“Illustration / design would be the dream future step…”

Today I am having a coffee with Racheal Hoult of Pondering Doodles, who has kindly agreed to answer my questions about her no BS happier life…

Q. How long have you been self-employed, and how do you make the most of the freedom that self-employment brings?

A. I’m currently employed part time as an Executive Assistant so Pondering Doodles is very much my creative outlet. It started two years ago when I realised (after quite a few years of considering many avenues) that illustration / design would be the dream future step.

Q. What are you passionate about – in business and in life?

A. I’m passionate about feminism particularly in relation to motherhood. I’m passionate about figuring out my style when it comes to my art too.

Q. What brings you joy?

A. So many things – my family, our dogs, art, photography and writing poetry. Being out in nature, a dog walk on the beach always brings me joy – even in the rain!

Q: How do you nurture yourself when you do something that is outside of your comfort zone?

A. By ensuring I get some time alone usually reading with our two dogs snuggled up close.

Q. How do you show yourself excessive kindness?

A. It’s something I struggle with every day but I try to go with my second thought much more these days when it comes to self-talk. Particularly recently, I’m trying to accept that nothing comes over night and I don’t have to achieve everything right now.

Q. What is one thing about being a business owner that you have learned is BS?

A. That everyone knows what they are doing all of the time!

Q. What will be your next adventure?

A. I’d say using my creativity to set up a side business is probably the next big adventure that I really need to stop dreaming about and just do!

Q. An important part of owning our own story is being able to state who we are without explanation. Tell us something about yourself / your preferences / your needs without any background or context:

A. I need to be alone a few hours a week.

Q. Who are you looking to work with, and how can people get in touch?

A. Anyone who needs an illustrator! They can get in touch via my Instagram page.

My thanks to Racheal for allowing me to share her insights! Look out for more interviews with members of my wonderful business network coming soon.

Helen Calvert
The No Bullsh*t Coach
May 2023