you’re creating, trying, and showing up? That’s worth celebrating every single day.

“Small victories are the stepping stones to greatness.”

For You and the Community

Take a moment today to celebrate your latest win—big or small. Write it down, share it with someone, or better yet, post it and tag us using #ArtCheckout.

Follow us on Instagram @ArtCheckout and join a community of creators who know that every step, every stroke, and every effort matters. Let’s celebrate each other’s wins and keep moving forward together.

The Art of Embracing Courage

Courage isn’t about being fearless; it’s about creating despite fear.

The Universal Fear of Starting

Have you ever stood on the edge of a creative idea, feeling the weight of fear holding you back? Maybe it was the fear of judgment, of failing, or simply of not being “good enough.” If you’ve felt this way, you’re not alone. Every artist—yes, even the ones we admire most—has faced that same moment of self-doubt. And I'm not coming up with this because I read it somewhere, I lived in this feeling too, for many many years.

What I came to understand after these years: the fear will sit next to you all the time - you just gotta accept it as if you're accepting a friend. Now you are the one who's changing the narrative.

Why Fear Can Be a Sign of Greatness

There’s a secret every artist needs to know: fear is often a sign you’re about to do something meaningful. In The War of Art, Steven Pressfield talks about fear as a form of Resistance. He writes, “Resistance will tell you anything to keep you from doing your work. It will perjure. It will falsify; it will tell you you’re not ready.” Imagine Resistance as Karen and you're step closer to putting your beautiful work of art outside. 

Today's formula, therefore, goes: 

RESISTANCE = KAREN (yapping all year round) 

(note: If your name is Karen, but you don't act like THE Karen, you're absolutely fabulous)

But then, here’s where it gets interesting: the greater the fear, the greater the importance of the task at hand. Courage, as Elizabeth Gilbert writes in Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, isn’t about perfection or brilliance; it’s about the determination to try. Gilbert reminds us, “Fear is boring. Fear only ever has one thing to say, and that thing is: ‘STOP.’” But your job isn’t to stop. Your job is to begin and continue, relentlessly!

Think of Vincent van Gogh. Do you know how many of his works were celebrated during his lifetime? Not many. And yet, he kept creating, fueled by courage, passion and purpose (and OBSESSION)—not by confidence, recognition, or ease.

Courage and Fear Coexist

The truth is, courage and fear are roommates. They’ll always live together in your creative journey. But here’s the good news: courage can drive the car. It’s not about kicking fear out—it’s about choosing to move forward even when fear whispers, “You can’t do this.”

In Atomic Habits, James Clear emphasizes, “The most effective way to do it is to do it.” (well it's not NOT true...) - In other words, courage doesn’t grow before the work—it grows because of it. Every small act of creativity—every brushstroke, every word written—is an act of bravery. Look - gaining respect towards yourself is no different that respecting your friend or someone famous. As these people do extraordinary things, you automatically (consciously or subconsciously) respect them, because they just GO FOR IT. And this is, really, exact same process with yourself.

Courage in Small Steps

So, how do you embrace courage? Start small. Here are two exercises to get you moving:

1. Take a Tiny Risk Today: Pick one creative task that feels manageable but slightly outside your comfort zone. Maybe it’s sketching for 10 minutes, sharing a rough draft with a friend, or trying a new medium. Celebrate the act of doing it—not the result. For me it's to make time to learn and create new melodies/beats. This part is always the most resistant but once I get in ease with it, oh boy, it's a show.

2. Visualization Exercise: Close your eyes and imagine your project complete. Picture the joy of holding your finished painting, the pride of watching someone connect with your writing, or the excitement of sharing your work. Anchor yourself in that joy. Try to imagine how your parents or your friends are literally celebrating with you and telling you "wow, you've really made it". Really - imagine it - it's a feeling I can't really describe just finish the reading and then go for few minutes into this.

Every Act of Creation is Brave

Here’s the truth I want you to remember: every time you create, you’re winning over fear. It doesn’t matter if it’s messy or imperfect. The simple act of starting—of showing up—is a masterpiece in itself.

“Courage is the foundation of every masterpiece.”

For You and the Community

Now, it’s your turn. What small act of courage will you take today? Write it down, share it with someone, or better yet, tell us! Post your journey on Instagram with #ArtCheckout, and let’s celebrate every brave step together.

Follow us on Instagram @ArtCheckout for more inspiration, connection, and a community that believes in you. Together, we’ll take the leap, one courageous step at a time.

With love, Meda.

The Art of Accepting Imperfection

Perfection isn’t the goal; authenticity is.

Embracing the Beautifully Imperfect

Let me ask you something: When was the last time you gave yourself permission to create something imperfect? Think about it. We live in a world that worships polished Instagram feeds and flawless final products, but what if I told you that imperfection is where the magic happens?

Take Vincent van Gogh. Did you know he created The Starry Night from a mental asylum, working with what he had, in a state far from perfection? He didn’t wait for the “perfect moment” or the “perfect tools”—he just created. And today, we celebrate his imperfections as brilliance.

So, here’s the twist: What if your imperfections—the cracks in your process, the wobbly lines, the messy drafts—are the most authentic parts of your art? The pivotal part that is making your art YOURS?

The Beauty of Imperfection

Let me introduce you to the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi: the art of finding beauty in imperfection. This Buddhist philosophy comes from the approach that there's not such a thing as symmetrical or perfect. It embodies the beauty of things that are flawed, asymmetrical and transient. It teaches us that cracks, flaws, and unfinished edges tell stories—they add depth, character, and humanity. 

Think of a bowl 

mended with gold in the kintsugi tradition. Its cracks aren’t hidden; they’re celebrated, becoming the most valuable part of the piece.

Wabi-sabi principles were later on embraced in Japanese tea ceremonies, particulary in 15th century by tea master Sen no Rikyū, who is often credited with embedding wabi-sabi into the Japanese culture...mostly how we know it nowadays. If this way of life excites you, you can read more in the book of the same name from Beth Kempton.

However... why do we so often demand perfection from ourselves? The truth is, striving for perfection often stifles creativity. As Elizabeth Gilbert explains in Big Magic, “Perfectionism is just fear in fancy shoes.” When we insist on getting it “right,” we lose the freedom to explore, to fail, and to learn. And here’s the kicker: art doesn’t want perfect. Art wants real.

Even Leonard Cohen, in his song “Anthem,” reminds us: “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.”

Flaws Make Art Human

Imperfection isn’t just acceptable—it’s necessary. Think about the artists, writers, and creators you admire. Is it their perfect execution that moves you, or is it the raw emotion in their work, the sense that they’ve poured their flawed, beautiful humanity into it?

When you embrace your flaws, you stop creating for approval and start creating for connection. Your art becomes more than a product—it becomes a reflection of you. And that’s what makes it powerful.

Exercises to Embrace Imperfection

Let’s break free from perfectionism, one step at a time.

Journaling Prompt: Ask yourself:

What imperfections do I see in my art or process?

How can I view these as unique or meaningful?

Write down three “flaws” in your creative work and reframe them as strengths. For example: “My sketches are too rough” becomes “My sketches capture raw energy.”

Intentional Imperfection Exercise: Create something with the goal of making it imperfect. A messy painting, a clunky draft, an unpolished piece. Focus on the process, not the result. Reflect on how it feels to create without the pressure of perfection. I tried this excercise many times and you feel a different kind of freedom. It's really a gem in excercises.

Celebrate the Cracks

Here’s the truth: your imperfections are what make your art yours. They’re what make it human, relatable, and unforgettable.

So the next time you find yourself erasing a line, redoing a stroke, or hesitating to share your work, remember: There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.

Perfection isn’t the goal; authenticity is.

For You and the Community

Today, I want you to try something bold: create something imperfect. Then, if you’re feeling brave, share it with us. Use #ArtCheckout so we can celebrate your unique, authentic work together.

And if you’re ready to embrace the beauty of imperfection every day, follow us on Instagram @ArtCheckout. Let’s remind each other that flaws aren’t failures—they’re gifts.