Finding your unique path: Creativity, Third Space, and trusting your inner voice

The other day, I had the pleasure of working with a coaching client who wears many hats: artist, writer, graphic designer, workshop leader, and creativity coach. She’s one of those people who can do it all and somehow make it look seamless. Her current goal? Getting more of her art into local galleries. We started by refining her artist statement and vita.

As we worked, I noticed she kept referencing how “professional artists” approach the process—how their websites look, what materials they use. It was clear she felt a need to “fit in.” Finally, I said, “You know, Mary” (not her real name), “it’s not going to work for you to try to fit into some standard model. You’re a complex, multi-talented person, and what you’re bringing to the world is unique. Instead of focusing on how others do it, what feels like the most energizing step for you to take next?”

In that moment, I pictured Mary as a pioneer, cutting her own path with a scythe through a golden wheat field. She’s forging her own way, and listening to her inner voice is her only option—because her journey isn’t supposed to look like anyone else’s. That’s her strength.

The Third Space: Bridging Polarities and Tapping Inner Wisdom

This moment with Mary reminded me of a concept I explore in my book, Getting Messy. I call it Third Space—a place where polarities are bridged, and we connect with our inner wisdom. For Mary, the polarity was clear: on one side, her idea of what her work “should” look like to be accepted; on the other, her inner voice resisting that conventional path.

Third Space, in her case, was the realization that she’s offering something complex and one-of-a-kind. By trusting her own voice, she’ll find the next right step for her creative journey.

Why I Changed My Blog Banner

This idea of Third Space also ties into a personal decision I recently made. My blog began as Aesthetic Space, a place inspired by the intersection of creativity and deeper knowing. But when a marketing expert suggested I rebrand it as Getting Messy to align with my upcoming book, I gave it a try.

Here’s the thing: I love my book, and it represents everything I’ve wanted to say about creativity, learning, and the teaching process. It’s deeply tied to over a decade of research, starting with my Ph.D. dissertation at the University of Chicago on adult learning in everyday life.

But the blog? That’s my Third Space—a place where I can explore, experiment, and grow. Like Mary, I am the thread that ties together all my interests. Aesthetic Space is where my creativity can breathe, and I’m excited to see where it leads.

Working with Me

Inspired by the ideas in my book, Getting Messy: A Guide to Taking Risks and Opening the Imagination, I’m now offering individual coaching sessions. If you’re a teacher, trainer, consultant, coach, or mentor and want to explore the higher vision for your work, send me an email. Connecting with your Third Space (or imaginal space, as I sometimes call it) is a powerful source of renewal and inspiration, especially when challenges arise.

I’m also thrilled to announce that I’ll be teaching at the Esalen Institute next March. Check out my Events page for all the details.

Cheers to finding your own unique path!