Had a rough year? You're not alone. In this episode, Kat vulnerably shares her journey through a tough season. Learn how to overcome setbacks and emerge stronger on the other side!   What's Inside:   Navigating Tough Times: Ekaterina delves into her personal struggle with difficult periods in life and business, illustrating the cyclical nature of our experiences. Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity: She emphasizes the importance of being genuine and open about the highs and lows we all face. Confronting Personal and Professional Challenges: From family conflicts to career hurdles like a near-canceled solo show, Ekaterina discusses how she navigated through adversity. Prioritizing Self-Care and Emotional Processing: She underscores the necessity of taking time to heal and process emotions after life's challenges. Shifting Focus and Embracing Rest: Learn about Ekaterina's decision to step back from exhibitions and find solace in painting at a relaxed pace. Setting Boundaries for Personal Wellbeing: Discover the importance of saying no to certain opportunities for the sake of mental health. Finding Joy in Simplicity: Ekaterina shares how engaging in simple pleasures, like painting everyday objects and spending time with her pet, brought joy. Seeking New Experiences to Grow: Hear about her solo adventures and new hobbies that helped push her boundaries and foster personal growth. Gleaning Lessons from Hardships: Reflect on quiet times in business and the value of staying calm and attuned to your inner voice during uncertainty. Building Strength through Community and Hobbies: The importance of a supportive network and engaging in activities that bring joy outside of work is highlighted. Committing to Sobriety and Mindfulness: Ekaterina talks about choosing sobriety to confront her emotions directly during challenging times. Understanding the Seasonality of Life and Business: She uses the metaphor of seasons to describe the fluctuating nature of life and business, encouraging listeners to embrace each phase. Offering Hope and Encouragement: The episode concludes with uplifting words and a belief in the power of resilience and growth. Invitation to the Artist Navigation Course: Ekaterina extends an invitation to her course, designed to aid artists in navigating their careers, especially through tough periods.https://artistnavigation.com/   Join us for an episode filled with raw insights, practical advice, and heartfelt encouragement. https://artistnavigation.com/