Doing bold things this spring, together!
Big updates
Hi fellow lovers of letters, a short note on bravery today, because let’s be honest, we all have moments in which we wobble and worry and moments when we’re crystal clear on our Why, How and When.
(Disclaimer: Scroll to the end to find a new monthly section featuring upcoming community events)
Doing bold things and embracing bravery often comes with a catch: it’s only celebrated when you stay small, and content and avoid loudly proclaiming your achievements and aspirations, especially as a woman. No matter whether at work, amongst friends or family, internalised rejection from others sadly isn't uncommon. 2025 hasn’t changed that yet.
I’m tired so of playing small though.
Of being nice.
Of prioritizing others' comfort over my own growth.
What if the only thing holding us back is the size of everyone’s belief?
I’ve noticed that there are areas in life where everyone seems to have an opinion as soon as you make those big bold moves. Be it spirituality, well-being, careers, art, or parenting and everyone, even your neighbour’s uncle and colleague’s grandma want to share their thoughts with you all of a sudden. Here, walking a path less travelled can be especially challenging when you set out for uncharted waters.
In my eyes, the medicine we all need more of is doing everything in our power to learn trusting our own creative curiosity and bold judgment. Even when it's difficult to hear your inner voice, that gentle nudge in your belly, amidst the constant noise from all directions, screens and people, is the North Star.
Thankfully, we can gather the right people to witness us on our journey, a real community. Humans aren’t meant to do everything alone!
So, I'm curious: what bold dreams are you nurturing right now? What small, brave steps are you taking to make them a reality this year? How does walking the paths less travelled make you feel? Are you gathering the right people to witness your seeds grow and bloom this year so you can harvest in celebration?
As we move closer to spring, exciting things are brewing in my corner of the internet:
In a few weeks, I'm launching a paid community option on Substack for those who want to support my work– no plans for paywalls, just gratitude. This ties into the decade-long dream to one day found my own not-for-profit organisation for women (I’m deep in tax and NGO set-up rabbit holes in case you need me 😂)
Introducing "The Village Chats," a new community interview project evolving from
the Writer Village series within my Publication here, where I curate stories based on selected themes (currently paused).
Gather and Share, a project I started eight years ago on a cold, grey winter day in Berlin, focuses on sharing stories of expats across Europe.
I’ll share more details in a separate letter closer to the launch around the Spring Equinox. Get ready for women’s stories from the frontlines of what it’s like to shape and work within vibrant, thriving communities.
Revitalizing my role as a mentor and coach alongside my corporate job– and the exciting thing, it’s already happening, people are showing interest! You may have read about this already here.
And for you, an early International Women’s Day gift: if you're navigating change this spring– launching something new, making a big decision, stepping into the unknown, about to move country, write a course or buy a house– I’d love to be your mirror, sounding board, or someone to remind you how big you really can go. I’m here. 🦋
What you can win: A one-off 30-minute session with me. Whether you prefer a free call or a voice note, all I ask in return is a testimonial and recommendation of my writing and mentoring/coaching to your network. Think of it as a cozy, confidential chat with a friend.
This time, you don’t have to dream and do bold things alone.
You can read more about my background and values here:
And if you’re curious, simply fill in this form and I’ll reach out to one lucky winner - no strings attached. We’ll explore if we’re the perfect match for your topic.
Village Shares: community events coming up:
A new monthly curated community board for what’s on. Share yours in the comments or email me for a chance to be featured. Submission Deadline: Every 3rd Sunday of the Month!
Looking for:
Your stories about finding and sustaining friendships in your 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond. Share here, or here —> post featuring your shares coming soon
What’s on in March:
Following this note, a few women from my community shared their offering:
Free women’s circle on March 8 to honour International Women’s Day. Host:
Free 6-Day Clarity Challenge. Break free from indecision and anxiety. Host
Masterclass on how Human Design Centers influence your professional path. February 27. Host:
Pisces New Moon Workshop on February 28. Host
Coworking: Quiet ADHD Club every Thursday 2-3pm UK time. Host:
That’s it from me today. 🫶 Thank you for reading and celebrating the first few spring announcements 🌱. If you’re new here, you are now warmly invited to join a growing community of readers, here in this online space dedicated to the art of rest, rituals and nurturing rhythms in business and life. Read more about me here.
One of the bold dreams I’m nurturing right now is working towards a book. It’s something that’s been quietly growing in my heart for a while, and this year, I’m finally giving it the attention it deserves. I try to write daily — even when the words come slowly, even when doubt creeps in! I’ve wobbled off the wagon many times. I keep coming back.
I hear you on feeling tired of playing small, Carmen. Here's to being bold and brave! It sounds like you have some exciting evolutions coming up!! I'm celebrating you 💃✨ and I want to say thank you for including my upcoming new moon workshop here!