From Burnout to Blossoming: How Art Became My Path to Passion and Purpose!

From my earliest memories, art has been my sanctuary. As a child, the freedom it granted me from the constraints of structured academia brought solace. The joy of crafting and creating was my refuge, a respite from the pressures of conventional education. Even in those early days, I sensed a unique tranquility when immersed in artistic expression.

As I grew older, the desire to make art a central part of my life intensified. The allure of not only unleashing creativity but also sculpting a lifestyle that bends to my rhythm became undeniable. Art isn’t merely a medium for me; it’s a gateway to a flow state, a zen-like immersion where time loses its grip, and every stroke is a dance.

Navigating the path from childhood doodles to a potential career in art wasn’t always apparent. In the rigid structure of schooling, art often held the guise of just another subject, yet its therapeutic power never waned. Creating became my antidote to academic stress, an anchor of peace in the storm of grades and expectations.

It wasn’t until August 2022 that I started my Instagram page, @mandala.art.room.by.pooja, initially as a means to heal from the burnout of my corporate job. Little did I know, this humble beginning would blossom into selling art professionally by November 2023. The decision to pursue art felt like the right thing to do – a calling that resonated deep within me.

My father, Mr. Ravindra Gavande, my grandmother, Mrs. Sharda Gavande, and my dear friend, Ms. Anushka Gujar, were pillars of unwavering support, both financially and through direct involvement in my art projects. Their belief in me, coupled with the encouragement of friends like Ms. Priya Tarade, Ms. Sai Vartak, Mrs. Prerana Singh, and Ms. Deepika Ambre, who booked orders, fueled my determination.

Debuting my ‘Mandala Art Room by Pooja’ brand at an exhibition was a much-needed escape from my mundane 9 to 5 job. Weekends became my sanctuary as I delved into creating mandalas to relieve stress. When a local café hosting an exhibition for small businesses caught my eye, I knew it was my chance to showcase my work. With determination, I booked a spot and poured all my spare time into crafting wall hangings and tea coasters. The day before the exhibition, I had 10 of each ready. They may not have been the most diverse products, but they were crafted with care.

As the exhibition day dawned, nerves set in. Would people appreciate my work? Would anyone even buy anything? These questions plagued me as attendees began to trickle in. But with my father by my side, offering unwavering support, I found the courage to face the day. Despite the initial anxiety, the experience was a rollercoaster of emotions – from nervousness to excitement to happiness. But when I made my first sale, it felt like a victory. It may have been just one sale, but it meant the world to me.

Hosting my first exhibition stall was a journey filled with ups and downs, but it taught me the importance of perseverance and the value of support from loved ones. Here’s to many more exhibitions and the memories they’ll bring!

However, the path to success hasn’t been without its challenges. The biggest hurdle I currently face is the lack of capital for my business. Undeterred, I’ve decided to find a job and fund my own venture, for art brings me immeasurable joy, and with perseverance, it can become a full-time pursuit.

Instagram has been an invaluable tool, helping me market my products, share my journey, gain orders, host workshops, and build a supportive community around my art projects.

If you, too, are a woman or a mom seeking inspiration to reignite your passions and pursue a fulfilling career after a break, let my story be a beacon of hope. Follow your heart, embrace your talents, and have faith in the power of perseverance. Connect with me and my captivating mandala art on Instagram.

Note from the Blog Owner:

As the founder of Momyhood.in, I am inspired by Pooja’s resilience and determination to pursue her passion for art. Her journey from burnout to blossoming is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your passions and craft a life that aligns with your deepest desires. By sharing tales of women entrepreneurs like Pooja, we hope to inspire and empower more women to embrace their unique gifts and embark on paths that bring them joy, fulfillment, and financial independence.

Since it’s Women’s Month, I’d love to use my platform to promote and uplift women entrepreneurs. If you have a business you’d like me to feature, please share your journey with me through DM on my Instagram.

And if you’re looking to bring more mindfulness and joy into your parenting, join the Manifesting Parenting Bliss WhatsApp channel to get daily inspiration right on your phone. Unlock the secrets to peaceful, intentional parenting by clicking here to join now.