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Hey Friends,

In today’s manifesto, we explore the transformative power of revisiting the things that once brought us joy—those effortless, playful moments from childhood—and how they can shape not only our self-concept but also the spaces we inhabit.

Let me take you into my world for a moment. I have a very small bedroom. It used to be my office, and to this day, it’s one of my favorite places in the house. Why? Because it represents something I’ve loved to do since I was young: transforming spaces into something beautiful, functional, and uniquely mine.

A Gift We Often Overlook

The other day, I was listening to a podcast where the host asked a thought-provoking question: What is something you loved doing as a child, something so natural and joyful that you’d lose track of time doing it?

Think about it. What was that thing for you?

For some, it might have been dressing up Barbie dolls, swapping outfits, and creating elaborate fashion moments. For others, it could’ve been building Lego masterpieces that only you could understand. These weren’t things you had to learn or perfect—they just came naturally. And more importantly, they made you happy.

For me, it’s creating spaces. Ever since I was young, I’ve loved rearranging furniture, organizing my room, and turning “nothing” into “something.” It wasn’t about making it perfect for anyone else; it was always about the joy of creating a space that felt like me.

The Bold Decision That Changed Everything

When I decided to turn my small office into my bedroom, people thought I’d lost my mind. Why move out of the spacious master bedroom into such a tiny space? It didn’t make sense to anyone else—but it made perfect sense to me.

The challenge of reimagining that room brought me alive. I loved every step of the process, from choosing the right furniture to finding clever storage solutions. And when it was done, I couldn’t stop marveling at how much I loved what I’d created.

Here’s the thing: no one else had to understand it. The transformation wasn’t for them. It was for me.

Reconnecting With Joyful Creativity

This experience got me thinking about how often we leave behind the things that brought us joy as children. We get so wrapped up in responsibilities and societal expectations that we stop doing things just because they make us happy.

But what if we brought those passions back into our lives—not for anyone else, but just for ourselves?

Imagine reconnecting with that childlike sense of curiosity and joy. You don’t have to tell anyone about it. You don’t need to monetize it or make it “productive.” Just do it because it makes you feel good.

The Ripple Effect of Doing What You Love

When I walk into my bedroom, I feel a deep sense of pride and confidence. That little room isn’t just a bedroom—it’s a reminder of what I’m capable of. It’s proof that I can turn “nothing” into “something” and create beauty in my life, even when others don’t see the vision.

And here’s what’s fascinating: that sense of accomplishment spills over into other areas of my life.

• Mood: Doing what I love lifts my spirits. I feel happier, lighter, and more present in my daily life.

• Confidence: Completing a creative project reminds me of my strengths, which naturally boosts my self-esteem.

• Problem-Solving: When I feel good about myself, I approach challenges with a higher-level mindset. I don’t get stuck in self-doubt; I trust my ability to find solutions.

This is the power of reconnecting with your joy. It’s not just about the activity itself—it’s about how it changes you.

How to Rediscover Your Joy

If you’re wondering how to start, here’s my invitation to you:

1. Reflect on Childhood Joys: Take a moment to think about the activities you loved as a child. What made you lose track of time? What brought you pure, unfiltered joy?

2. Pick One Thing: Choose one of those activities to reintroduce into your life. It doesn’t have to be big or time-consuming—just something that makes you smile.

3. Do It Just for You: Resist the urge to share it on social media or turn it into a side hustle. This is your thing. Let it be sacred and personal.

4. Observe the Changes: Pay attention to how you feel after engaging in your chosen activity. Notice how it impacts your mood, energy, and overall outlook.

Your Environment Reflects Your Energy

If you’re like me and love creating spaces, consider starting there. Look around your home and ask yourself:

• Does this space make me feel good?

• Is there a way to rearrange, repurpose, or refresh it to better align with who I am today?

Your environment is a reflection of your energy. When you create a space that feels good to you, it supports your growth, creativity, and well-being.

The Confidence to Show Up Bigger

Reconnecting with my love for creating spaces didn’t just make my home more beautiful—it changed how I show up in the world.

When you nurture your passions, you’re reminded of your unique gifts. You feel more grounded in who you are, which naturally elevates your self-concept. And when you operate from that higher level of self-belief, you approach life with a boldness that inspires others.

Your Turn to Create Joy

So here’s my challenge to you: reconnect with something you used to love. It could be painting, journaling, dancing in your living room, or building Lego cities. Do it for no other reason than the fact that it makes you happy.

And if you’re feeling inspired, take a look around your space. How can you turn “nothing” into “something” that feels uniquely you?

The world doesn’t need to understand your choices. You don’t need anyone’s permission to create joy. All that matters is how it makes you feel.

Live Pleasurably,

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