Our creative industry niche here at the House isn't always the easiest thing to maintain; it'd be easier, in the short run, to say yes to all and never turn away a prospective member. It is, however, a benefit that makes us different than other spaces. The conversations, connections and collaborations between our Housemates come more naturally for it, and from a place where it's easier to have that sense of being among kindred spirits. "Creative", as we say, is more of state of mind and how you do vs. what you do. While most of our membership works in visually creative businesses, others, like Sue, work creatively in a business that isn't traditionally so.
Dr. Sue Babcock was one of our earlier Community members, and she came to us during a pivotal time in her career. Seeking to transition her practice from mostly in-person to online, Sue has worked to update and expand her blog, provide more online services as part of her practice, and increase her mindfulness meditation classes and retreats. She's established relationships here at the House to help her in the process, benefited from our great group of experts to answer questions along the way, and given so much back to our community at every turn - including the Friday morning mindfulness sessions she hosts here to help keep us centered, positive and present on through the weekend. We recently took a few moments over coffee to learn more about her journey, her motivations, and what's coming up on the horizon.
What are you drinking?
A new local coffee roaster, Sea Bean, which I found at the Lake Worth Green Market.
Current mood in less than 3 words:
Calm.
How did you discover that being a psychologist was what you wanted to do?
I liked the story of people's lives, so becoming psychologist was a way to help people through more challenging times.
How'd you take the leap from passion to full time job?
After graduate school I was always working for other organizations like treatment centers or hospitals. Then I decided I wanted to be in my own space that was more comfortable for my clients, so I opened my own practice to be able to offer other services like meditation. Meditation was a personal endeavor that grew into something that I'm now able to offer as a guide, which wasn't initially apart of my daily life or private practice.
What's your favorite part about what you do?
I feel like I'm doing something meaningful with my life everyday, which also puts good into the world.
How has Social House helped you with the way you do business?
Taking risks, like doing more with my website. I also have the support to build on the meditation portion of my business. Social House offered me a beautiful space to connect with other people.
Any productivity tips or secrets?
Starting the day with an intention.
Any tips for other creatives looking to start their own business?
Do your research. Find out what you need to know as much as you can before you begin. Connect with others for support and information, find your community or network.
Your ah-ha moment:
When I tune into how I feel I notice that I'm more myself when I have my own place and my own business than when I'm working for someone else. I'm more present this way.
What's the most challenging part of owning your own business?
The uncertainty of clients and cancellations, and maintaining clientele in general.
And the most rewarding part?
When people express that they like the services I provide and can appreciate the warm and welcome space I have created at my office. I am also willing to go to people's homes for meditation practice in order to establish a consistent practice on their own time.
What's the most rewarding part of your week:
Tuesdays and Fridays when I get to do more meditation. Friday mornings are a new highlight, where I am able to guide a 20-minute mediation session for the members at the end of each week. Fridays are very reflective for the past week and looking into the weekend ahead.
Something that has happened while owning your own business that you never could have planned for or expected:
Being asked to provide meditation for individuals or groups when I had never meditated before I started my practice. My personal meditation eventually grew into a major component of my business through psychology.
What do you wish more people knew about you?
That I'm presently offering meditation and psychotherapy services online, which can be accessed on my website.
Your dream job:
To have my own meditation studio.
Your favorite piece of work:
I recently taught an afternoon meditation workshop within an art gallery when I was home in Minnesota. My friend owns a cool clothing boutique, which is near a theater in this little downtown area, so it was great to go back and offer my services in a unique, yet familiar setting.
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