How I became the ‘Curious Creative’

Throughout my career, I defined myself by the success of others. I earned my living helping people and organizations tell their stories, define their brands, and promote themselves. Yet, when it came time to “brand” myself, I struggled to think of a word or a phrase that defines the real “ME.” The “ME” I’ve become.

It has taken me a long time to feel comfortable enough in my skin to know what I want to do with the rest of my life. While I can finally answer the “What,” I’ve struggled to define the “Who.”

Twenty years ago, I defined myself by my career. I was a journalist — simple as that. As soon as I had kids, I became a mother and a journalist. With each new job and experience, I added a new skill to my identity. Before I knew it, I was a mother, a communications professional, a writer, and in the past five years, an educator as well. While the hats I’ve worn added skills to my resume, they also masked my real self.

Over the past two decades, I’ve had two blogs: The Ridiculous & Riveting and Work, Parent, Teach. They’ve both served their purpose, but I always felt bound to write for the brand — a habit I developed while working in PR. After many cups of coffee (and dark chocolate), discarded drafts, mind maps, and outlines, I chose “The Curious Creative.” The “Curious Creative” sheds the brand and gives me a platform to stretch my creativity and write about the things that intrigue me. For instance:

I am intrigued by languages, customs, and the stories of those working to preserve their ancestors’ legacies.

I am intrigued by people’s resilience and determination to survive and thrive against all odds.

I am intrigued by the world closer to home — by what my kids are learning at school, their interactions with their peers, their interests, and the challenges they face daily.

I am intrigued by the lessons that spark my students’ interests and their desire to learn about various cultures.

I am intrigued by all the idiosyncrasies of social media and how it influences our behavior and interactions.

The real me is an immigrant, a lifelong learner, and a person driven by an insatiable curiosity and a passion for all things culture. Beyond my doorstep is a world ready to be discovered., but since I can’t hop on a plane anytime I feel like it, I write about the people, places, and things I find exciting and intriguing. Because, in my opinion, curiosity drives awareness; awareness amplifies knowledge; and knowledge reduces misinformation and biases.

I hope you take some time to explore this blog and join the conversation by subscribing to my newsletter for the latests posts and updates.