Career & Business Coaching Blog.
Inspiration and tips for multi-passionate creatives & entrepreneurs.
Creative Generalist, What’s Your Glue?
Every creative and generalist has that one thing - the intangible thread that ties everything they love, excel at, and dream about into a cohesive story that makes sense to them. It’s not always obvious, and it might not make sense to other people, but it’s the thing that holds everything together. It’s your glue.
But what exactly is your glue, and why does it matter - especially in a world leaning more and more into automation and artificial intelligence?
We’re going to explore exactly that. Along the way, I'll share how you can uncover your unique glue, why it’s more vital than ever in today’s landscape, and how you can maximize your creative potential and your income-stream potential.
What's Your Glue?
In Get Unstuck!, I describe “your glue” as that unique thread that makes everything in your life come together and make sense. Sometimes it’s a calling, a feeling, or a spark that shows up when you’re in flow - doing what you love most. It’s not always loud or heroic, but it’s yours. It’s what gets you lost in the work, keeps you up with inspiration, and connects your passions, values, and dreams.
Ever feel like your skills and ideas are puzzle pieces only you know how to put together? That “pattern” is your glue - the thread makes sense to you, and that ties your talents and dreams together.
Forget the pressure to craft the perfect "why." Often, glue hides in the small moments - when you’re immersed in a project, following curiosity, or connecting unlikely dots.
Want to find it? Ask yourself: What brings you to life, time and again? Where do you feel most energized and true to yourself?
My Creative Generalist Glue
For me, my glue is about understanding what it means to be human and how to live a good life. This shows up in many ways: always building something new (like CoachMila.ai right now), finding flow through writing or drawing, exploring my heritage through genealogy, diving into philosophical ideas, or coaching others to get unstuck or create successful careers and businesses.
In those moments of writing, creating, or coaching, I feel most alive and aligned with who I’m meant to be. That creative generalist glue ties everything together for me.
Why Your Glue Matters in an AI-Driven World
The accelerating pace of technology, particularly AI, has fundamentally reshaped what’s possible in both work and creativity. While some fear AI might replace creative or human-driven efforts, the truth is far more empowering - AI supports your glue.
Think of all the busy work that eats up your time - the administrative tasks, the endless research, the repetitive grunt work. AI can lighten that load, freeing up your mental bandwidth to focus on the things that only you can create.
When you lean into your glue, you’re focusing on your unique creative generalist skills - your intuition, creativity, and ability to connect dots others might not even see. These qualities are irreplaceable. And with the help of AI, you can double down on them. Instead of working harder on the parts of your work that drain you, you can work smarter, pouring your energy into what you love most.
It’s not about doing more; it’s about doing *better.*
How to Discover Your Creative Generalist Glue
Finding your glue doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s not something you can force. It's one of the hardest things for creative generalists to get clarity on. But it is discoverable if you know where to look, and when you do, it changes everything.
Here are a few steps to help you connect the dots:
1. Reflect on Flow Moments
Think about the times when you’ve felt completely absorbed in an activity. Flow moments are a key sign of your glue at work. When time disappears and you feel fully alive and “in the zone,” you’re probably tapping into why you do what you do.
2. Explore Your Happiness Anchors
What makes you light up consistently? What work or activities bring you genuine excitement or comfort? What do you always feel drawn to, even in moments of uncertainty? These anchors - things that energize you regardless of external outcomes - offer valuable clues to your glue.
3. Uncover Patterns
Your glue is often hiding in plain sight. Look back at your past projects, hobbies, career moves, or even childhood interests. Is there a common theme? For example, do you always lean toward problem-solving or creating beauty in everyday life? Pay attention to these recurring patterns.
4. Follow Your Curiosity
Sometimes, your glue unfolds when you explore what intrigues you. Allow yourself to pursue ideas, hobbies, or projects that spark curiosity. You don’t have to know where it will lead - following that thread without resistance often reveals hidden parts of your glue.
5. Lean Into What Feels Aligned
Your glue is not a “one-size-fits-all” revelation. It doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Give yourself permission to be authentically you. When you stop forcing yourself into molds that aren’t a fit, your glue comes forward naturally.
What’s Next for Your Glue?
Your glue is an ongoing discovery. It might take time, or it might be clearer than you think. But once you uncover it, there’s incredible power in leaning into it, trusting it, and amplifying it.
If you’re ready to take action, there’s no better time. I’m thrilled to announce my 6-Month AI-Powered Portfolio Career Accelerator for Creatives, launching on September 29th. This program is designed to help you use cutting-edge AI tools to maximize your glue, craft aligned opportunities, and create meaningful impact without burnout.
What’s the glue that holds your vision together? What lights you up? Take a moment to reflect on it.
And if you’re ready to explore where your glue can take you, check out the link to learn more about the accelerator program. It’s time to take your creativity, career, and purpose to the next level.
Are You Ready to Thrive as a Creative Generalist?
Imagine a future where your unique vision becomes reality - where your creativity and purpose inspire meaningful change, and balance is no longer a dream but your new normal.
With my accelerator program, launching on September 29th, you'll gain access to the tools, strategies, and community you need to achieve your creative potential. Discover how cutting-edge AI can align with your passions to craft opportunities that truly matter, without sacrificing your well-being.
The Portfolio Career Advantage in an AI-Driven World
The traditional career ladder is collapsing. In the last ten years, supporting creatives to change careers, I've seen firsthand how technology has disrupted old models of work. The rise of AI has only accelerated this shift, making adaptability and a wide range of skills essential. A portfolio career - where you pursue multiple projects, roles, or income streams - is a great way to thrive in this new landscape.
Instead of relying on a single role or rigid career path, a portfolio career allows you to build upon your unique mix of skills, passions, and experiences. Whether you're combining freelance work, consulting, creative ventures, or even learning something completely new, this approach gives you a dynamic edge. It’s about playing to your strengths while staying flexible in a rapidly evolving job market.
AI tools can take this even further. They enable faster creation, smarter decision-making, and new opportunities to diversify your income streams. This means that as a creative generalist, you’re not limited to the time you have, the budget you have, or the people willing to help you - you’re now finally able to create a career that is as multi-faceted and innovative as you are.
Why the AI Era Is Perfect for Portfolio Careers
Portfolio careers thrive in the AI era because they emphasize adaptability, creativity, and wide and versatile skill sets. With AI handling repetitive tasks, you can focus on what truly matters -innovating, connecting, and pursuing passions that align with your purpose.
This shift empowers you to build a career that reflects all facets of your identity (finally!), rather than confining you to a singular or specialist path. Whether you’re a writer, designer, entrepreneur, or all three, you now have the tools to create a professional life that evolves with you.
It’s no longer about choosing one thing - it's about exploring everything that you love and that supports your growth and ambition.
Diversification = Security
If one income stream slows, others can fill the gap.AI Increases Productivity
Automation lets you manage multiple ventures without burning out.Faster Experimentation
You can test new ideas quickly without betting your whole career on them.Cross-Industry Resilience
Skills and ideas transfer more easily across fields.
AI as the Portfolio Career Engine
Today’s AI tools turn the once-overwhelming idea of running multiple projects into a realistic plan. Each tool 10x-es your ability to organize, create, and adapt, giving you the freedom to focus on what truly matters. Whether it’s automating repetitive tasks, brainstorming innovative solutions, or analyzing data faster than ever before, AI is the catalyst and skilled team to your creativity and resourcefulness.
Instead of feeling stretched thin, you can feel empowered to thrive in multiple areas at once. Imagine using a writing assistant to craft blogs for one venture while simultaneously using analytics tools to refine strategies for another.
With AI as your partner, your portfolio career isn’t just a possibility - it’s an exciting, attainable reality where you dictate the direction, pace, and scale of your success. Here are a few of my favorite tools:
n8n.io – Automates cross-project admin.
Jasper.ai – Creates content for different business arms.
Gemini - Generates images and videos content in minutes.
RunwayML – Produces video & design assets for varied offers.
NotebookLM - Creates Ideal Client Personas and perfect copy to attract them.
Lovable.dev – Builds MVPs fast for new ideas.
These tools mean you can run a consulting gig, a digital product shop, and a creative agency - all as one person.
Case Study: My AI-Powered Portfolio
While I'm building CoachMila.ai, I'm also running client sessions, developing a coaching quality seal, working on an AI Accelerator Program, leading a coaching marketplace, while studying for a Master's in Management. AI made it possible to:
Built a low-cost and fast MVP using vibe coding.
Streamline administrative tasks that used to take hours, allowing me to focus on creative and strategic work.
Create personalized, high-quality materials for clients in minutes, not days.
Manage multiple projects simultaneously without feeling overwhelmed.
Automate lead generation so I can focus on building genuine connections with potential partners and investors.
By maximizing my adoption and use of AI, I’ve discovered how to work smarter, not harder.
This isn’t about replacing human effort but amplifying it. With AI as my co-pilot, I’ve felt a new sense of freedom to dream bigger and explore ideas I once thought were out of reach - simply because I didn't have the time or money to "do it all."
Inside the AI-Powered Portfolio Career Program
Seeing my own portfolio career and creative generalist ideas take off so much is what inspired me to create the AI-Powered Portfolio Career Program. I wanted to share what I’ve learned and help others reach their portfolio potential, too.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or someone simply looking to reshape their career path, this program is designed to empower you with actionable strategies and insights. Together, we’ll discover how to use AI to free up your time, double down on your talents, and open doors to opportunities you never imagined possible.
Over 6 months, this program helps creative generalists:
Identify their most valuable skill combinations
Design offers that scale across multiple markets
Build AI workflows for consistency and speed
Develop resilience against market shifts
It’s not just career planning - it’s career architecture.
Imagine waking up every day with a clear sense of direction, knowing that your unique blend of skills and creativity is not just valued but thriving in a market you’ve shaped for yourself. This program empowers you to take control of your career, harnessing the immense potential of AI not as a replacement but as an extension of your capabilities. You’ll feel confident navigating change, tackling challenges with innovative solutions, and uncovering possibilities that align with your personal vision. And, you'll become an AI expert in the process!
Action Plan to Start Your AI-Driven Portfolio Career
If you've been thinking about integrating AI into your work because you know it's time to future-proof your career, then this action plan is designed for you.
The first step is simple yet powerful - identify how AI can complement your unique skills and passions. Reflect on your experiences and consider how AI tools can maximize your strengths, whether that's automating repetitive tasks, analyzing complex data, or sparking fresh creativity.
Next, start experimenting. Choose a couple of accessible AI tools and integrate them into small, manageable projects. This hands-on exploration will uncover new insights and build your confidence.
From here, you'll be ready to outline your goals and take deliberate steps toward building a career portfolio that showcases your expertise in blending human ingenuity with AI innovation. Remember, this is your chance to stand out in a world that's increasingly shaped by technology - embrace it with enthusiasm and a clear sense of purpose.
AI can feel like a threat to traditional jobs. But for those who design portfolio careers, it’s a gift - multiplying options, improving efficiency and productivity, and making creative independence more possible than ever.
Go for it!
Are You Ready to Start Your AI-Driven Portfolio Career?
Imagine a career where you’re in control - combining your passions, exploring creative possibilities, and turning AI into your unfair advantage. Yes, it’s possible to design a portfolio career that thrives in the age of innovation.
Don’t wait for the future to happen to you - create it. Start your transformation today and book your free session. Together, we’ll design a portfolio career that’s uniquely yours, supported by smart technology and a confident vision for success.
Generalists Are Poor, Specialists Are Rich - Not Anymore!
I came across this quote recently, and as a generalist who supports other generalists to become financially free, you can imagine how it stopped me in my tracks!
"Generalists are poor, specialists are rich. The family MD gets by while the surgeon is wealthy."
It’s a little phrase, but in my experience, even though it's a far-fetched myth, it can make any generalist feel bad.
For a long time, I felt out of place, juggling multiple interests and thriving in diverse areas rather than focusing on just one thing. People often told me I needed to specialize, that I started so many things, but hardly ever finished anything. But the more I lived, the more I realized that being a generalist is my biggest strength. My curiosity and wide skill set didn’t just fit into a single box - they built bridges between them.
And here’s the thing, the rapid growth of Tech and AI is making space for talents like ours. Renaissance people - those who see connections others miss - are leading innovation. We adapt quickly, think more creatively, and offer insights specialists may overlook. We’re no longer “jack of all trades, master of none”; we’re the missing piece that drives change.
Being a generalist means adopting powerful AI tools much faster than anyone else, amplifying our already impressive versatility and problem-solving skills. Click here to read more about my current favorites and how I use them:
ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude: These LLMs provide instant insights and help me adapt to emerging trends. I love the new OpenAI Agent for research and lists, Gemini for document summaries, picture generation, and emails, and Claude for deep research.
Jasper.ai: Streamline content creation with AI-powered efficiency. Their recent updates make them my go-to for anything content-related.
Motionapp.com: Uses AI to optimize your schedule for project management. Efficient, even though - fair warning - sometimes a bit too rigid for a generalist like me.
Runwayml.com: Revolutionizes creative work with generative AI.
Adzviser.com: Embraces AI technology to revolutionize digital advertising, empowering businesses to craft more effective ad campaigns, target the right audiences, and maximize ROI.
Gemini.com Gems: An AI cross-functional team that empowers you to achieve more than you thought possible.
HeyGen.com: Redefines storytelling with AI-generated videos, enabling users to create engaging, high-quality content effortlessly.
ElevenLabs.io: Transforms the way we interact with audio through advanced AI-driven voice technology, giving creators the tools to generate realistic, dynamic voiceovers and push the boundaries of audio storytelling.
NotebookLM.google: I love the custom podcasts and summaries I can create from information and knowledge I provide, making information more accessible and digestible for on-the-go learners.
n8n.io: My new passion, an open-source automation platform that puts the power back in your hands. With n8n, you’re not just automating tasks - you’re building a powerful AI agentic workflow that reflects your vision, your ideas, and your unique needs.
Lovable.dev: THE vibe coding app that I use to build coachmila.ai. Talking about my new AI coach, try it out here: coachmila.ai/free-ai-life-coach-mila
It’s not just about the technology - it’s about the courage to take that first step in embodying your creative generalist nature, trusting your instincts, and believing in the value you bring to the table.
Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, to innovate, and to push boundaries. Remember, you have what it takes to create something extraordinary - so start now, and see where your unique talents and interests can take you.
Let's redefine what it means to be a generalist - and why the world desperately needs us.
Here’s to owning your beautiful mix of skills,
Murielle
Featured image representing a diverse group of creative generalists, generated using AI by Google Gemini.
Are You Ready to Thrive as a Creative Generalist?
Imagine what you could achieve if you embraced the power of your many skills, unique perspective, and the potential of AI. The world is waiting for the ideas only you can bring to life - now with the support of innovative technology.
Whether you're navigating a complex challenge or striving to realize your next big vision, having the right partner can make all the difference. That's where I come in - I specialize in helping multi-passionate individuals like you turn their talents and many interests into superpowers.
From 'Idea Overload' to Clear Direction: Your Guide to Taming a Creative Generalist Mind
Do you have a notes app on your laptop or mobile phone filled with bullet lists of brilliant ideas, half-finished projects, and countless "aha!" moments, only to feel paralyzed by the sheer volume of possibilities? You're not alone. Creative generalists, as I like to call them, find themselves in a constant state of idea overload, struggling to translate their vibrant inner worlds into tangible action. As a coach dedicated to helping creatives get unstuck, this is one of the most common challenges I see.
The Overwhelm of Endless Possibilities
It often feels like you're "tinkering in dreamland" rather than building something real. Consider my client Laura, who, despite taking various classes and managing multiple blogs, expressed feeling like she was "looking in the wrong place" and couldn't pinpoint her next steps. Another creative I worked with, let's call him John, described himself as "a very creative person" who generates ideas rapidly but consistently struggles with "following up on them."
The sheer volume of thoughts can be overwhelming, leading to a messy kind of focus that shifts constantly.
For some, this intense creative energy, without a clear outlet, can even result in a feeling of numbness in their creative life. This isn't a sign of laziness; many clients, like Andy, acknowledge they "do lots of work" but remain confused about their direction. It’s simply the difficulty in transforming a rich internal landscape into concrete results, often due to significant mental blocks.
When the Inner Critic Takes the Wheel
A major saboteur in this journey is your inner dialogue - your inner critic. This voice can be relentlessly negative, telling you that you're "not good enough", that your aspirations aren't "real", or that you're destined to "fail". This fear often leads to perfectionism, where the desire to do everything flawlessly can result in analysis paralysis.
Instead of acting, you might get stuck in an endless loop of research or overthinking, procrastinating indefinitely.
My client Sarah's inner critic, for instance, sometimes lures her into believing she doesn't "really have to do the work" because of her talents, only to then call her a "failure". This internal conflict is powerful and often leads creative generalists to feel like their dreams will "never work" after repeatedly getting stuck trying to pursue them.
Discovering Your Unique "Glue" for Clarity
The key to overcoming this multi-passionate overwhelm often lies in identifying your unique "glue," the underlying theme or purpose that connects your seemingly disparate interests. (If you want to know more about it, or find your glue, check out my book Get Unstuck!).
One powerful tool for this is the "Ideal Day" exercise.
By visualizing what your ideal life and work would look and feel like, you start to "see beyond the borders of the lives we’re currently stuck in" and reconnect with your authentic desires. For Paulien, one of my uncommon clients, this exercise provided a crucial direction: "An office job is not for me." That clarity, after trying to land an office job for months, allowed Paulien to finally go for what she really wanted: to be a cowgirl and trail guide around the world.
From Thinking to Doing: The Power of Intentional Action
Once clarity begins to emerge, the next step is crucial: getting into action.
Your creative generalist mind is brilliant at generating ideas, but the real magic happens when you move from planning to execution. Many creatives know what it's like to feel stuck in overthinking and fear.
As I love to remind my clients (and myself!), "the most effective way to do something, well, is... to do it".
This means breaking free from the paralyzing "fear loop" where constant analysis keeps you from moving forward. Even small, consistent steps, like my client Patricia's commitment to dedicating an hour daily to applying for copywriting jobs, can lead to incredible breakthroughs, while helping you face often-unconscious fears stalling your success.
Rewiring Your Brain for Unshakeable Confidence
At the heart of getting unstuck is the understanding that your thoughts shape your reality, and you possess the power to choose what you think, believe, and act upon.
It’s about cultivating a mindset that believes in a positive outcome regardless of the current situation and actively working your way through fear. The goal is to gain clarity and confidence, silence your inner critic, and learn to love yourself for who you really are, and to choose what you truly want in your life, career, or business. This transformative work helped Catherine, who initially came to me looking for a mentor for day-to-day business but ultimately left a toxic partnership to build her own highly successful agency, all by developing the necessary mindset and self-confidence.
Your Path to Getting Unstuck
You don't need to have all the answers right now or know exactly how your "ideal days" will materialize. As I have learned, after working on this for a decade, the journey to getting unstuck involves embracing your unique strengths and allowing opportunities to emerge by creating space for them.
My tailored private coaching support acts as your secret business partner, helping you navigate challenges like building multiple income streams, finding purpose-driven work, or overcoming imposter syndrome.
If you have many interests and passions, a fear of choosing, and a strong aversion to boredom, if you feel overwhelmed by your many brilliant ideas, battle procrastination, or have a hard time silencing your inner critic, you might be a creative generalist.
The path to genuine fulfillment for multi-passionate people like you involves acknowledging your unique strengths, quieting the sabotaging voices within, and taking intentional, consistent action toward the life and career you truly desire.
It’s time to choose your thoughts and behavior actively, understand your unique creative brain, and build habits that will last, so you can move from doing nothing to finally stepping into your creative potential.
Ready to transform your idea overload into a clear, confident path forward?
What if you gave yourself permission to start imperfectly? What if you stopped waiting for the “perfect” moment, the “perfect” idea, or the “perfect” plan and began?
You have the power to take just one step today - one small action that brings you closer to your dreams. Take the first step towards getting unstuck and book a free coaching session today. Let's discover your unique "glue" and turn your creative generalist nature into your greatest asset!
Redefining Success: Breaking Free from Expectations to Find Your True Career Path
Picture this: you’re climbing your first career ladder, but as you're getting higher, you realise it’s propped against the wrong wall. For many young professionals, this eerie metaphor becomes reality. I know, because many of them end up sitting across from me in my career coaching practice. Trapped by societal norms and familial expectations, they often find themselves chasing inherited dreams instead of their own. The weight of these expectations, often combined with the financial safety net that their well-meaning parents provide, can feel suffocating, leading to self-doubt, boreout, confusion, and ultimately, burnout.
But what if there’s a way to step off the path carved for you and start carving your own? What if the freedom you’re yearning for isn’t as far away as it feels? In this post, I will share what I've learned supporting young professionals to find the career they love: their internal struggles, but also the actionable steps that helped them shift from feeling stuck to rediscovering their purpose.
It all starts with one question: What do you truly want?
The Struggles of Living Someone Else’s Dream
The Invisible Chains of Expectations
For many of us, family plays such an important role in shaping our dreams and ambitions. Parents dream of stability for us - the prestigious job, the paycheck with benefits, the degree you’ll hang on your office wall. While these aspirations come from a good place, they can overshadow your authentic desires. Over time, the life you’re building can feel more like a tribute to someone else’s dreams rather than a reflection of your own.
Have you ever asked yourself, "Whose success am I really striving for?" It’s a hard question, especially when external pressures reinforce the idea that there’s a "correct" path to success. Knowing whether you’re living authentically or on autopilot can be a challenge.
Losing Sight of Your Personal Vision
Here’s the paradox young professionals face today. On one hand, there’s the endless array of career options made possible by technology and a globalized economy. On the other hand, that incomprehensible amount of choices can lead to analysis paralysis. Because of this, I see many young professionals struggle with questions like: “Am I making the right choice?" or worse, "What if I’ve already made the wrong one?”
This fear of committing to the wrong career path often keeps people stuck. They stop moving forward, confused and uncertain about what their true vision for themselves actually looks like. If this is you, you're not to blame. The pressure of expectations and societal norms can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: there’s no single “right” path, and there’s immense power in simply taking the next step - no matter how small it may be - that feels right for you.
The Looming Threat of Burnout
When you continuously chase external validation - whether through promotions, LinkedIn likes, or climbing the corporate title ranks - burnout becomes almost inevitable. Burnout is a dreamkiller because it doesn’t just leave you exhausted; it leaves you questioning your worth, your purpose, and the very goals you once thought were right for you.
The good news? You’re not as stuck as you think. Below are practical ways to break the cycle.
3 Powerful Steps to Reclaim Your True Career Path
1. Reflect on Your Values and Passions
The first step to building a life you love is understanding what truly matters to you. It’s about going beyond what society or family expects and asking yourself:
What lights me up?
What do I value most - creativity, independence, or impact?
If I weren't afraid of what my parents or friends would think, what would I do differently today?
Find some quiet time to journal or think about these questions. Reflection is like decluttering - once you sort through the mess of other people's expectations about your life, you’ll begin to see your own dreams emerge.
What you can do right now
Block off an hour each week to write down the moments that brought you happiness and fulfillment. Look for patterns over time - they might reveal hidden passions or values you’ve overlooked.
2. Experiment With New Experiences
Finding your path isn’t about having all the answers upfront. It’s about trying new things and staying open to those "Aha!" moments. Maybe it’s volunteering for causes you care about, freelancing in a different field, or even pursuing a side project. Exploration is how you discover what energizes you.
Think of it like prototyping your career or microdosing your dreams. Not every attempt will succeed, but each one will bring new insights.
What you can do right now
Pick one thing you’ve always been curious about - learning graphic design, public speaking, investing - and dedicate 30 minutes a day to it for a month. You may uncover a passion or skill you never knew you were capable of.
3. Seek Guidance From a Mentor or Professional
Sometimes, the best way to make sense of our choices is by having someone help us see things through a fresh lens. A mentor or career coach can not only guide you through uncertainties but also provide the tools and strategies to identify your strengths and goals.
The key here is finding someone who listens without judgment and encourages you to think big. A career coach’s role isn’t to prescribe a solution but to help you chart the path that feels true to yourself.
What you can do right now
Reach out to someone you admire - a teacher, former manager, or industry leader. Ask for a coffee chat and approach it as a learning opportunity. Their perspective might spark clarity on your next steps.
Breaking Free Starts With One Choice
The pain of being stuck isn’t permanent. It’s a signal that something needs to change - and that change can start today. By reflecting on your values, exploring different paths, and seeking meaningful guidance, you’re not just rejecting the mold; you’re reclaiming your agency.
Remember: You don’t have to do it alone. Imagine having someone who truly listens, who gives you the tools to rewrite your story and step into a life that feels undeniably yours.
That life, the one filled with purpose, joy, and authenticity, is within your reach. It’s not a distant dream or something reserved for others; it’s waiting for you to claim it. Every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to the life you’re meant to live. And through it all, I want you to know this: I believe in you.
You are capable, resilient, and worthy of every beautiful moment ahead. The power to create your path is already in your hands. Keep going – you’ve got this!
Feeling stuck or weighed down by expectations?
You’re not alone - so many talented, creative souls end up living someone else’s story, unsure how to start writing their own. It’s easy to lose clarity amidst the noise and pressure.
Let’s discover what truly motivates and inspires you. I’m offering a free session to help you untangle expectations, reconnect with your authentic values, and set your sights on a future you choose - one that lights you up.
Job Envy: The Creative Generalist's Struggle and How to Turn It into Your Biggest Advantage
As a multi-passionate, creative individual, have you ever found yourself scrolling through LinkedIn, pausing on a "perfect" job title for a specialist, and feeling a pang (or two or three) of envy? You see someone thriving in a singular, focused role – perhaps a "Senior AI Developer" or an award-winning "Cupcake Master" – and for a fleeting moment, you think, "That's it! That's what I should be doing!" This phenomenon, known as "job envy," is, unfortunately, a common experience for creative generalists.
We live in a world that largely expects us to choose one thing and become experts in it. Growing up, I realised early that this wasn't going to work for me. Creative generalists, also known as multi-passionate creatives, polymaths, or multipotentialites, are wired differently; we need to combine various interests and quickly become bored once we've figured something out. Sound familiar?
This can lead to a "patchwork of jobs" or a history of starting new projects only to abandon them when the initial excitement fades. When you see someone seemingly "sticking with it" and achieving conventional success, it's natural for that inner critic to show up, reminding you of your own perceived lack of focus or commitment.
However, this envy is often a fleeting emotion because deep down, you know that a single, narrow path wouldn't truly fulfill you in the long run. What you're truly envying isn't the entire job, but rather specific aspects of it – the knowledge, the skills, the experience, or even just the sense of clear direction that specialist seems to possess. You’re not alone in feeling like a "mish-mash of random half-baked talents" despite having expensive degrees or diverse experiences. Many creative generalists I support feel misunderstood, out of place, and never good enough when compared to society's standards of success.
The good news is, you can transform this job envy from a source of self-doubt into a powerful catalyst for your own growth and clarity. Here are three strategies that have worked for me and many of my clients to use job envy to your advantage:
1. Deconstruct the envy: figure out what you really like about this job
Instead of wanting the entire job, break down what specifically attracts you to it. What is it about that "Senior AI Developer" role that sparks your interest? Why would you like to be celebrated at a Cupcake Master? Is it the challenge of solving complex technical problems, the intellectual stimulation of working with cutting-edge technology, or the delight of seeing people truly enjoy your delirious creations? For a creative generalist, the desire is often for the knowledge or skill associated with that role, as well as the recognition of it by others, rather than a long-term commitment to a singular career path (as that, in fact, is our kryptonite).
Action: When you feel a pang of job envy, pause and ask yourself:
What specific skills or knowledge does this person have that I'd love to acquire?
What problems do they solve, or what impact do they make, that resonates with me?
What aspects of their daily work excite me, even if the overall job doesn't?
By doing this, you're not trying to become that person; you're extracting valuable "ingredients" for your own unique "portfolio career". You're combining instead of choosing, my favorite thing to do when I'm helping a client create their dream career.
For example, a multi-passionate creative might be fascinated by how an AI developer builds chatbots and workflow automation and realize they want to learn those specific skills to differentiate themselves and teach others (like I currently am), not necessarily become a full-time developer. This clarifies your focus, helping you combine different interests into a meaningful whole (as I share in my book, you're the glue binding them all together, after all), that aligns with your innate curiosity and desire (or, should I say, need) for learning.
2. Disrupt your limiting beliefs and inherited dreams
Job envy often triggers deeply ingrained limiting beliefs and "inherited dreams," as I like to call dreams that we were given through our upbringing and experiences, about what success should look like. You might be subconsciously trying to fit into a blueprint of success that isn't yours, leading to feelings of not fitting in and frustration. Your inner critic might tell you, "This has been done before, it's not original," or "You're not confident enough to be an entrepreneur". These thoughts stem from a "fixed mindset" that resists change and follows conventional paths.
Action: Use job envy as a "disruptive strategy" to challenge these mental blocks:
When your inner critic shows up, question it. Where do these beliefs come from? Are they truly yours, or are they messages you've internalized from childhood, society, or past experiences?
Apply the "Solomon Effect": view your situation from an outside perspective. Ask yourself, "What would I tell my best friend or my child if they shared the same envy or self-doubt?"
Accept that there’s nothing "wrong" with you; you might have simply been "misdiagnosed" by a world that doesn't fully understand your multi-passionate brain. This shift in mindset can help you see new opportunities in all these jobs you'd like to have (without actually leaving your current job for them) and help you to finally feel like you belong (which you do!).
3. Cultivate grit and consistent action towards your vision
The comparison trap, especially professionally, can lead to inaction, leaving you "stuck" in an overthinking loop where you analyze every option but - drumrolls please, do absolutely nothing. You might find yourself "trying everything" but "not sticking to anything". Overcoming job envy requires transforming that envy into something constructive: concrete action, even if it feels uncomfortable.
Action: Move from contemplation to execution:
Question the "One Thing" Myth: Society often pushes us to choose one thing. But as a creative generalist, you don't have to. Allow yourself to have multiple job interests and weave them together.
Celebrate your unconventional path: Your career or work history might resemble a game of Snakes and Ladders, with twists and turns. This reflects the uniqueness of your brain and passions, not a flaw to be ashamed of! Don't compare yourself to the linear paths of specialists.
Recognize the growing value of generalists in the workplace: Luckily, things are improving, and more and more companies are hiring for skills and talents, actively looking for generalists who can juggle many hats and create bridges between ideas, projects, and people.
Remember, your diverse experiences and wide-ranging interests are your SUPERPOWER. They allow you to see possibilities and connections that others often overlook. The path you have walked, with all its twists and turns, is what makes you uniquely capable of tackling challenges with creativity, innovation, and resilience.
Own your story, lean into your strengths, and trust that your vast t-shaped breadth of knowledge and adaptability are exactly what the world needs. You are not an exception - you are an asset. Always believe in the power of being unapologetically, authentically you. I know I do!
Ready to Turn Your Multi-Passionate Job Envy into an Advantage?
Feeling stuck and unsure of how to channel your many passions into a fulfilling career can be overwhelming but here's the truth – your multi-passionate nature is a gift, not a burden.
If you're tired of just thinking about your goals and want to start working on them, let's connect for a free one-on-one coaching session. Together, we can find your own answers, chunk up your big projects, and help you find the flow and confidence to build the life and career you truly want.
Building Your Creative Income: 7 Practical Steps for Financial Freedom with a Portfolio Career.
Even though the days of job security and one job for life are long gone, the idea of it being replaced by a career solely focused on one area of expertise is also becoming outdated. Especially with the rise of the gig economy, more and more people are turning to portfolio careers to build their creative income. A portfolio career means having multiple sources of income, often in different industries or areas of work, rather than relying on one full-time job.
For many creatives, especially generalists, this type of career may already be familiar - working on freelance projects while having a part-time job or taking on various side gigs. But with careful planning and deliberate action, a portfolio career can be a sustainable and fulfilling way to build your creative income and achieve financial freedom while doing work you love!
In this article, I share insights from working with creatives (for a decade now!) on how to create a portfolio career that works for you. I hope it will inspire you to follow your career dreams and embrace the opportunities that come from having a portfolio career.
Embrace your unique generalist nature
As a creative generalist or someone with many interests and passions, the traditional linear career path with a single job and source of income often leads to bore-out, especially if your talents are being underutilized (which they usually are). Instead, a portfolio career combines multiple income streams aligned with your passions, interests, talents, and skills. That's the amazing part! But, however exciting this approach can be, it often feels financially precarious.
Many of my clients have expressed concerns about financial stability while pursuing their creative endeavors, a recurring theme when onboarding new coaching clients. They might feel like they don't have their "shit together." Or they might have innovative business ideas they're unsure how to market, like this wonderful creative who has been in wine and restaurant management before having a child and who came to me while working on a nut-free energy bar recipe geared towards new mothers, also considering an app focused on mother care. A typical way for a creative generalist to connect seemingly unconnected dots or, as I like to say it, discover their unique "glue."
7 Practical steps for financial freedom with a portfolio career
As a creative (generalist) and entrepreneur, building a multi-source income stream is crucial for long-term financial sustainability while allowing you the freedom to do work that truly fills you up. Here are some practical steps that worked for me and many of my clients to help you create your own thriving financial foundation:
#1 Map your talents and skills, and learn to appreciate them
As someone with a creative and entrepreneurial mind, you have many skills, talents, and interests. That's a given. But being clear about what you're good at and enjoy doing isn't always straightforward. Make a comprehensive list of everything you can do, from your professional experience to your hobbies and creative pursuits.
Consider how each of these can potentially generate income or how you could combine a few into a career. Don't underestimate the value of seemingly unrelated skills or interests; they can often be combined in unique and profitable ways.
#2 Diversify your income streams strategically
Multiple income streams are the cornerstone of a portfolio career and decide its financial sustainability. This can include freelance work, a part-time job (or "good enough job," as Barbara Sher calls it in her book Wishcraft), selling creative or online products, teaching workshops, consulting and coaching, or developing online courses.
The goal is to create a mix that provides both a stable base and opportunities for growth. Consider how you can use your different skills, talents, and interests to create a mix of income streams for your portfolio career.
#3 Understand that fear is the dreamkiller
As you start building a portfolio career, or if you've been thinking about what you could do for a long time but haven't taken any substantial action toward one or more ideas yet (hello, unfinished projects on the shelf, I see you!), it's important to acknowledge and understand that fear can be a major roadblock. Fear of failure, rejection, and not being good enough are all common fears that can hold us back from pursuing our dreams. The insidious thing is that fear often doesn't show up as fear. It disguises itself in very well-packaged excuses, such as "I don't have enough time" or "I'm not ready yet," or as perfectionism, people-pleasing, or procrastination.
It's important to remember that fear is just a feeling, and feelings can be managed and overcome. It's about shifting your perspective and learning to work through your fears.
#4 Price your services and products high enough
Many creatives struggle with pricing their work. Remember that your unique mix of skills and perspective brings significant value. Research industry rates, but also consider the value you bring to each project. As mentioned in my book "Get Unstuck!," building a business that feels right and using marketing practices aligned with your values is important.
Don't undervalue your expertise out of fear of not being good enough. Instead, price your services and products high enough to reflect the value you bring to the table. It is important for you to get fair compensation for your work and to help you build a sustainable business model.
#5 Collaborate and network with other creatives
Collaboration and networking are key components to any business or career, but as a creative generalist, I find it's more important than ever. We are still living in a world of specialists, and that can erode our self-worth and talk us out of our portfolio career dreams. By connecting with other creatives, you can expand your skills and knowledge through learning from others. Additionally, collaborating with others allows you to work on projects that may have been too large or complex to take on alone or that you were too scared to even start with!
My exclusive community, "Gen Spark," is here to do just that: facilitate collaboration and connection among creative generalists. Click here to discover more and become a member.
#6 Manage your finances mindfully
Financial management is key to making your portfolio career work - or any career or business for that matter. After working with creative entrepreneurs and generalists for a decade, I know that the admin and financial side of their careers and business are often not their strong suit. However, this doesn't have to stop you from being successful. With mindful and intentional financial management, you can stay on top of your finances and make good decisions about your career and business.
To start, it's important to understand the basics of personal finance, such as budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt. This will give you a solid foundation for making financial decisions that align with your goals and values. I know it sounds scary, but you can do it!
#7 Never stop learning and growing
Continuously learning and developing your skills is important for a successful portfolio career. But one thing that is more important than any other is learning how your creative brain works. That is why psychoeducation into the uniqueness of your creative brain is part of my work with my clients.
How good is it to know how you should do something if you are unaware of how your brain actually operates? Understanding your strengths and weaknesses and how to work with them can be a game changer in your portfolio career.
Building your creative income as a creative generalist takes time, intention, strategic planning, and an unwavering belief in the value and uniqueness of your multifaceted self. But once you have laid the foundation and established a solid portfolio career, the possibilities are endless.
Ready to take real steps towards building your own thriving portfolio career?
Are you done with being confined to just one career path and ready to embrace your multi-passionate nature? Are you tired of feeling like you have to choose between your different passions and skills?
I can help! In fact, liberating creative generalists from the 9 to 5 is what I do best. Let's discuss your unique skills, passions, and financial goals and start mapping out a strategy for your portfolio career.