Hello Lisa.

Welcome back to another edition of THE PENCIL CASE! 

Each issue explores a fresh theme to spark new ways of thinking about garden design and graphics.

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This week, we’re talking about CONFIDENCE.

What it is, why it often feels just out of reach, and how to start designing even when you don’t feel ready. Because the truth is: confidence doesn’t come before the work...it comes because of the work.

Confidence is the willingness to try, even when you’re not sure how it will go. - Mel Robbins

THE CONFIDENCE GAP

In our design membership, I often hear: “I want to start designing, but I’m not sure I’m ready yet.”

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And I get it…stepping into something new and creative can stir up all kinds of self-doubt. But what if confidence isn’t something you wait for? What if it’s something you build...one sketch, one step, one brave little act at a time?

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This week’s blog post is a gentle nudge forward for anyone feeling stuck in the space between wanting to design and feeling ready to do it. Read the full post for small steps, mindset shifts, and a reminder that confidence comes because of the work...not before it. Let’s close the gap together.

>>Read more here and take your next step even if it's a little wobbly: THE CONFIDENCE GAP

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What’s one small step you’ve taken recently, even when you didn’t feel ready? Please share by hitting reply to this email.

RESOURCES + RABBIT HOLES

Below is a couple of helpful links...just in case you’re ready to tumble a little further down the path.

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Stop Doubting Yourself: 5 Tips to Boost Your Confidence. In this episode, Mel Robbins provides a step-by-step confidence playbook, emphasizing that confidence isn't innate but a skill that can be developed over time. 

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Garden Design Collective. Join our supportive community where new designers learn to build confidence by doing. Click here to join our fall waiting list.

CLIPPINGS + CURIOSITIES

Not everything relates to the topic at hand, so below are a couple of random thoughts...from my sketchbook, the garden, or the day. Let's shake it up.

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Design-Related, but Barely: The idea that tiny, consistent changes...what James Clear calls “atomic habits”...can lead to massive growth over time. It’s so encouraging to realize confidence isn’t about huge leaps, but small, daily actions. Oh, and the book above is an affiliate link!

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Currently Obsessed With: Pablo Ferrández’s Moonlight Variations. The deep, soulful cello melodies help me settle into a focused, calm space...perfect for sketching and dreaming up garden designs...while working towards more confidence.♥︎

 Did you get a chance to read more about THE CONFIDENCE GAP?

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If you know someone that needs a bit of garden inspiration, please feel free to share this newsletter. Anyone can subscribe right here. I also keep a VAULT of past issues in this secret location.

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Wishing you quiet courage and many steps forward.

From the studio + garden,

Lisa 

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PAPER GARDEN WORKSHOP

Thank you to Mandy Orgler for designing the lovely graphics in all these newsletters.