Living Life Your Way.... Interview with Sarah Stevens

 I've been working hard the last few months at overcoming my fears and following my dreams. So I'm running a series of interview with inspiring people to see what part fear has played in their life and how they've overcome it to live life their way...

This weeks interview is with Sarah Stevens from {Vie Boheme}

Hi Sarah , tell us a little about yourself. Asides from your blog, what else do you do?

 
Thank you so much for having me beautiful Pixie Polly! I'm honored that you've invited me to your table to chat.

 

Let's see. Right now, I'm a non-traditional student at Portland State University and I'm working on my last year of school before getting my Bachelor of Arts in Studio Practices. I spend the bulk of my time these days researching and working on art projects in the painting studio. But I'm also a photographer & mama to a very special 4 year old named Skye. For the past year, I've been involved in the exciting process of starting my own business, {Vie Boheme} Photography.

Is the life you lead now the life you've always dreamt of?

You know--it's funny you should you ask. Eleven years ago I dreamed of attending school to get a degree in art; envisioned myself painting in a studio until late in the night and going to lectures by important contemporary artists. And a couple days ago, as I carried an awkwardly large drawing portfolio and two bags of art supplies across campus, a sudden wave of clarity overtook me.

Not only had I stayed in the studio until 12:30am the previous day, but I had also just recently participated in a lecture by an amazing activist artist! Something about stepping off the curb and looking down the busy Portland street that day was autumn magic. And I finally recognize the truth of my journey--that I am most certainly in the midst of living my dreams.
 

When you have faced difficulties, what has been your inspiration to keep going? I adore discussing questions of the heart. My dearest inspirations are art, earth, music, family and friends. They are my soul mates. And, at one time or another, all of these loves and lovers have convinced me to keep fighting the good fight. In the dark times, they chorus my soul's mission of purpose. That I exist for a reason. And that I am here to spread light even in the darkness. Love is nuzzled at the core of everything I do. And I believe that peace will prevail over difficulty, even in my own heart. Most of all, it is my peaceful idealism, a vision of the best of all possible worlds, that keeps me afloat during difficult times.

Fear affects us all at some point. What part has fear played in your life and how have you overcome it?

When I was 15, I was diagnosed with manic depression. Recently, I was diagnosed with anxiety and PTSD as well. I know fear so intimately that sometimes getting out of bed feels like a battle. But, I refuse to let it rule my life! And, I've learned a host of tools and tricks for keeping my fears in their proper place. In fact, I don't believe fear is something that needs to be overcome at all. It just needs to be firmly guided.

For me, that means cultivating a healthy relationship with my fears. I do my best to stay grounded in practices that nourish my soul. Art. Yoga. Exercise. Organic foods. Time in nature. Time with family. Journaling. Meditation. Lots of water. Good music. Friends. Dancing. Travel. Exploration. Deep breathing. Education.

The more I lean into these practices in my life, the more the fear changes from a thundering loud voice, to just a restless whisper. Of course, she's always there. But, when I'm doing my soul's work, the things that are good for my body and mama earth, I am more inclined to look on my fears with love and patience than with anger or contempt. And, when I listen to my fears lovingly, my decisions regarding her advice are much healthier.
 

What advice would you offer on following your heart and living your dreams?

Living a life of your dreams means putting everything you've got toward your vision. Blood. Sweat. Tears. Paper cuts. Late nights. All of it! It takes tenacity and the certitude that you are working toward something meaningful. Your inner demons are your worst critics and they will try to get the best of you. Don't let them. Take good care of yourself. The world needs you at your best.

We each only get this one chance at this one particular beautiful life to make it worthwhile. Once you commit to following your heart, you've got to hold onto your dream with everything you've got. Don't ever give up! And always remember that you are gorgeous, brave and as worthy as anyone on this planet to make your wildest dreams come true!  

What do you think are the three most important things you need to lead a happy and radiant life?

Definitely Love. Creativity. And connection with nature. If we treat mama earth with love and respect, she showers us with fruit and makes our lives infinitely rich. When we pursue the cosmic creative spark that animates us and all things, we find joys beyond our wildest dreams. And when our hearts are grounded in love, we can heal the world.

 

Where can we connect with you?

Fall quarter has been super busy for me. Unfortunately my online time is limited until December. But, I check my e-mail every day. And you can still connect with me at my blog, {Vie Boheme} and at Light Chasing. Or you can catch me on facebook, twitter, and flickr.

Thanks Sarah!