Navigating family, Covid and Growth : Marianne Bird
Tell us in a few sentences how your brand helps others?
I choose to remain curious. I think brilliantly. I remain bold. I always keep it real. I AM THE CREATOR of visualvo*ce. I believe answers can be found in the most unexpected places. Looking at problems differently helps to inspire my work in new and interesting ways. The world is our playground that allows us to Explore. Expand. Resolve.
Taking risks and trying new things is in my creative blood and I stand behind what I believe to be true. I choose clients who have the gumption to go further.
It’s not about being different for the sake of being different. It’s about pushing the boundaries of engagement by truly understanding what people VALUE most. I openly anticipate, imagine and invent visual experiences that will help the brands I partner with have more meaning in people’s lives.
What was your initial inspiration that got you to where you are today?
I always had a vision be my own boss and have that freedom to create the day on my terms. This was the driving force that inspired me years ago to learn all I could in my first 10 years once I graduated from college from some of the very best in the design industry. At that point I took that leap of faith. Now 25 years later, I'm proud to say visualvo*ce is still going strong.
When you started your most recent path, did you ever envision that you would be where you are now?
No. Life takes many turns. Has ups and downs and everything in-between. My career has taken me in many directions and introduced me many areas of creative and tested me 10-fold. I never pictured where I am today in my career. I've worked with lead photographers, worked in retail design, marketing, corporate branding, packaging design, interior and most recently photography and painting. Being true to my authentic creative side I never rest. My mind is always wanting to stay open and challenged.
Was there ever a time that things didn't fall into place, struggles or challenges? What were they and how did you get past it and grow from the experience?
This is a loaded question. I'm not one to put blame on anyone or thing in my life. I like to hold myself accountable for my life and business, however to answer this question honestly, Covid really did a number on me mentally. I found I became complacent (who knew I could become like this) I lost my confidence and drive because work slowed to an almost abrupt halt. I felt lost for the first time in my career.
At first I put the focus on my girls and their studies at home. One was in her graduating year of college and my youngest in grade 8. It was challenging enough not having enough work to keep my creative juices happy and to add to that, being a home-schooling parent (certainly want my forte) and consoling two girls who were missing their everyday life.
I turned to personal development books. Read them daily (and this has become a wonderful habit now). Started every day at 4:30 am (even weekends) so I'd get time in for me to run, read, meditate, and have a clear head before the day changed over to sad energy in our home.
I feel I grew as a mom and business woman because I became very patient and more open for change and knowing "this to shall pass" and we grew as a family from these last two years really appreciating the quiet togetherness times along with the uncertainty because we realized the three of us had each other and we could rely on each other to lift the other up.
What was the biggest lesson you learned during this journey?
Good communication, listening intently and faith have been monumental lessons in my journey to date. As my journey continues, belief and self-love are huge players in my development as a strong woman, mom and friend.
What would you tell a FEM that is struggling in her business and feeling like it's too difficult?
Breathe! Take a day or two for yourself and disconnect. The universe never gives us more that we can handle. Find your person/people and ask for help. We women tend to be martyrs and think we have to do it all and be super woman. We are actually adding more fuel to the fire and not growing when we put such a demand on ourselves. We are so much stronger when we utilize all the other resources out there (that we can't possibly do all ourselves) to help make that change in our business. There's an abundance of resources, people, coaches, mentors, etc, out there to offer up the help.
Most importantly ... never give up. You're greatness and success will happen and is just on the other side of your fear of failing. It's hard work, I won't lie and worth all the extra hours that need to be put in, along with tears and uncertainty and friends and family not understanding. If you want it bad enough you will push through the hard times. Always.
What continues to inspire you to keep on growing your business?
The idea of creative living and personal time freedom drives me and every cell in my body every single day to keep going. Also, knowing every new day will present its challenges that offer new lessons, knowledge, wisdom and growth to become a better self-made creative human.
Final advice for those thinking of starting a business or looking to grow their current business?
If you want it. Go for it! Understand that you will probably will suck at it at first. Doesn't mater. Don't be afraid to try something new if you've failed and want to change again. Know what you value and know your personal value. Think and dream bigger than your wildest dreams. We tend to think way too small because we aren't deserving. I know I did for far too long. It truly is amazing what happens when you believe in you.
Where can FEMS follow your journey or connect with you?
Follow me on IG at https://www.instagram.com/creative.ceo.mom/ or on FB at https://www.facebook.com/mbcreativspace
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