With regards to design, what is it that makes you tick? Are you drawn to certain styles of homes? Do you find yourself loving certain colors and really not liking others? I know that’s certainly true for me, but I continually try to challenge myself so that I don’t fall into a rut. For example, when I see something that at a first glance I don’t like, I consciously take a step back and make myself analyze it to find out what turns me off. Then I challenge myself to be open to this idea, if only just a little bit. Those actions encourage me to take unexpected risks and to be more open minded. After all, I love believing I’m a trendsetter—whether that’s true or not! (By the way, this is my “trendsetting vehicle” that I plan on having some day. But it has to have air conditioning since I live in Texas!)

Perhaps you find yourself in a stage right now where you want to be open to different colors, styles, and ideas concerning your decor. Your family and friends might be holding you back, especially if you’ve always taken the “safe route.” They know your past and what you’ve always been comfortable with concerning your decor, so there are expectations coming from them. They expect you to make certain conservative decisions, and when you don’t, they sometimes voice their opinions, disbelief, or disapproval. This might make you question your own ideas which often leads you right back to where you started. But what if you decided to stand firm with what you want, regardless of the opinions/approval of others? All of us are drawn to certain things in decor and perhaps you want a change. Maybe you have always used bold colors and you want to go neutral. Or, you have always liked the Spanish look but now want to go modern. Change can be good, and every now and then we all need change to keep our decor fresh.

So, what can you do when you face these expectations from others?
First, trust your instincts and go with your gut. If you still feel nervous, get help from a licensed interior decorator that you trust to help guide you. I’ve helped many clients decide on fabric and style of furniture to fit their dreams, and most of the time, I’m just nudging them to take those bold steps forward.
Second, know that facing your fears is a good thing for you. Whether that fear is one that derives from disappointing others, being overly concerned with what others think, or making a big mistake…face those fears head on and ask yourself, What is the worst thing that can happen?  Consider all the outcomes. So what if you end up hating the wall you painted purple…you just paint over it. That’s better than never painting because you were afraid of making a mistake. Some things we only learn by trial and error, and it’s really no big deal in the whole scheme of things.
So beyond decor, in what ways does this apply to how we live our lives? Right now I’m reading a book, The Art of Nonconformity by Chris Guillebeau about how to live the sort of life you really want to live…I don’t know about you, but I want to live an interesting life filled adventure and personal growth. I want to feel challenged and satisfied with what I do for work and play—and I want my home to reflect that, too. I’m learning how to get there and I’m taking steps towards living the sort of life I really want…it’s a process, isn’t it?
So, if you are feeling the need for change and need a nudge of encouragement to go in that direction…here it is. Trust yourself, face those fears, and move forward with confidence. I’ll write more in the coming weeks and months about ways to set goals for yourself, but until then, know that I’m in the same boat with you and I’m cheering you on!