We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shannon Knight. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shannon below.
Shannon, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
As a psychotherapist in private practice, I had reached this point where I needed some additional outlet for my creativity – there’s only so many ways to be creative when you’re conducting therapy. In 2021 I started The Tarot Diagnosis podcast when I realized there was a significant connection between the images and meanings behind tarot and the work I was doing in therapy. I found the cards to be an avenue to explore and discuss the human experience in a creative and novel way. So, now I get to tap into my creativity through podcast creation, workshops, and social media content – which has been so fulfilling.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m a Johns Hopkins-trained psychotherapist who offers new and enlightening perspectives on tarot, mental health, personal growth, and the human experience on the podcast The Tarot Diagnosis. On the podcast, I seek to find the intersection of tarot, mental health, and self-inquiry in order to help folks better understand themselves and the world around them.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. Finding value in curiosity. Cultivating curiosity is like opening the door to endless possibilities and opportunities for learning and growth. Approach life with a curious mindset, asking questions, seeking new experiences, and staying open to different perspectives. Curiosity sparks innovation, creativity, and deeper connections with the world around you. Embrace curiosity as a driving force in your life, and you’ll continuously expand your horizons, broaden your knowledge, and enrich your overall wellbeing.
2. Defining, setting, and maintaining boundaries with friends, family, and colleagues. Boundaries are like fences that protect your mental, emotional, and physical space. When you define your boundaries, you establish guidelines for how you expect to be treated by others and how you’ll interact with them. Setting boundaries with friends, family, and colleagues is crucial for preserving your wellbeing and preventing burnout. Remember, it’s not selfish to prioritize your needs and assert your boundaries—it’s an essential act of self-care.
3. Unapologetically Self-Expression. By honoring your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, you cultivate self-acceptance and self-love. Remember, your authenticity is your greatest strength, and when you express yourself honestly, you invite deeper connections with others and create a life that reflects your true essence.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Feeling overwhelmed is inevitable – we’ve all been there. I’ve found that acknowledging my overwhelm and telling the people around me, in my inner circle, has been vital to coping with it. Folks are likely to step in and lend a helping hand, or at least an ear so you can vent.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.TheTarotDiagnosis.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thetarotdiagnosis
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thetarotdiagnosis
