We recently connected with Sarah Caum and have shared our conversation below.
Sarah, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
This is a great question as it touches upon an important aspect of personal growth and resilience. Like many people, I’ve encountered challenges related to mental health throughout my journey. I was dealing with high levels of stress and anxiety due to the pressures of being a single mom combined with past traumas still stored in my nervous system. Being faced with the need for change, I took several steps to address the situation. I sought help from a mental health professional who provided me with effective strategies for managing stress and anxiety and underwent countless hours of intensive trauma counseling. Through consistent effort and cultivating a strong support system, I gradually saw improvements in my mental well being. A more balanced personal life came when I gained the ability to regulate my nervous system and handle pressure. This experience taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and vulnerability. I’ve learned to prioritize self-care and seek help when needed, which I believe are essential skills in any professional setting. Moving forward, I’m committed to maintaining a healthy work-life balance and utilizing the tools I’ve acquired to overcome challenges. I firmly believe that my experience has made me a more empathetic and resilient individual, traits that I’m eager to bring to any future challenges.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
With a background spanning the realms of abstract painting, metal sculptures, and entrepreneurial ventures, I am known for pushing the boundaries of traditional artistic mediums. Drawing inspiration from the interplay of colors, textures, and emotions, I like to channel my artistic energy into abstract paintings that challenge conventional boundaries and invite viewers into a world of imagination. Beyond the canvas, I wield the power of metal as a medium of transformation. Using welding and bending techniques, I craft metal sculptures that merge the industrial and the artistic, giving life to raw materials through intricate designs and meticulous craftsmanship. Each sculpture tells a story of juxtaposition and harmony, reflecting a deep understanding of the physical and emotional properties of metal. Not content with confining my creativity to the studio, I am a business owner and construction contractor, infusing artistic vision into every project undertaken. This unique perspective allows me to blend the worlds of aesthetics and practicality, resulting in creations that are both functional and visually captivating.
Beyond my artistic endeavors, I am a true advocate for growth and a dedicated community member, volunteering my time and expertise for a local non-profit organization, Smith County Events based in Carthage, TN. To me, a commitment to giving back reflects a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of art to uplift and inspire.
With aspirations as vast as my artistic talents, I dream of a future where I can sustain myself solely through my creative endeavors. My upcoming debut solo art show on September 16, 2023 promises to be a milestone in this journey, providing a platform for my diverse artistic expressions to shine. It’s an opportunity for art enthusiasts and newcomers alike to witness the evolution of a visionary artist who continually pushes the boundaries of what art can be.
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?
Three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful on my journey are resilience, emotional intelligence, and continuous learning. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges. It played a crucial role in my journey by helping me navigate through tough times and stay committed to my goals. When faced with obstacles, I learned to view them as opportunities for growth rather than roadblocks. To develop resilience, early-stage individuals can practice reframing setbacks as learning experiences, setting realistic expectations, and cultivating a positive mindset. Seeking support from mentors, friends, or a support network can also help build resilience. Emotional intelligence involves understanding and managing your own emotions while also being attuned to the emotions of others. It takes self-awareness, empathy, communication skills, and conflict resolution to improve one’s emotional intelligence. The world is constantly evolving, and the ability to adapt through continuous learning is vital. Embracing a growth mindset and being open to acquiring new knowledge and skills has allowed me to stay relevant and innovative. For those starting out, dedicating time for self-education, enrolling in courses or workshops, and exploring various resources like books, podcasts, and online tutorials can be immensely beneficial. Networking with professionals in your field and attending conferences can also provide valuable opportunities for learning and growth. My advice for Early-stage Individuals would be to set clear goals. Define your long-term aspirations and break them down into achievable short-term goals. This provides a roadmap for your journey and helps you stay focused and motivated. Embrace failure. Don’t fear failure; instead, see it as a stepping stone to success. Learn from your mistakes and setbacks, and use them to refine your skills and strategies. Build a support network. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and supporters who can offer guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and insights. Stay curious. Cultivate a curious mindset and actively seek out new information and experiences. Embrace challenges as chances to learn and grow. Practice self-care. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is crucial for long-term success. Balance your efforts with adequate rest, exercise, and relaxation. Iterate and improve. Continuously assess your progress, identify areas for improvement, and be willing to adapt your strategies as you gain experience and insights.
Remember, success is a journey, not a destination. Stay dedicated, remain adaptable, and keep pushing your boundaries to reach your fullest potential.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
“The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk played a pivotal role in my personal development by shedding light on the profound connection between trauma and the human body. Through its compelling exploration of the intricate ways in which trauma impacts our physical and mental well-being, the book offered me a new perspective on healing and self-discovery. One of the most impactful nuggets of wisdom from the book is the notion that trauma is not just confined to the mind but is deeply rooted in the body’s physiological responses. The author delves into the concept of how unresolved trauma can manifest as various physical and psychological symptoms, emphasizing the importance of addressing both aspects for holistic healing.
Furthermore, “The Body Keeps the Score” underscored the significance of incorporating body-based approaches, such as yoga, meditation, and somatic therapy, into the healing process. These techniques empower individuals to reconnect with their bodies, release stored tension, and foster a sense of agency over their recovery journey.
Ultimately, the book illuminated the transformative power of acknowledging, processing, and integrating traumatic experiences, allowing me to embark on a path of self-awareness, resilience, and renewed well-being.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/art.caum?igshid=MmIzYWVlNDQ5Yg==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caummetalworks?mibextid=LQQJ4d
