In a recent post, I proclaimed that you should make it your mission in life to do what you love. That’s easy enough to say but the big question is, how do you make it happen?

Because social media has become so polished over the last few years, from the outside, it can seem like everyone else has already achieved the so-called dream life that you aspire to. It’s not quite that simple though. Beneath the facade, we all struggle. It’s just that for varying reasons (some personal, some professional), not everyone chooses to share those struggles publicly. And since you often ‘meet’ people online who are already at the height of their careers (you didn’t discover them five years ago, when they started with five readers), you don’t see how they got from point A to point B. When you can’t clearly see the path they’ve taken, it all seems like a big ol’ brew of black magic.

Today, I’m here to help you think about what you really want, to make a plan and most importantly, to follow through with that plan.

Define exactly what you want, even if it feels unattainable.

If you don’t acknowledge what you want out of life, you’ll coast along, settling for what’s familiar and comfortable. How can you work towards your ideal life if you don’t even know what that resembles?

I’ve always been a dedicated list maker. When I was in my early 20s, living at my dad’s house in the suburbs, working a retail job selling shoes and in school full-time for business (completely not the path I wanted to be on!), I made lists. Lots of them. I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do but I knew that I had to make small changes in order to move forward and unlock the puzzle. I did know that I loved advertising (I’d discovered a George Lois book in my high school library that was life changing) so I minored in Marketing. That was a start. I knew that I’d make more connections if I lived in Portland so I worked as many hours as I could, built a savings and moved into the city. I knew that having my own business was important to me so I blogged regularly to build an early platform for what would later become Nubbytwiglet.com.

All of these small changes were pieces of a much bigger puzzle and collectively, they started to shift my life. The picture became much more clear each day, each week, each month and so on. Based on achieving small, concrete results, I was then able to set new, more focused goals. At 24, after many list-filled notebooks, I finally knew what I wanted to do. Because I was equally drawn to marketing and design, working at ad agencies seemed like the perfect dream career. The idea excited me and I set out to find a way to make it happen.

Once I’d finished my business degree, I took a year off to regroup, started reading piles of design books and finally enrolled in a graphic design program. I secured an internship during my first year and set a new goal of working full time at an agency by age 27. It happened. That became a stepping stone for freelancing at another five agencies and each stop on that path was hugely beneficial (while being filled with very steep learning curves). As I worked at more agencies, design felt increasingly closer to my heart and became my true passion (as cheesy as that sounds).

After taking on nearly every job I possibly could in the first four years of being a designer to build a diversified portfolio, I’ve started to refine my business plan and figure out the next steps that I’d like to take professionally. It’s time for me to step back, reevaluate and refine my goals even further. It’s time to make a new list.

Why am I painstakingly detailing this part of my life for you? Because I want you to see that there’s a process for getting what you want out of life. Everyone has a beginning but it’s up to you to decide what the middle and end of your story will look like. Getting what you want doesn’t just happen magically.

Goals are like a map, outlining the path of your life with clear markers.

Goals give you momentum and a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Unlike dreams, goals are concrete measurements that signal that you’re on the right track while opening doors to new experiences and opportunities.

Accept where you are, right at this moment.

Be realistic about where you are, right now. This can be a hard pill to swallow if you’re really far from your goals. Remember that accepting your current spot doesn’t mean that you have to be content. It just means that you’re being realistic so you can make an honest plan outlining how to move forward.

The one thing that’s constant is change.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure of your path, remember that everyone’s been in your shoes. Feeling uneasy is actually a good sign because it means that you’re aware and not willing to settle for where you’re currently at. Instead, you’re searching for a new opportunity, a new path, a sign that something needs to shift.

Once your goals begin to transpire, find ways to help others.

Enjoy your successes as they come but stay grounded and aware. Nobody likes dealing with a self-absorbed asshole. The best way to stay grounded is to find ways to give back. Donate your time and talents whenever possible. Even better, become a mentor. What you choose to give back doesn’t have to be monumental; do what you can do, when you can. The best gift you can give is to help someone else achieve their goals.

Live a life that you love.

Reworking your life is overwhelming and scary; it’s okay to start really small. Set regular check-in points along the way so that you know you’re on track. If you’re feeling stuck, the best way to overcome a mental block is to get it out into the open; talk it out or write it out. And finally, the challenges we face along the way only make us stronger. Never, ever give up and never, ever sell yourself short. You only live your life once so really, truly make the most of it. There’s no time for regrets. Do what you love in 2012.

I spent the first day of 2012 freshening up and organizing my surroundings. I stocked up on new cleaning supplies, shredded a stack of junk mail, vacuumed my office, pulled all the receipts out of my wallet, recycled a massive stack of print-outs that were collecting dust in my flat files, cleaned out my closets and flipped through and recycled a stack of old magazines.

I also spent some time changing up my beauty routine. I was on vacation all week in Phoenix and took some time to get my hair trimmed and picked up some new makeup at the MAC counter. I loathe foundation (and hadn’t worn it in about 5 years) but remembered how well my skin photographed last year after a MAC makeover so I picked up Studio Sculpt and Skinfinish powder. Then, I painted my nails nude for the first time ever with Face Stockholm Unclear and applied one of my favorite eyeshadow combos, Double Feature 1 by MAC. Finally, I used a new (to me) scent: Chanel N° 5.

A clean, organized environment, a beauty routine change-up and some time to think. Not a bad way to spend the first day of the new year.

I snapped this photo a few days ago and wanted to share this simple thought. Warhol was definitely onto something when he proclaimed, “I think everybody should like everybody.” We live in a complicated world but a little kindness can go a long way in 2012. I’ll be back later in the week with my yearly recap!

Last week, I found these simple yet powerful screen prints by coniLab on Etsy and thought they’d be a perfect reminder to hang in my office, just in time for the new year.

With so many blogs peeking into other people’s (seemingly perfect) lives constantly surrounding us, it’s easy to lose track of our own in the shuffle. Some people are born knowing what their path in life should be but for the rest of us, it isn’t that easy. Sometimes it takes more than a just dream — a mentor, a specialized education, money, a plan. When you do finally find the right path, everything else begins to unfold as it should. I took a few chances this year — the kind where you feel your stomach drop for a second and wonder, “What have I just done?” Those are the chances that make you feel alive though. I just kept repeatedly telling myself, “When you put yourself out there, great things usually happen” and I feel like I’m wrapping up the most fulfilling year yet (trust me, it wasn’t easy). If you’re unhappy or unfulfilled, It’s up to you to make that shift. Embrace what makes you unique instead of erasing it in the process. Put your best foot forward, let the entire world know what you want to do with your life and then conspire to make it happen. 2012 is right around the corner and it’s never too late to do what you love and love what you do.

I’m going to keep this post short and sweet; I just discovered Pantone wallpapers from their Plus Series and wanted to share them with you. Enjoy!

For the last few years, I’ve relied heavily on Moleskine planners to keep me organized. Let’s face it — staying on track can be especially difficult when you’re forgetting half of what needs to get done. Every day, I make a to-do list and cross it out as I go. If something doesn’t get finished, it gets carried over until I complete it. This method is super basic but I find that it keeps me accountable. Having a hard copy of my list to carry around makes it much more real compared to an online list that I can turn off and forget about. I know that there are fancier planner solutions out there but having everything compiled in one list in one place is foolproof. My Moleskine planners have been a security blanket of sorts since I was in college and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

What’s your preferred method for keeping track of daily tasks? Any tips or tricks that you’d like to share?

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been working on a number of projects that feature heavy doses of black and white (surprise, surprise!) and that influence is definitely pouring over into my personal inspiration.

1. I am a huge Warhol fan so I have no idea how this 1953 Marilyn Monroe publicity photo featuring his crop marks escaped me all these years! (Photo: Gene Korman).
2. I love layering big, textured coats over something very simple like a white t-shirt. This will surely be one of my go-to Fall looks (Image: source unknown).
3. Adoring the use of negative space in this photo by Jeremy James.
4. Balenciaga F/W 2011-12 is off the hook and their new site is fantastic.
5. I’m on a big type-based inspirational poster kick. Does anyone know who made this one?
6. This Work In Progress cover has been inspiring me for years with its smooth flow and pattern play.
7. The trio of stylishly patterned women in this Kate Spade photo makes me super excited for Fall.
8. In the future, everyone will be world famous for fifteen minutes. (Image: source unknown).
9. Exaggerated winged eyeliner, forever and always. (Image: source unknown)
10. How great is this publicity shot from Monty Python? Sometimes, simple is best!

Dear readers, what’s been inspiring you as of late in fashion, design and life?

I’m always curious about what everyone else is inspired by because that inspiration tends to seep into whatever we’re doing, whether it’s writing, design or altering our living spaces. Here’s what’s currently inspiring me in a major way!

INSPIRATION BOARD 01

1. Bambi Northwood-Blyth for MUSE by Tim Barber. This entire shoot reminds me of long summer days. 2. Kelly Jill’s photography. 3. Anything from Margiela in lemon yellow! I already have these shoes and they’re like a big exclamation point to finish off any outfit. 4. Nothing says summer like this beautiful portrait of Elisa Sednaoui for Bazaar Spain. 5. I’ve wanted a clever bookend like this forever. 6. The hand-illustrated chalk drawings by Dana Tanamachi totally blow my mind.

INSPIRATION BOARD 02

1. Sometimes we need a little reminder to stay true to who we are. 2. I fell for this Asos dress that Gala showed me but it sold out before I could snap it up! 3. I love the rustic charm and hefty type on this grain sack pillow cover. 4. Open interior spaces. 5. The Prada Fall 2011 campaign is the epitome of otherworldly 60s. 6. I want Emma Stone’s entire mod wardrobe in the July 2011 issue of Elle. 7. I’ve always loved this Anthony Burrill poster.

INSPIRATION BOARD 03

1. Tsovet watches. I’m not big on recognizable status watches, instead preferring something that is a bit more unique and under the radar. 2. Luxe accessories with major edge like this bag from Versace Fall 2011. 3. I never get tired of a structured, all-black wardrobe! 4. The work of photographer Ditte Isager is the epitome of understated cool. 5. Loving The Landing identity by Jamie Stolarski. 6. The August 2011 German Vogue cover featuring Claudia Schiffer is gorgeous.

INSPIRATION BOARD 04

Well, this really isn’t an inspiration board but can I take a minute to profess my love of Kate Spade’s current site incarnation?! Graphic gorgeousness in black and white and classic with a dose of pop. The brand’s use of type and patterns is always spot-on.

Dear readers, what’s inspiring you at the moment?

What are you meant to do?

What’s holding you back from making your dreams a reality? There’s one thing that I know for sure: If you continually make excuses, there’s always going to be something that’s holding you back because life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans. Nothing is ever going to be perfect. The best way to learn is to take chances, challenge yourself (and to learn from your mistakes).

I’ve been thinking a lot about what I want the next steps for my business to be. Looking back, I’m glad that I didn’t wait to get started. I began developing the beginnings of my brand back in high school — my alias back then was slightly different but the color schemes and message had started to take shape. If I’d had more access to the internet and known other designers back in the late 90s, it probably would have moved along much faster and I probably wouldn’t have second-guessed myself so much. Kids these days have a much more defined view of the world! I began taking the idea of running my own business more seriously when I presented Nubbytwiglet.com as my senior project in college. I made a mini business plan, included mock-ups of products I wanted to develop and mood boards of graphics I wanted to create (I actually found this while cleaning out my office the other night!)

How do you get started on your desired path?

This is tricky because everyone defines success differently and there’s no surefire formula to hit your goals. It’s important to make learning your mission. Buy books and read blogs on your chosen subject. Find a mentor and make contact with like-minded folks. Apply to as many internships as possible and most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Most professionals were in your position once and will hopefully be flattered that you’re seeking their advice. I’m lucky that so many people were willing to give me a chance early on and offer guidance.

One of the most common mistakes people make when they consider branching out on their own is telling themselves that there’s just too much competition. They convince themselves that the market is too flooded with their specific talent. If you embrace this mentality, you’ll always feel stuck. One of the points I make to students when I give my Freelance 101 presentation is to embrace what makes you unique; you should never be afraid to show your true self. The design world is becoming increasingly competitive and though there’s always going to be someone that’s more skilled than you, it’s important to increase your value by adding your own unique spin. For example, when I first launched this blog in 2007, I was afraid that sharing my outfit posts and content that was not directly related to design would mean that I’d be taken less seriously as a designer. But what I soon realized though is that by leaving these elements out, I was hiding a huge part of who I was. Because I opened up and shared my interest in fashion, I was able to gain many clients that wanted a more style-driven look including Forever 21 and Nike.

I’m noticing that interns these days are having to work harder than ever. A weak economy and a flood of fresh graduates shouldn’t be a deterrent though. When I applied for my first internship, it took me two whole months of emails and phone calls to even get an interview. I only had one year of community college completed and let’s face it — I knew the basics and that was it. I still did anything and everything I possibly could to be of value and that attitude paid off. You have to want what you’re after badly enough and in the process, you will be tested and stretched to your limits but this is how you learn and grow. Seek out as many internships as possible; they’re a low pressure way to learn the ropes and to decide if the day-to-day reality of your profession is a good fit.

What are you waiting for?

The bottom line is that there’s always going to be someone that’s more skilled, better connected and in possession of a fancier portfolio and website but I promise you that this isn’t everything. If you embrace what makes you unique, have a positive, can-do attitude and are determined to do whatever it takes to break into your chosen industry, chances are that you will go far. Stay positive, stay strong and lastly, start your journey now. DON’T WAIT. Do what you’re meant to do.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about interiors and what it takes to make a house a home. And, when I look back at how we’ve decorated Wolfgang Manor thus far, an overall theme has emerged which I’ve dubbed Bavarian Modern. To me, Bavarian Modern is slick yet rustic. It encompasses old school touches like cuckoo clocks, vintage chandeliers, taxidermy, dashes of damask and a handful of worn wooden pieces mixed with a monochrome palette, modern furniture and an abundance of open space.

I’ve always been drawn to the modern side of interior design but growing up, my parents were obsessed with everything European (we had a cuckoo clock in our living room and visited Leavenworth every year for vacation) and there’s no denying that some of that influence rubbed off on me.

MOOD BOARD 01

1. Pia Wallén cross blanket. If you love this blanket as much as I do, click here. 2. Vintage carved wall decor. 3. Mountain home in Spain. 4. Mix-and-match plates. 5. Dali Lips sofa. 6. Saarinen Tulip Chair (we have some reproductions of these in our kitchen). 7. Silhouettes and taxidermy. 8. Lover lettering paired with a very dramatic bed.

MOOD BOARD 02

1. Cole & Son Woods Wallpaper in black (we’re considering this for our living room). 2. White fireplaces. 3. Jenna Lyons’ dramatic black bedroom & bath. 4. Black walls add drama to every day kitchen objects. 5. I love the mix of a modern exterior mixed with white walls and dark wood. 6. Miscellaneous taxidermy. 7. A living room that manages to strike the balance between rustic and modern.

MOOD BOARD 03

1. A dark and dramatic living room. 2. Weathered still-life featuring antlers by Ditte Isager. 3. I’m a big fan of the Superordinate Antler Chandelier by Jason Miller. 4. How cool is this type-covered mirror via One Language? 5. Gray makes everything feel more modern and less formal, including this couch. 6. Quite possibly the coolest fireplace I’ve ever seen.

So there you have it! Bavarian Modern.