Lessons & Intentions

What I've learned last year and what I intend to do this year

Hello and welcome to The Curious Magpie, I’m Océane and once a month I write an essay about life, curiosity or creativity. My hopes, dreams, fears and everything else in between. Thank you for coming along and I hope you enjoy reading my words.

Is there a better time of the year to write a brief re-introduction post? Probably not, so here I go with some reflections on the past year and some open intentions about the year ahead.

Hello, I’m Océane and I enjoy inspiring people to find moments of curiosity and creativity amidst their busy lives. As part of this publication, I offer creative prompts related to writing, journaling, collaging, drawing, photography, crafts, and more. I host monthly online drawing sessions called Draw Together and honestly share my own creative journey, which I navigate alongside a full-time office job and the responsibilities of parenting two boys. I’m a multi-creative person, I enjoy writing fiction and non-fiction, drawing, designing repeat patterns, creating collages, and taking photos.

In January, I always encourage people to take time to daydream, reflect on the person they were at this time last year, and consider the person they are now. These changes aren’t always obvious physical transformations that occur with each passing year; they also involve shifts in our thoughts and feelings. While the changes may be subtle unless a significant event occurred in the previous year, we all evolve annually, even if it’s just getting to know ourselves a bit better.

Lessons from 2024

My word of the year for 2024 was SLOW, and it really shaped my year. After a tough restructuring at my office job the previous year, I was feeling stressed and close to burnout. It was hard to find time for a creative career on the side, and I thought it was impossible to achieve. But by embracing my word throughout the year, I took slow but deliberate steps towards the life I wanted without putting too much pressure on myself. I realised that putting myself gently out there into the world without expectations felt like enough.

Starting this publication in May wasn’t something I had planned, but it was something I had been thinking about for a while. It happened at the perfect time and helped me rediscover my writing voice, which I had thought was lost forever. For a long time, I had felt that my many creative interests were a flaw in my DNA. I thought that one person shouldn’t have so many passions. I had to choose one and stick with it. If I ever dreamed of quitting my office job and working for myself, I had to find my niche. I hate that word!

Last year, two things happened that really changed my perspective.

First, I started spending more time on Substack as a writer and reader. I was blown away by how many other multi-creatives there were out there. People who write, teach music, make pottery, and are experts in interior design, people who write fiction and non-fiction, people who draw, embroider, and write - you name it, there is someone on Substack who was doing it. And guess what? We don’t have to have just one passion or suppress any part of ourselves to fit in. We can just be ourselves and make our own path.

Second, I read this incredible book titled How To Be Everything by Emilie Wapnick. It was like a lightbulb went off in my head. Emily discusses these individuals known as ‘multipotentialites’ who possess a diverse range of interests and passions. Throughout the book, there are engaging guided exercises that I thoroughly enjoyed. One such exercise involved writing down all the activities you’d love to pursue in life, without any limitations which was really fun to do.

The book delves into various career options based on your personality and the type of ‘multipotentialite’ you are. It’s a book I’ve previously recommended, and I can see myself revisiting as my creative journey progresses.

Intentions for 2025

This year, I’m determined to embrace everything I’ve learned and present myself as my authentic, unapologetic self. No more hiding or trying to fit into moulds that weren’t meant for me.

Although I haven’t received formal training as an illustrator or artist, I’ve been drawing since 2019. I have learnt a lot but I’m also still learning. My university studies were in Publishing and Screenwriting, which makes it easier for me to identify as a writer. However, calling myself an artist still feels like a big leap. It’s ridiculous, right? Just go figure!

The truth is, I’ve subconsciously concealed my self-taught status, partly due to shame and partly because I was afraid people wouldn’t take me seriously. I worried they’d see me as a hobbyist rather than someone deeply committed to my craft. But this year, I want to own my journey—self-taught, imperfect, and all—and trust that the right people will recognise the value in my work.

Another aspect I’d like to discuss more openly is my work situation. I have a full-time day job, and I’m a multi-creative by night and on weekends. Of course, I’d love to leave my day job or find a part-time job in a bookshop or library. However, realistically, that’s not financially feasible right now, especially considering we’re living in London. (And I’m not ready to leave London, to be honest. I’m not sure I ever will be!)

What I’m learning is that I don’t have to define myself as a part-time creative. Instead, I’m going to start saying that I’m a creative with a day job that supports my art. It’s not ideal, but it provides a solid foundation that allows me to grow and pursue my dreams while also financially supporting my family and lifestyle.

This year, I’m committed to embracing my self-taught journey, owning my story, and presenting myself in all aspects of my creativity.

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This essay may contain affiliate links to Bookshop.org which pays me a small commission, and gives a matching commission to independent bookshops for any purchases you make.

Please consider telling a few friends if you feel you enjoyed reading or listening to this, curiosity is a life ingredient that’s always better shared. Thank you! Océane xoxo