The Art of Squeezing It All In
Me standing in front of Barbara Kruger, LACMA, LA
The most frequent question I hear is: "How do you fit it all in?" Beyond my roles as a mom, wife, daughter, aunt, and friend, I lead a full-time design team at a major retail company, teach future designers at a local university, create art, and occasionally collaborate on poetry with my husband—who, truth be told, is far more committed to it than I am. My days are rich with purpose, and I wouldn’t trade this layered life for anything.
This year, I’m embracing a new chapter as a blogger. It’s not about adding another item to an already full plate; it’s about creating a space to unpack what it takes to live a multi-dimensional life. This blog is for anyone who’s ever felt pulled in countless directions yet still craves growth, connection, and impact. It’s for those who find beauty in the imperfection of effort and want to explore how messy progress can lead to meaningful outcomes.
As a design leader, I’m not here to offer one-size-fits-all solutions or quick fixes. Life defies neat categorizations and carefully planned systems. Instead, I’ll share insights and stories from my own journey: what has worked, what hasn’t, and what I’m still figuring out. Together, we’ll explore themes like balancing ambition with presence, finding moments of creativity amidst chaos, and redefining success on our own terms.
Welcome to this new endeavor. Whether you’re a parent, designer, artist, or someone navigating the complexities of modern life, I hope you’ll find value here. This journey isn’t just about squeezing everything in; it’s about discerning what truly matters and carving out space to honor it.
Five Principles for a Full and Intentional Life
1. Every Day Can Have Only One Priority
At the start of each day, I identify the single most important focus—whether it’s a work milestone, my child’s school event, or a friend’s celebration. Once the priority is clear, everything else becomes secondary. Clear communication ensures alignment, whether it’s asking my husband to take over parenting duties or letting my team know I’ll step out early. Prioritization isn’t about doing less; it’s about doing what matters most.
2. If You’re Adding Something New, Start Small
Big changes can be daunting. When I began writing, I committed to just 15 minutes a day, fitting it between meetings or after dinner. Sometimes those 15 minutes turned into an inspired 45. Consistent small actions build momentum, eventually forming habits that grow into something significant.
3. Embrace the Messy Middle and Let Go of Guilt
Early in my career, I felt guilty when I couldn’t give 100% to everything. Over time, I realized not all tasks require perfection. My PowerPoint presentations don’t need flawless kerning, and my daughter doesn’t mind if her lunchbox isn’t Pinterest-worthy. Focusing on where effort truly counts allows me to let go of unnecessary guilt and direct my energy where it matters most.
4. Create Rituals or Block Time for What Grounds You
A fulfilling life requires making time for meaningful connections. Without intention, relationships can fade into sporadic text exchanges. I block time for grounding rituals: long Saturday lunches with my husband during my daughter’s dance class, nightly chats with my daughter (except on my weekly friend nights), and a monthly book club with people who inspire me. These holds transform intentions into reality and bring joy without overthinking.
5. Manage Your Emotions to Stay Anchored
Even the best plans can go awry when emotions take over. Bad days happen, but they don’t have to derail everything. I use strategies like meditation, quick walks, or making art to reset. Finding your own way to process emotions helps you stay grounded and connected to the life you’re building.
Join the Conversation
I’d love to hear from you! What challenges do you face in leading a multi-dimensional life? Which of these principles resonates with you the most? Or do you have your own strategies for making it all work? Share your thoughts in the comments below or reach out directly. Let’s engage in a dialogue about embracing the messy, beautiful art of living with intention.
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