How the Outdoors Became My Secret Weapon for Mental Clarity + Creativity

Over the past three years, something unexpected happened. I fell in love with being outside.

Not just for the occasional walk or patio brunch, but truly being outdoors. Hiking. Exploring new trails. Getting fresh air with my furry sidekick, Benji. Even trying (and surviving!) kayaking, which was equal parts terrifying and empowering. That was definitely my first and probably my last time in a kayak, but I’m still so glad I pushed myself to do it.

What started as a way to get moving became so much more. Every time I hit a trail or spend time by the water, I leave feeling refreshed, refocused, and just… lighter.

There’s something about being in nature that clears my mind and helps me get grounded again. As someone juggling a lot—career, business, clients, life—being outside gives me the pause I don’t always realize I need. It’s like a reset button.

And here’s the magic: when I step away from the to-do lists and noise, I start getting new ideas. Better ideas. Creative solutions. Career coaching content I want to create. A new offer I hadn’t thought of before. Even a reminder of what I really want next. It’s like stepping outside helps me step into a more focused, intuitive version of myself.

If you’re feeling burned out, creatively stuck, or like your thoughts are just bouncing around with no clear direction, this is your sign to step outside. You don’t need to climb a mountain (unless that’s your thing!), but even a short walk, sitting by the water, or taking a call outside can shift your whole mindset.

Nature has a way of reminding us of who we are and helping us get back to the version of ourselves that can tackle anything.

Until next time, keep chasing your dreams!

Nirva Mentor

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Rejection Isn’t the End—It’s a Redirect: How to Handle Job Search Setbacks

You put in the work. Updated your resume. Practiced your answers. Maybe even felt like the interview went really well—only to receive the dreaded “we’ve decided to move forward with another candidate” email. It stings. Especially when you’re in the middle of a transition, trying to find clarity, or just need something to finally work out.

But here’s the truth: rejection isn’t the end. It’s a redirect.

What if this “no” is simply pointing you toward a better “yes”?

Rejection in the job search doesn’t mean you're not qualified, valuable, or worthy. It often just means:

• The company’s internal priorities changed

• They had an internal candidate in mind

• You were a strong fit, but someone else was just a slightly better match for that moment

It’s not personal—but it feels personal. And that's okay. You're human. You're allowed to feel the sting. But you don't have to stay stuck in it!

Here’s how to bounce back after a job rejection:

1. Feel it, then refocus

Take a moment to acknowledge your feelings. Journaling, venting to a friend, or even taking a quick break can help. Once you've processed the emotion, ask yourself: What can I learn from this experience?

2. Ask for feedback (when possible)

A simple, kind email asking if they can share what could’ve strengthened your candidacy can give you real insight for the next opportunity.

3. Revisit your vision

Was this job truly aligned with what you want long-term—or were you applying out of urgency or frustration? Sometimes rejection is the nudge we need to get back in alignment with our bigger picture.

4. Take intentional next steps

Refresh your resume, update your LinkedIn, or reach out to your network with clarity on what you're looking for. Momentum is powerful—but only when it’s aligned with your vision.

5. Protect your mental health

This journey can be draining. Don’t underestimate the importance of rest, boundaries, and self-care. Whether that’s therapy, coaching, or simply taking a walk outside—make space for it.

That rejection wasn’t the end—it was redirection. Toward something more aligned. Toward growth. Toward a role that gets you, values you, and supports the life you’re building.

You’re not behind. You’re being guided.

If you’re feeling stuck in the process and need support creating a strategy that protects both your peace and your ambition, I’d love to help!

Until next time, keep chasing your dreams!

Nirva Mentor

Breaking Free from Micromanagement: Knowing When to Stay, Speak Up, or Walk Away

We’ve all heard the term “micromanagement,” but living through it is a whole different story. It can drain your confidence, stifle your creativity, and make you question your abilities. I know this firsthand — I was exciting to start a new role and after enduring seven months under a micromanager, I made the difficult decision to quit without a backup job. But sometimes, timing works in your favor. The very day I resigned, a recruiter I had been in touch with called to see if I was still looking. By the following week, I had landed a new role.

Let’s talk about how to navigate micromanagement: when to try to make it work and when it might be time to move on.

Understanding Micromanagement: Micromanagement often stems from a manager’s lack of trust or their own insecurities. While some oversight is normal, constant checking, lack of autonomy, and unnecessary control can create a toxic work environment.

How to Manage a Micromanager:

1. Set Clear Expectations: Ask for detailed priorities, deadlines, and success metrics. This can help reduce unnecessary check-ins.

2. Proactive Communication: Provide regular updates before your manager asks, showing initiative and keeping them informed.

3. Assert Your Autonomy: Kindly but firmly express when you feel confident handling tasks independently, explaining how it boosts productivity.

4. Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for constructive feedback to show you value growth, which might ease their need to over-supervise.

   
   

When to Have a Conversation: If the micromanagement persists, request a one-on-one meeting. Share how their management style affects your work and well-being, using specific examples. Express your desire to collaborate effectively and suggest small adjustments.

Knowing When It’s Time to Leave: If conversations don’t lead to change and your mental health or job satisfaction suffers, it might be time to explore other opportunities. No job is worth sacrificing your peace. And trust me, leaving without a plan can be terrifying, but sometimes stepping away opens doors you couldn’t have imagined.

If you’re feeling stuck under a micromanager, know that you have options. You deserve a workplace where you can thrive. And sometimes, letting go of what weighs you down is the very thing that lifts you up!

Until next time, keep chasing your dreams!

Nirva Mentor