A few years ago, I chose TRUST as my word of the year. It was a word that kept calling me back — one I knew I had a lot to learn from, and that I continue to explore.

I chose it because I wanted to build a deeper, more trusting relationship with my intuition, my decisions, my body, my creativity, and my ideas. This word became a gentle invitation to go inward, ask deep questions, and trust that I am always exactly where I’m supposed to be — even when my mind whispers otherwise.

Here are a few of the biggest lessons I learned as I leaned into TRUST, along with a special gift for you: a FREE download of 40 Affirmations for Creating Trust.

MIND: Go With the Flow

I work best without a strict schedule. While I’ve tried to plan every minute of my time, I’ve learned to trust my natural flow instead. I used to get overwhelmed by long to-do lists, often avoiding them with mindless scrolling or a big glass of wine.

This year, I renewed my practice of mind mapping to organize and prioritize my ideas — a total game-changer. Being able to “see” what was twirling around in my head helped me decide what was most important. Sticky notes in my planner allow me to rearrange tasks based on my energy level each week.

I still admire people who thrive with rigid schedules, but working with my natural rhythm feels more peaceful. We all have unique tendencies; taking time to explore and embrace them can create more flow in life.

AFFIRMATION: “I choose to go with the flow of life.”

Tip: Take time to explore your own natural rhythm — it can create more flow in your life.

BODY: Listening and Loving

For years, I approached exercise with strictness and little joy. This year, I chose only what felt good — sometimes strength training, sometimes a walk in nature, or yoga. I now see exercise as a way to celebrate and honor my body.

I’m learning to appreciate my “now body” (not always easy) for what it’s capable of instead of comparing it to younger years. To support this, I intentionally follow inspiring women who embrace body positivity at all stages of life:

Corinne Crabtree — helping women love their bodies while understanding nutrition and movement without BS diets.

Stasia Savasuk— teaching women to dress for their bodies at any age with confidence.

Katrina Scott (KSL Studio) & Karena Dawn (Tone it Up): — empowering women through diverse workouts and body-positive community.

Adriene Mishler — offering meditative yoga practices that center body, mind, and spirit.

These role models remind me that honoring your body is a lifelong practice, and one that deserves compassion and joy.

AFFIRMATION: “I honor my body and its wisdom.”

SPIRIT & CREATIVE SOUL: Trusting the Process

Creativity is where TRUST becomes most tangible for me. This year I:

Made mood boards and flower posies that inspired color studies in my paintings.
Created the “Cherish” Collection, small works that brought me joy.

Took a 2-day abstract painting workshop, stretching myself with larger canvases and intuitive painting.

Revived sketch journaling and meditative watercolor practices.

Continued a collaborative art book with my friend Tina Hirsig, sharing artwork and letters for nearly 20 years.

A page from the Collaborative Book Exchange: You can read my Laura TWO Tina letters HERE.

These practices taught me to trust the process, embrace uncertainty, and allow creativity to lead the way.

AFFIRMATION: “I trust my creativity and allow it to flow freely.”

Reflections from My Year of Trust

This year was about feeling into life and trusting what felt right, especially in my art. It’s a practice I will continue to refine, but here’s what I want to leave you with as you head into a new year:

Love yourself where you are now.

See yourself as you can be.

Actively create the most extraordinary life you can.

See the perfection in the journey and timing.

Be at peace with where you are now.

Know that you are loved!

A Little Gift for You: Affirmations on TRUST

Over the years, I’ve fallen in love with affirmations — little reminders that help me quiet my mind, trust my inner voice, and stay connected to what matters most.

I’ve made many affirmation books over the years, filled with some of my favorite affirmations. I love how small and compact they are — perfect to slip into your purse, leave on your bedside table, or tuck into your journal.

Affirmations are also wonderful to write out on sticky notes. I post them in places where I need gentle reminders: in my studio, on my bathroom mirror, in my Zen Den, in the kitchen by my coffee maker, and even in my car. They’ve helped me tremendously to keep things flowing in the direction I want my life to go.

I love them so much that I put together a collection of my favorite Affirmations on TRUST for you.

When you sign up below, you’ll receive your free download along with helpful tips for using affirmations in all areas of your life — to guide your mind, body, and spirit throughout the year.