No matter who you are or what you do, life has a way of challenging you. It’s never easy, but the way we react to things not working out the way you’d like often is the catalyst for personal growth. 

Today’s guest on The Holly Hughes Podcast makes midlife look like a dream. In her forties, Wendy Valentine found herself battling debt, divorce, unemployment, the passing of family, chronic illness and of course depression. From that low point, Wendy began a journey of rediscovery and transformation. Today, Wendy is a successful life coach, podcaster, and author.

Wendy Valentine joins Holly Hughes for a discussion about creativity, personal growth, and the challenges of mental health. They discuss the importance of self-care, the impact of loss on creativity, and the need to embrace imperfection. Finally, Wendy talks about the significance of detaching from external validation and the freedom that comes with pursuing one's passions.

Visit Wendy online at wendyvalentine.com. Buy a copy of Wendy's book, "Women Waking Up", here.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Launch

02:45 Creative Journeys and Personal Growth

05:52 Facing Depression and Anxiety

11:43 The Journey of Change and Self-Discovery

13:57 Evaluating Life: The Wheel of Midlife

16:03 Stepping into Your Light

19:02 The Power of Words and Creativity

21:17 Finding Your Voice as a Writer

25:16 Navigating Emotional Highs and Lows

32:49 Navigating Public Perception and Personal Detachment

35:11 Embracing Life's Impermanence and the Beauty of Existence

36:53 Redefining Success and Failure in Creative Pursuits

39:27 Finding Your Creative Rhythm and Process

41:56 Overcoming Creative Overwhelm and Embracing Change

44:58 The Importance of Connection and Authentic Expression

48:59 Embracing Your Unique Creative Journey

51:29 The Future of Creativity and Personal Growth