What are you creating?

“When we move towards our own creativity, we move towards our creator" - Julia Cameron

In 1994 I began the active journey to search for a process, a method or framework to learn to journal my thoughts. I did not realize that at the time, the journey of journaling and connecting to the Creator would lead me to create something new. Nor did I realize the journey of 1000 days of journaling started with one day, then another, then another (see a picture of my journal books below).

Rumi Scholar and poet, Jalal Al Din, said "What you seek is seeking you." Julia Cameron's book, The Artist's Way, was seeking me as I was seeking a process to learn how to journal.

The book showed up in my life in one week three times on three different days. On the fourth day, my friend Beatrice Louissaint President and CEO of Florida State Minority Supplier Development Council, called me from the bookstore and said: "Hi, Ann, I'm here at Barnes and Nobles. I know you love to read. What are two books you want? I will bring them by."

I told her The Artist's Way and The 4-Hour Work Week. Within the hour she brought the books to my home. That night I began to read The Artist's Way.

The following morning I began to practice using Cameron's bedrock tools, which consist of a daily practice called "morning pages" – three pages of long hand, stream-of-conscious writing done first thing in the morning.

Hundreds of books and journals later, Cameron's process led me to developing my own, which helps my clients get greater clarity in ten areas of their lives.

This process has helped thousands of individuals, starting with making time as an early riser for a daily date with yourself method. Creativity isn’t just about art. It’s about thinking differently, solving problems, and bringing fresh perspectives to every aspect of your life.

Whether you are looking to innovate in your career, enrich your personal relationships, or simply explore new hobbies, creativity is the key to unlocking endless possibilities.

All of us have specific skills, but those who apply creativity to their skills allow for the development of strategic approaches that distinguishes them from others with similar skills.

For example, as a contractor, I used my creativity to create MCO Consulting, Inc. , a consulting company, to give greater value to my clients as a consultant providing outreach, monitoring, and compliance. Over the years I continued to see the need to tap into my creativity to serve, support, and elevate women in the construction industry.

Eventually I created the The National Association of Black Women In Construction (NABWIC).

In addition, as I was continously asked to share my insights, challenges and success, I created my speaking and coaching company called Constructively Speaking, Inc. (CSI). All these entities started as an idea to solve a problem.

But how did I do this?

I start my day by journaling top of mind ideas, communing with the spirit, and sitting for ideas. This process is called the McNeill Factor Daily Date with Myself.

All of these ideas were journaled day after day, month after month, year after year.

Creativity enables you to stand out, leveraging your unique perspectives and talents in a way that sheds light on your originality. This could be through personal projects, hobbies, or contributions to your community that reflect your innovative thinking.

When you embrace the art of being creative, it enriches all aspects of life, from personal growth to professional success. My advice to you: Foster curiosity. Practice mindfulness. Engage in activities that you never would have gravitated to. Allow yourself to take risks and make mistakes.

Book of the Month

The most important person in your life is you.

There is nothing more important than your improvement, fulfillment, and self-development. How do you keep track of your path to your best self?

My book, A Date With Myself Daily Journal, takes self-care to a new level as you reflect at the end of each day to record your opportunities, your lessons learned, what you’re thankful for and the desires of your heart.

Socrates said that the unexamined life is not worth living. By contrast, the examined life is how we truly live and master living more abundantly! This journal is designed to be a premium tool for self-examination and life optimization.

You, of all people, deserve that!

Order it here.

Life and Legacy Mastermind Retreat (14-16 November 2024)

Have you ever wondered why some entrepreneurs effortlessly achieve work-life balance and build a lasting legacy, while you find yourself struggling to do the same?

The answer lies in the intentional design of their lives and businesses. Successful entrepreneurs align their personal and professional goals, mastering time management, and focusing on long-term impact rather than short-term gains.

They invest in personal development, surround themselves with like-minded individuals, and continuously seek out opportunities for growth.

But these things are always easier said than done.

The Life and Legacy Mastermind Retreat comprises three transformative days, in which you’ll gain insights from seasoned entrepreneurs, engage in deep, reflective work, and create a personalized action plan that aligns your business with your life’s mission.

Take the first step toward leading a more intentional, effective life.

Find out more here.