How are you? It’s been a while since we last connected and a lot has happened for me, as I’m sure it has for you too!  

The biggest news is that I fulfilled a decades long dream to travel to India. Thanks to an amazing benefit through my job, I had a 3-month sabbatical from work, and spent one of those months traveling through India. It was just as vibrant, gorgeous, and delicious as I imagined and the journey shaped and moved me in many ways. You can read and see all about it in a blog I created especially for this journey: https://sashindia2023.wordpress.com  

The time off of work was precious in so many ways. Most of all was re-discovering who I am without the constant stress and pressure of my job. I know what a crazy privilege it is to have that kind of time and space, and I’m still somewhat baffled that it happened. 

During my time off, I spent a lot of time drawing, which gives me a deep sense of joy and fulfillment. It feels so incredibly good to have reconnected and recommitted to this creative passion.   

Naturally, now that I’m back at work full time, I don’t have the same kind of freedom to create as often as I might like. Finding space for art is a challenge I’m up for because I don’t ever want to feel its absence again. Yet at the end of a long day, I’m just as tired as the next person. The struggle is real!

I’m sharing my artistic journey on my YouTube channel, because I think wanting time for creativity is something many people can relate to. I also really enjoy making these videos, and it’s the kind of content I like to consume. I would love for you to join me there! You can see my first official art vlog right here (click “Watch on YouTube” to like and subscribe):

Needless to say, it’s been an eventful start to the year with no signs of slowing down. Next week I’m headed to Costa Rica for a meetup with my work team, and then Greece in June to meet with my other work team. What a blessed life!

I’m curious, if you had three months of paid leave from work, how would you spend your time? Reply in the comments and let me know.  

I look forward to hearing from you. Take good care,

Sasha

P.S. You might be wondering if I’m still coaching and the answer is yes! I’m always coaching and if it’s something you’d like to explore, reach out and let me know.