We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kimberly Lavon a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Kimberly, thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.
My personal favorite ways to overcome creative/writer’s block are:
1. Step outside and connect with nature! In today’s digital age, people often find themselves glued to their phones, TVs, or computer screens. Spending too much time in the pixelated world can leave you feeling like a drooling zombie. Reconnecting with nature can combat this time-consuming distraction and rejuvenate your creative energy.
2. Engage with creative friends and collaborate on co-building projects. Gaining fresh perspectives from others can be incredibly inspiring. Consider taking a creative class to explore a topic you’ve always wanted to learn more about but never had the time to do so. The aim is to break away from old patterns and try something new, which can lead to exciting new ideas.
3. Review and refine your creative process. Creating something you’re proud of often requires significant time, resources, and support. By updating or creating a streamlined creative process, you can make the challenging parts easier and focus more on the magic that drives your creativity. A well-structured system can save you from monotonous busy work and create valuable time and space for exploration. Personally, this approach was a game changer for me.
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?
WHAT I DO: Mint Maven’s mission is to transform struggling artists into wealthy creatives by equipping them with the essential tools to both create art and generate income.
WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT IT: If college represents the thesis and D.I.Y. stands as the antithesis, then Mint Maven serves as the synthesis – a harmonious blend of college and D.I.Y., providing innovative solutions. I have personally experienced the success of this system, having built a thriving international creative career. Now, I’ve transformed this knowledge into a business to assist others like me, passionate about their creativity, but in need of the resources and guidance required to flourish.
WHAT’S NEW?: Introducing Creative Compass, the latest addition to Mint Maven’s offerings. In our one-hour 1:1 consultation, we delve into your business fundamentals. Together, we identify what’s working, what’s not, and envision your desired destination. We will map out what “perfection” looks like for you and help you achieve it. After our session, you’ll receive a customized funding plan that includes two solutions along with step-by-step instructions to test each approach. The entire system is available online in Notion, allowing you to edit, add your information, and download it as needed. This comprehensive system fully supports both your creative pursuits and financial success – a true win-win scenario.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Resilience • Flexibility • Kindness
RESILIENCE: Life may present moments of both amazement and challenge. Remember, everything is temporary. Whatever you’re experiencing, whether positive or negative, will eventually pass. Embrace the good times with gratitude and persevere through the tough times. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you find yourself stuck or in need. There are caring individuals, like myself, who want to see you succeed and are willing to lend a hand.
FLEXIBILITY: Plans can change, and people may reschedule or forget due to the busy nature of adult lives. Be understanding and flexible, especially if you value your relationship with others. Allow them the space and grace they need, understanding that everyone faces their own challenges on a daily basis. Show compassion and patience, as you may find yourself in a similar situation one day and would appreciate the same consideration.
KINDNESS: Cultivate kindness as a guiding principle – always. Be kind to both yourself and others. Why? Because negative internal dialogues have a way of manifesting externally at the most inopportune times and places. Break the cycle of hurt by leading with kindness and compassion. Demonstrating kindness goes a long way in nurturing connections with current and potential clients, as well as future co-building partners. Strive to be a good human because talent alone can only take you so far.
How would you describe your ideal client?
If you identify as a professional creative or artist, work in the arts and need funding help Mint Maven is for you. If this sounds like you let’s talk!
Our Ideal Client:
• Identify as a creative or artist.
• Work in the Arts or creative.
• Work at an Arts Non-profit.
• Have a dedicated budget to begin services.
• Communicates with kindness.
• Follows instructions.
• Respects personal and professional boundaries.
• Technologically savvy (able to use the internet.)
• Ability to deliver requests by a deadline.
• US or Canada based.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mintmaven.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mintmaven.co
- Linkedin: www.LinkedIn.com/in/kimberlylavon
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kimberlylavon3583
- Other: https://bio.site/mintmaven.co
Image Credits
Photography by FirstLast Media LLC, Kimberly Lavon INK and Mint Maven ©2023
