A Passion Born From Change

Introduction

Change has never been simple for me. For as long as I can remember, I’ve sought out stability—the kind of stability that lets you rest easy knowing what to expect, where to go, and who to trust. I thrived in environments where routine ruled the day, where the familiar was my safety net, and the future seemed clear. I definitely had ambitions and dreams—I just preferred to have the map in hand before venturing forward.

I liked knowing the route before I hit the road. I found comfort in rhythms, in certainty, in the small rituals that made up each day. There was something soothing about predictability—the way it held space for me, made room for quiet creativity, and kept the unknown at bay.

But over the past seven, almost eight years, everything in my life has been shaken up in the most profound ways. The stability I cherished, the predictability I clung to, was slowly pulled out from under me as I faced a series of personal and professional changes that have redefined who I am, both as a person and as an artist. Some of those changes were expected; others arrived like a tidal wave with no warning at all. And in the midst of that upheaval, I had a choice—fight to return to the safety of what was, or lean into the uncertainty and see what might grow there.

Looking back, it’s clear that all of these changes have played a crucial role in shaping Anam Cara Clay Goods—my very own passion project that has flourished amid transformation. What started as a creative outlet during a season of disorientation slowly became a source of purpose, connection, and renewal. Every color I mix, every texture I press into clay, every collection I design holds pieces of the journey—both the messy and the magical. And while change may still feel uncomfortable, even unwelcome at times, I’ve come to see it as a powerful companion in the creative process.

Saying Goodbye to My Career as a Chef: The Grieving Process I Went Through

The first major change came when I made the difficult decision to leave behind a well-established career as a chef. For years, cooking wasn’t just what I did—it was who I was. It was an art form, a way to express myself, and a path that allowed me to connect with others through the love of food. I was good at it. I had earned respect in my field, and from the outside, it looked like I was set—a stable, predictable future lay ahead in a world I knew well.

But despite the success and recognition, something deeper was stirring within me. A quiet, persistent nudge toward something different. Something more in tune with my evolving creative instincts. At first, I tried to ignore it, pushing down the discomfort and uncertainty. But the feeling only grew stronger. I began to sense that I had outgrown the space I once thrived in, that the kitchen—once my sanctuary—was no longer where I felt most alive.

Leaving wasn’t just a career change; it was a deeply emotional, almost spiritual unmooring. Letting go of that identity meant saying goodbye to a part of myself. I went through what I can only describe as a grieving process. Walking away required me to face a tangle of emotions—fear, loss, self-doubt—but also a surprising sense of relief and curiosity. For the first time in a long time, I was free to imagine what else might be possible.

It was a leap of faith into the unknown, with no map and no guarantees. But that leap marked the beginning of a new chapter—one that would eventually lead me here, to Anam Cara Clay Goods. A space where creativity, connection, and transformation meet in ways I never could have predicted.

“It’s okay to let go of what no longer serves you, and sometimes, that’s the very thing that opens the door to something better.”

Letting Go, Leaning In

For a long time, I held on tightly—so tightly—to the belief that cooking was the only way I knew how to be in the world. I had built a life around it, an identity, a rhythm. The thought of stepping away felt like abandoning a part of myself. So I resisted. Told myself I could make it work if I just tried harder, pushed a little more. But deep down, I knew something was shifting. Quietly, insistently, I was being asked to grow in a different direction.

That shift didn’t come gently. It showed up as frustration. I wrestled with questions I didn’t want to answer. Was I giving up? Had I wasted all that time? I was angry—at the pressure I’d put on myself, at the limitations I couldn’t ignore anymore, at the unfairness of it all. I was tired. And still, I didn’t want to let go.

I tried to find a middle ground. A way to stay connected to that life without losing myself in it again. Maybe I could keep one foot in the kitchen, just enough to stay tethered to what felt familiar. But the more I tried to straddle both worlds, the more I realized it wasn’t sustainable. I was spreading myself too thin, and I wasn’t showing up fully anywhere. The truth was clear: to step into something new, I had to fully release what had been.

That release was heavy. It felt like mourning. I grieved the heartbeat of the kitchen—the sounds, the motion, the shared language of a line staff in full swing. I missed the beauty of a perfectly plated dish, the quiet pride that came with feeding people well. Letting that go felt like walking away from a piece of my heart. But I let myself feel it. I honored what it had meant to me. That was part of the healing too.

And then, slowly, space opened up. Space for wonder. For curiosity. For something new to take root.

That’s when I found clay—or maybe it found me. It started as a small experiment, something to do with my hands when I wasn’t sure what to do with my life. But it grew. It gave me a way to create again. A way to connect beauty and meaning in a different form. It reminded me that I could build something entirely new without losing the spirit of who I’ve always been.

Leaving my old career behind wasn’t a clean break or a neat timeline. It was a tangled, emotional, deeply human process. But in that process, I rediscovered myself—not as a chef, but as a maker, a storyteller, and someone capable of starting over with heart and intention.

That journey is what gave life to Anam Cara Clay Goods. A place for color, connection, and creativity. A reminder that we’re always allowed to begin again—and that what we create in the wake of letting go can be more joyful, more life-giving, than we ever imagined.

The Hard Truths of Moving Away from Home and Community

Shortly after stepping away from my culinary career, life asked me to make another bold move—this time, quite literally. My husband and I found ourselves packing up and leaving behind the only home we had ever known. It wasn’t just a change in zip code; it was a full uprooting of everything familiar. I was saying goodbye to the spaces that had shaped me, the people who had walked alongside me for years, and the deep sense of belonging that comes with long-standing community ties. It felt like tearing away from a version of myself that had always known exactly where she stood.

This transition was both terrifying and oddly exhilarating. There was a flicker of excitement beneath the surface, but it was often drowned out by waves of uncertainty and grief. Moving meant more than starting over—it meant letting go of a life I had built piece by piece, and stepping into a new chapter without a clear picture of what it would hold.

But life has a funny way of meeting you with grace when you’re brave enough to take a risk. Not long after the move, I found myself at Innisfree Village—a community that would end up changing my life in ways I never could have anticipated. At first, it was simply a job opportunity, a way to start fresh in a new place. But it quickly became something so much more.

Innisfree gave me room to breathe and begin again. It offered a sense of purpose that went beyond a paycheck—it invited me to align my work with my values, to connect with others in meaningful, heart-centered ways, and to rediscover parts of myself I didn’t even realize I had lost. It was there that I began to truly understand the kind of life I wanted to live—one rooted in creativity, compassion, and intentional community.

“Life has a funny way of meeting you with grace when you’re brave enough to take a risk.”

Leaving the only home and support system I had ever known cracked something open in me. It forced me to confront what I was really searching for—not just stability, but wholeness. It’s one thing to chase safety; it’s another to chase a life that feels true. And in the messy in-between of letting go and starting over, I found clarity, growth, and an unexpected sense of belonging that began to piece me back together.

Here are some of the hard truths I’ve learned through this transformative experience:

The Comfort of Familiarity Doesn’t Prepare You for the Loneliness of Change

Moving away from everything I knew meant leaving behind friends, family, and the daily rhythms that had shaped my life. Even though I was excited for new opportunities, there was an undeniable loneliness that came with it. The people and places I took for granted weren’t just nearby anymore—they were distant. It took time to truly understand that loneliness doesn’t just mean being physically alone. Sometimes, it means feeling disconnected from your own sense of belonging.

Not Everything Can Be Replaced

In the beginning, I thought I could easily create a new version of my past life. I’d make new friends, build a new community, and everything would eventually feel just as comfortable. But the truth is, not everything can be replaced. There are certain connections, traditions, and moments that are uniquely tied to a particular place and time. Moving away taught me that some things, like the familiarity of home or the comfort of long-established relationships, simply can’t be replicated.

Growth Requires Discomfort

It’s often said that growth happens outside of your comfort zone, but when you're in the midst of it, it’s not always as glamorous as it sounds. Being away from home forced me to confront many aspects of myself that I hadn’t fully recognized before—like my tendency to rely on the stability of familiarity. Yet, it’s precisely in those moments of discomfort that I found the strength to stretch beyond what I knew and develop resilience. I had to learn to trust myself and the new path I was carving, which meant facing discomfort head-on.

You Can’t Always Control How Things Turn Out

When you leave everything behind and start fresh, you can’t predict the outcome. Things don’t always go as planned, and there’s a lot of unpredictability in the process. I quickly realized that I couldn’t control every single aspect of my new life. What I could control was my response to it. Some of my most meaningful lessons came from being able to let go of my need for perfection and accept that life had its own rhythm, one that didn’t always align with my expectations.

You Are the One Who Defines Your Home and Community Perhaps the most important lesson I learned is that your sense of home and community isn’t dictated by geography—it’s shaped by the people you surround yourself with and the values you hold close. While leaving home physically was hard, I realized that the concept of "home" can be built anywhere. It’s about creating connections with new people, engaging in activities that align with your passion, and finding spaces that nourish you—whether those spaces are physical, emotional, or both.

Moving away from home opened my eyes to these hard truths, and while they were difficult to face, they also taught me the power of adaptation and the value of embracing change. As I continue my journey, I now understand that change isn’t just something to endure—it’s something that has the potential to transform us into a more authentic version of ourselves. And for that, I am deeply grateful.

Grappling with Health Struggles

Amid all these changes, I was also navigating the ongoing challenges of my health, particularly my endometriosis diagnosis. The physical and emotional toll of dealing with a chronic condition added another layer of complexity to my already tumultuous life. There were days when the pain and uncertainty felt overwhelming. I had to learn how to advocate for my health, how to listen to my body, and how to live with an unpredictable condition while also pursuing my dreams.

My health struggles were a constant reminder that life doesn’t always go according to plan. But, rather than allowing those struggles to limit me, I chose to see them as a catalyst for change. Endometriosis forced me to slow down and reflect on what truly mattered, and it gave me the strength to pursue things that made me feel alive—things like creativity, self-expression, and building something of my own.

When I first received my endometriosis diagnosis, I felt a sense of powerlessness. For so long, I struggled with pain, uncertainty, and an overwhelming lack of understanding about my condition. Like many others living with endometriosis, I felt isolated and frustrated by the absence of sufficient research, advocacy, and treatment options. But as I started my journey with Anam Cara Clay Goods, something shifted—an opportunity arose that I had never envisioned but am now deeply grateful for: using my small business to bring awareness to endometriosis and support the cause that’s so close to my heart.

“An opportunity arose that I had never envisioned but am now deeply grateful for: using my small business to bring awareness to endometriosis and support the cause that’s so close to my heart.”

Through Anam Cara Clay Goods, I found a platform not only to express my creativity but also to make a meaningful impact on something that directly affects my life and the lives of so many others. Each month, I proudly donate a portion of the sales to the Endometriosis Foundation of America. This commitment to supporting endometriosis research, advocacy, and treatment is an opportunity I would have never imagined for myself had I not taken the leap into entrepreneurship.

My business has become a way to channel my personal struggles into something greater—something that can help raise awareness, provide much-needed funding for research, and ultimately create a brighter future for those living with endometriosis. It’s amazing how a passion born from change, creativity, and personal growth can evolve into a meaningful force for good. I often reflect on how I might not have had this opportunity to give back had I not pursued the dream of starting my own business.

I’ve come to realize that while living with endometriosis is a challenge, it’s also given me a sense of purpose and a deep desire to make a difference. Every time I create a new piece of jewelry, every portion of sales that goes towards the Endometriosis Foundation of America, I’m reminded that my journey is part of something bigger than myself. It’s about more than just building a business—it’s about advocating for better treatment options, more research, and ultimately, more understanding for people who are navigating this chronic condition.

Through Anam Cara Clay Goods, I’ve been able to transform my personal struggles into a catalyst for positive change, helping to shine a light on a condition that often goes unnoticed or misunderstood. It’s an empowering feeling to know that each purchase, each connection with my customers, and each piece of jewelry sold is contributing to a cause that is so close to my heart. And as my business grows, so does my ability to contribute to the ongoing fight for better care, awareness, and education surrounding endometriosis.

For me, Anam Cara Clay Goods is no longer just a business. It’s a way to make a difference, a way to give back to the community, and a way to use my story to inspire others who may be facing their own battles. It’s proof that from pain and struggle can come something beautiful—something transformative. I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity to create, connect, and advocate through my business, and I look forward to continuing to support the endometriosis community for years to come.

The Birth of Anam Cara Clay Goods

Through all of it—the career shift, the move away from the only home I’d ever known, the unexpected health challenges—I found myself yearning for something that could hold space for all the change I was navigating. I didn’t know exactly what I was looking for at first. I just knew I needed something that could ground me, something that felt like mine. Slowly, almost quietly, the idea that would eventually become Anam Cara Clay Goods began to take shape.

It didn’t happen overnight. There was no lightning bolt of inspiration, no perfectly timed revelation. Instead, it was a gentle unfolding—a growing awareness that I needed a creative outlet to nurture my soul, a way to express everything I had been carrying. I craved something that would allow me to connect more deeply with myself and with others, something beautiful and meaningful that could emerge from all the mess and transformation.

Polymer clay entered my life like a whisper, and then quickly became a lifeline. It offered a world of color, texture, and possibility that I hadn’t known I needed. What began as a simple, curious exploration became a full-blown passion. And from that passion, Anam Cara Clay Goods was born—not just as a business, but as a reflection of my journey. Each piece I create is a small tribute to resilience, to self-discovery, to the beauty of embracing change even when it feels uncomfortable.

Starting this business has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It has stretched me in ways I didn’t expect—pushing me to learn new skills, face my fears, and trust my instincts. But more than that, it’s helped me better understand who I am becoming. Through entrepreneurship, I’ve discovered courage I didn’t know I had, creativity I had only scratched the surface of, and a sense of purpose that feels deeply rooted in authenticity.

“Through entrepreneurship, I’ve discovered courage I didn’t know I had, creativity I had only scratched the surface of, and a sense of purpose that feels deeply rooted in authenticity.”

Anam Cara means “soul friend,” and that name wasn’t chosen lightly. This venture has become just that—a companion on my journey. A reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, something beautiful can grow. Something honest. Something whole.

Here are three key things I’ve learned about myself through this process:

I Am Resilient and Adaptable

When I first started this business, I had no idea how much resilience I would need. There have been countless moments where I felt overwhelmed, unsure, or defeated. Yet, time and time again, I’ve been reminded that I am capable of bouncing back. From the challenges of starting a new venture in the midst of personal struggles, to learning the ins and outs of running a business, I’ve discovered that I am more adaptable than I thought. I’ve learned to face uncertainty head-on, knowing that with every setback comes an opportunity to grow and learn. The ability to roll with the punches and keep moving forward has become one of my greatest strengths.

I Am More Creative Than I Realized

Before starting Anam Cara Clay Goods, I didn’t fully realize the depth of my creativity. Of course, I had creative ideas and passions, but it wasn’t until I started making polymer clay jewelry that I saw just how deeply creativity runs through me. The process of creating, experimenting with colors, textures, and shapes, and bringing new designs to life has shown me that creativity isn’t just a hobby or an outlet—it’s a core part of who I am. Through this journey, I’ve learned to embrace my creative side without fear of imperfection, and I’ve found joy in expressing myself through the art I create.

I Am Capable of Trusting Myself and My Vision

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is how to trust myself. There have been so many moments when doubt crept in, especially in the early stages of building my business. I questioned whether I was doing the right thing, whether I was capable of making this vision a reality. But as I’ve watched Anam Cara Clay Goods grow, I’ve come to realize that I am capable of making bold decisions and trusting my instincts. I’ve learned that I don’t need external validation to move forward—if I believe in my vision and stay true to myself, the path will unfold. Trusting myself has been a key part of this journey, and it’s something I continue to nurture every day.

Bonus Section

Looking back, it’s clear to me now that all of the upheaval—the career change, the move, the heartache, and uncertainty—was preparing me for something deeper. Anam Cara Clay Goods didn’t just give me a new direction; it gave me a way to live more fully, more intentionally, and more creatively. And along the way, I’ve learned a few powerful truths that I carry with me every day:

1. Change isn’t the enemy—it’s the invitation.

For most of my life, I resisted change. I clung to stability like a life raft, believing it was the only way to feel safe. But now I see that change, while uncomfortable, is often the very thing that moves us toward who we’re meant to become. Letting go of the familiar opened the door for something far more meaningful to emerge. I’ve learned that when we allow ourselves to evolve, we make space for beautiful things to grow—things we might never have imagined if we had stayed in place.

“I hope you remember this: change is the vehicle that drives growth, transformation, and a deeper connection to your true self.”

2. Creativity is more than a skill—it’s a way of healing.

Working with polymer clay has taught me that creativity isn’t just about making beautiful things—it’s about processing experience, honoring emotion, and finding joy in the act of creation itself. It’s how I’ve worked through grief, uncertainty, and self-doubt. It’s how I’ve found my voice again. Creativity became my way of rebuilding—not just a career, but a life that feels deeply connected to who I truly am.

3. Your story matters, even when it’s messy.

If there’s one thing I’ve come to believe with my whole heart, it’s that our stories—especially the parts that feel uncertain or broken—are what make us beautifully human. Anam Cara Clay Goods exists because I dared to follow a path that wasn’t fully mapped out. Every collection, every design I create is rooted in that belief: that our journeys, no matter how winding, are worth honoring. And that art, at its best, can help tell those stories in ways words sometimes can’t.

5 Things I’m Grateful For Through All This Change

Looking back on the past seven years, I can say with certainty that every change—no matter how daunting in the moment—has shaped me into the person I am today. There were seasons of doubt, fear, and heartbreak. Times when I questioned everything: my choices, my path, even my identity. But those moments of uncertainty were often followed by unexpected clarity, growth, and a deepening sense of self.

I had to learn to release my grip on control. To surrender to the unknown. To trust the process even when I couldn’t see where it was taking me. And while it hasn’t always been easy, what came from that surrender was something extraordinary.

Starting Anam Cara Clay Goods was the culmination of all those changes. It wasn’t something I planned for years in advance—it was something I stumbled into as I searched for a creative outlet to heal, connect, and express myself. What began as a quiet curiosity for working with polymer clay quickly grew into something more—a space to create art that reflects my story and invites others to reflect on theirs too.

So, whether you’re facing a big life transition or quietly wondering what’s next, I hope you remember this: change is the vehicle that drives growth, transformation, and a deeper connection to your true self. It may be uncomfortable, but it often sets you on a path more beautiful than anything you could have imagined. As I reflect on the transformation these last years have brought, I realize just how many gifts have come out of the hard parts.

Here are five things I’m most grateful for:

Self-Discovery and Personal Growth

Change has a way of peeling back the layers and asking us to take an honest look at who we really are. For me, it’s been a journey of learning to let go of who I thought I should be and embracing who I truly am. I’ve discovered new passions, clarified my values, and grown more confident in my own voice. I’ve learned to trust myself more deeply—to honor what feels right, even when it’s uncertain. And I’ve realized that growth often comes from discomfort. That’s something I carry with me now: the knowing that even in the messiest seasons, something beautiful is forming underneath it all.

A Creative Outlet and New Passion

Before starting Anam Cara Clay Goods, I never knew how much I needed a creative outlet. While I had always loved art and design, it wasn’t until I took the leap into making polymer clay jewelry that I truly discovered the therapeutic power of creativity. This business has allowed me to tap into my artistic side in a way I never had before. It’s been deeply fulfilling to bring my ideas to life, to experiment with colors, textures, and shapes, and to create pieces that resonate with others. Creating jewelry has become a profound expression of my personal journey. Each piece reflects not only my creativity but also the growth, struggles, and lessons I’ve learned along the way. What started as a hobby has evolved into a thriving business that connects me with incredible people, and that connection has added so much joy to my life.

“The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been meaningful…it’s brought me to a place where I’m doing what I love, living a life that feels more authentic to who I truly am.”

Anam Cara Clay Goods has allowed me to turn my experiences into something tangible. Each piece I create carries meaning. And the joy of connecting with others through my art—of seeing someone light up when they find a pair of earrings that feels like them—has been one of the most fulfilling surprises of all.

A Supportive Community

Leaving behind the comfort of my hometown was one of the hardest changes I’ve experienced. I worried I’d lose my sense of belonging. However, what I didn’t realize at the time was that life was going to bring new connections and communities into my life—ones that would be just as fulfilling and important. At Innisfree Village, I found an incredible community that has supported me in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. The relationships I’ve built here, and in other parts of my life, have reminded me that we are all connected. Even when things feel uncertain, there is always room for new connections and people who uplift you, believe in you, and help you through the tough times. I’ve learned that community isn’t defined by a specific location; it’s about the people who share your values and who help you grow.

A Healthier Relationship with Change

As someone who has always preferred stability and predictability, change used to feel like a threat. I saw it as something to fear, a force that would shake the foundation of my life. But through all the challenges I’ve faced, I’ve learned to develop a healthier relationship with change. While I still appreciate stability, I now see change as an opportunity for growth, not something to avoid. I’ve learned that life doesn’t always unfold according to plan, and that’s okay. I’ve come to understand that change often brings unexpected beauty, new opportunities, and valuable lessons. Instead of resisting change, I’ve learned to lean into it, trust the process, and allow life to unfold in its own way. It’s not always easy, but it’s made me a more flexible, resilient person.

Gratitude for the Journey

Perhaps the most important thing I’ve gained through all this change is a deep sense of gratitude for the journey itself. The struggles, the fears, the uncertainty—all of these have been part of a greater picture. Each experience, whether it was a setback or a success, has led me to where I am today. And I can honestly say that I am grateful for every single part of it. I’ve learned to appreciate the small moments, the lessons learned, and the strength I’ve gained along the way. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been meaningful. And most importantly, it’s brought me to a place where I’m doing what I love, living a life that feels more authentic to who I truly am. This is a life that aligns with my values, passions, and dreams. I wouldn’t change a thing about the road that led me here.

Embracing Change and Starting Your Own Business

If you’ve been dreaming of starting your own business but are afraid of the changes that will come with it, I want to share some insights and tips that helped me take the leap. Change can be daunting, no doubt about it. It often feels like you're stepping into the unknown, unsure of what's on the other side. But, as I’ve learned through my own journey, it’s in those moments of change where the magic of transformation happens. When I first entertained the idea of starting Anam Cara Clay Goods, it felt like a huge, scary mountain to climb. The uncertainty was overwhelming, and I questioned whether I had what it takes. It felt like everything was in flux. But through this process, I’ve discovered that change isn’t something to fear—it's an essential part of personal and professional growth. It’s how we evolve, learn, and ultimately create the life we want.

Here are some of the key insights that helped me embrace change and take the leap into starting my own business:

• Change is a Catalyst for Growth

  When you step into the unknown, you are forced to grow. You have no choice but to challenge yourself, expand your skills, and find new solutions to problems you’ve never faced before. Change pushes you beyond your comfort zone—and while that’s uncomfortable at first, it’s the only way to achieve growth. Through the process of change, you’ll discover strengths you didn’t know you had and capabilities you never imagined. It’s only by embracing change that you’ll be able to create the opportunities that were previously out of reach.

• Trust the Process, Even When It Feels Uncertain

  I can’t tell you how many times I felt like I was walking blindfolded, not knowing where to take the next step. But, over time, I learned that trusting the process is essential. Change isn’t always linear, and it’s rare for things to unfold the way we expect them to. That’s okay. As long as you keep moving forward—one step at a time—you will eventually get to where you’re meant to be. Trust that each small step is part of a bigger picture, and even if you don’t have all the answers now, they will come to you as you go along.

• Starting Small Makes Change Less Overwhelming

  The thought of completely reinventing my life and starting a new business was terrifying at first. The task seemed too big, and the risks felt huge. But what I’ve learned is that change doesn’t have to be dramatic. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Start small. When I began with Anam Cara Clay Goods, I didn’t dive in headfirst—I took small, intentional steps. I researched, learned new skills, and tested my ideas before committing fully. This helped me build confidence and gave me the space to ease into the changes at my own pace. Starting small also allowed me to adjust and refine my ideas as I went along.

• You Don’t Have to Do It Alone—Lean on Support

  Change can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of surrounding yourself with support. Whether it’s family, friends, mentors, or a community of like-minded individuals, having people in your corner can make all the difference. When I faced moments of doubt or fear, the support I received from those around me reminded me of my purpose and helped me push through. Don’t be afraid to reach out and seek guidance or encouragement from others. You’re not alone in your journey.

• Fear is Part of the Journey--Use It as Fuel

  Fear is a natural part of change. It’s not something to avoid—it’s something to acknowledge and work through. When I first began, I was terrified of failing, of being judged, and of making mistakes. But instead of letting fear paralyze me, I learned to use it as fuel. Fear is a sign that you’re stepping outside your comfort zone, and that’s where real growth happens. Embrace fear as part of the process and use it as motivation to push forward. The more you face it, the less power it has over you.

• The Uncertainty of Change Can Lead to Unexpected Opportunities

  When I took the leap to start my own business, I had no idea where it would lead or what I was really getting myself into. But what I’ve come to realize is that embracing change opens the door to unexpected opportunities—opportunities you may not have seen coming or planned for. I never anticipated that Anam Cara Clay Goods would become a platform to support causes I care deeply about, like advocating for endometriosis research. But by embracing change and diving into this new chapter, I found a greater purpose beyond my initial vision for the business. Change brought with it the chance to make a real difference in ways I hadn’t imagined.

• Be Kind to Yourself

  Starting a business—and navigating any type of change—can be overwhelming. There will be days when things don’t go as planned, when you question your decisions, or when the weight of it all feels too much to bear. And that’s okay. Change is hard, and it’s normal to have moments of doubt. But what’s important is that you don’t beat yourself up during these moments.

  Be kind to yourself. Recognize that you’re human, and the journey you’re on is full of ups and downs. Instead of criticizing yourself for not having everything figured out, give yourself grace. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. I’ve learned to take a step back when I need it, to give myself permission to pause, and to remember that perfection is not the goal—progress is.

Change may be daunting, but it’s also where the magic happens—the spark that ignites transformation and brings you closer to living the life you’ve always dreamed of. If you’ve been feeling hesitant or afraid of making a change, remember that you have the power to shape your future. Whether it’s starting your own business, making a career switch, or embracing something new in your personal life, trust the process, lean into the discomfort, and take small steps toward your goal. Change is not something to fear, but something to embrace. It’s the catalyst for growth, new possibilities, and a life that reflects who you are and what you’re capable of becoming.

Final Thoughts

“If you’re facing your own crossroads, and the fear of the unknown is holding you back, I want to remind you that you have the power to choose change.”

Starting Anam Cara Clay Goods has been one of the most transformative decisions I’ve made in my life, and it’s something I wouldn’t have done without embracing change. Leaving my old career behind wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. It opened the door for something that felt more aligned with my heart and soul—a way to channel my creativity and connect with others through art. The process of building my business has been filled with unknowns, and at times, it has been overwhelming, but each challenge has been a lesson in resilience and personal growth.

There’s a profound beauty in the discomfort that change often brings. It pushes you to question what’s important, to reimagine your goals, and to grow into a version of yourself that may have once seemed impossible. As I’ve navigated these transitions, I’ve come to see change as an opportunity—not something to avoid, but something to welcome.

If you’re facing your own crossroads, and the fear of the unknown is holding you back, I want to remind you that you have the power to choose change. You don’t have to have everything figured out from the start. The beauty of transformation is that it’s a process—it unfolds gradually, sometimes unexpectedly, and always in its own time. Embrace the fear that comes with change, because it’s a sign that you’re stepping out of your comfort zone and into a space where growth can happen.

You are capable of making the changes you need to create the life you want. Whether it’s starting your own business, changing careers, moving to a new city, or simply taking the next step toward a dream you’ve been putting off, the journey will always involve a certain degree of fear and uncertainty. But that’s exactly where the magic lies—within the unknown, in the leaps you take that will ultimately shape the life that is meant for you.

So, remember this: change is where your growth happens. Don’t shy away from it. Embrace it, trust the process, and allow it to guide you toward a life that reflects who you are and who you’re becoming. The journey might be challenging, but the rewards of stepping into the unknown will be worth every step along the way.