Both of my parents are retired teachers, and to be honest, I never ever expected to follow in their footsteps. Yet after saying “Yes!” to leading a workshop in Portland last week, I will announce: I am 100% addicted to teaching others.
There were hiccups. My confidence was shaky and my sensitivity came out in all the wrong places. But wow. I learned a lot. I learned that I really can rely on myself and myself alone. I learned that I’m stronger than I imagined. I learned that when things around you become chaotic and you feel the world is crumbling, your soul sings a lullaby. It’s inherent. I think that’s what it’s there for.
I learned that something magical happens when you group together 20 inspiring women. I learned that community is inevitable. I learned that energy is contagious. I found that taking the high road is always, always the best decision in life.
I learned that I want to do this for the rest of my life. I learned that investing in others financially, emotionally, spiritually, creatively and academically is my calling. I learned that I can do this.
I learned that I will do this.
I’ll be leading another creativity course (albeit a different format!) in San Francisco next month. I’d love for you to be there to be a part of the amazing, life-changing experience that is grouping together like-minded strangers and storming the castle of awesome.
Please come. I’ll meet you there.
Yay for this post and all the lessons learned!
Boo that you are leaving again next month though! How ever will I get by? I just might have to stow away with you!
I’m so glad it was such a success…I knew it would be :)
thanks friends. :)
yay! we’re excited to have you in San Fran! you are a great teacher!
thanks katy love. :)
you are adorbs. lots of people (ahem…me) learn from you daily, sweet girl. so glad you’re exploring this new calling. wish i was in san fran! ox
oh i wish, too!
If I can afford to get up to SF (which I need to do anyways)… think one of your sponsors might sponsor me to be in your class? Or work something out with RUE? This needs to happen, lady.
Also, you’re awesome.
oh you are sweet. :)
*cough* TEXAS *cough*
{subliminal hint}
There is nothing like teaching – and the best ones, like you have discovered, learn as much as they are teaching. xo
oh i’d love texas!!!!!
Erin,
You are a shining star, as genuine and lovely as one could hope to be or find. I am so happy I got to share a meal with you – and look forward to many more when we find ourselves in the same places again. Which we will, for sure.
xoxo
lynn
amen, sweet lynn!
good 4u! i ve learnt that it only works when one is emotionally aware, open and MOST important, honest. and, its a ride! enjoy!
thanks paula. :)
when, where, how in SF? :)
here are the deets, sheri!:
http://www.teahouseartstudio.com/erin
as Lisa said, you have found your calling. go Erin, go! watch out world!!!
thank you sweet anne. :)
Lovely, I would argue that community is NOT inevitable and that it takes thoughtful leadership and spirited connection. You must’ve created the perfect stage for community to shine!
awww thank you ashlea!!! you are a dear!
congratulations! It’s so inspiring. I wish I could make it to your workshop in SF but I will be working. Next time you make it over to Northern California, please let us know!
absolutely, love!!! :)
You are awesome. If I were closer, I know I’d be one of your workshop groupies!! ;)
aww thank you sweet meghan. :)
yesssss! looking forward to the sf course!
so glad you’re coming!!! :)
I’m so glad you loved it! Teaching is hard. You’re putting yourself out there, as an expert, and it feels so vulnerable. Thank goodness it’s so rewarding! You should totally do a Midwest workshop, I would be there in a heartbeat.
Erin…such beautiful words. Congratulation on finding what makes you inspired, happy, energised…and free! It is amazing when you find it, or when it finds you. And teaching, mentoring and supporting people is one of the most amazing life roles you can take! I love dipping into your blog from sunny sydney…and this is the first time ive commented and said hello… but I love your space and sharing in your loves… michelex
any plans to have one in So. Cal?????
“Storming the castle of awesome”…LOVE IT! I so wish I could be there. Perhaps you will consider holding a course on the East Coast :)
Your commentary about this conference is so beautiful, that I know the week was incredible. I taught both adults and kids for over 15 years, and it is exhilarating, inspiring and energizing like nothing else. I’m glad you broke the fear barrier because you have a lot to share, sweetness.
thank you so much for your sweet words, everyone. :)
(and yes — we’re thinking minneapolis, austin, chicago and los angeles in the near future.)
It was one of the most amazing and inspiring weekends I’ve ever had! So many lovely and talented ladies there to listen, learn and love. I’m here to say Erin does have secret super powers, well maybe not so secret! Thank you Erin for allowing people the space to change with 100% support, you are a gem. xoxo
oh, cariann — you make me CRY. i’m so, so thrilled you were a part of such an amazing experience for me. board member forever! :)
e.
Love this post and can absolutely relate. I taught a seminar for the first time myself recently and also LOVED it! It’s not for the faint hearted to be sure, but a great investment of time and energy. I hope you continue to find your calling!
FABULOUS!!! I love those moments in life!! So happy you shared your experience. I always say if I had to do it all over again…I’d be a teacher :)
BTW….how bout a creativity course in Chicago ;) ???
thank you so much, sweet arlene. and i would LOVE to come to chicago! i’ll put it on the list! :)