
This time of year always stirs a desire within me to grow and evolve. As a mental health therapist, witnessing the current state of the world leaves me feeling a sense of urgency. I can't simply sit back and watch; I need to take action. But what does that action look like? For me, lasting change comes from cultivating consistent daily habits rather than grand, sweeping efforts. Small, consistent steps are easier to maintain in the long run.
Reflecting on personal growth, I see it as a journey of self-improvement, increased awareness, skill development, and ultimately, becoming the best version of myself. Throughout my life, I've experienced firsthand the profound benefits of personal growth. It has increased my happiness and fulfillment, strengthened my relationships, and enhanced my resilience in the face of challenges.
But what do we do with all this growth? How do we leverage our experiences, both triumphs and setbacks, to move forward?
What Sparks Personal Growth?
For me, personal growth manifests in several ways:

Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone
Stepping outside my comfort zone has been a key driver of my professional growth. The scent of dark rose bud and vanilla ignites that ambition within me, reminding me of the drive needed to achieve my career goals. It's a powerful reminder to embrace new challenges and pursue my passions with confidence. I've embraced new hobbies, like Pilates and roller skating, and even rekindled my love for the Spanish language. These experiences, while sometimes daunting, have been incredibly rewarding.

Cultivating Self-Awareness
As a licensed therapist, I understand the importance of continuous self-reflection and how cultivating self-awareness is an ongoing journey. Even I need to practice what I preach! I actively check in with myself, especially during times of stress or overwhelm, to understand the root causes of my emotions. The scent of patchouli creates a truly calming atmosphere that encourages introspection. Lighting this amber patchouli citrus candle during my evening routine helps me slow down, tune into my inner thoughts, and reflect on my day. It's a ritual that helps me connect with myself and cultivate a deeper sense of inner peace.

Embracing a Growth Mindset
Viewing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth has been crucial for my own personal evolution. I've applied this mindset to my professional development as a licensed therapist and even to learning a new language – Spanish. The scent of wildflowers perfectly embodies this spirit of growth. Its uplifting and inspiring aroma symbolizes the journey of personal growth. Just as a wildflower blooms and thrives in diverse conditions, we too can nurture our own growth and resilience. This wildflower rosemary floral candle serves as a constant reminder of our inherent capacity for growth and transformation.
This year, I'm making a conscious effort to share my journey of personal growth more openly. I hope this blog can serve as a safe space for reflection and inspiration.

A New Chapter for The Calm Joy Candle Co.
As part of this commitment to personal growth and well-being, we’re embarking on a new chapter. We'll be donating 1% of our monthly profits to organizations that support women's mental and maternal health. I believe that by prioritizing our own well-being, we can better care for ourselves and our families. That's why we’re committing to a mission of supporting women's mental and maternal health. We believe that every woman deserves access to the resources and support she needs to thrive.
My personal journey of personal growth has been intertwined with my commitment to supporting women's mental and maternal health. I believe that by prioritizing our own well-being, we can better care for ourselves and our families. I encourage you to join us on this journey. Purchase a handmade artisanal candle for yourself or a loved one, knowing that your purchase directly supports these important causes.
Thank you for being a part of our community.
Until next time,
xx Simone