Masi Gold Winner | New Construction over $200 Per Square Foot | Amanda Hamilton of Amanda Hamilton Interior Design for Range Roaf Residence project, IDA

Dear Members of the Interior Designers of Alberta, 
 
Wow….the last few months have been tough but as we recover from yet another wave of the pandemic, I for one, feel a sense of hope for a positive future. As the hardest months of winter are behind us and spring is on the horizon, it is time to find our seeds of inspiration and motivation to keep designing great spaces. 
 
Reflecting on the past, we can learn from what has previously challenged us. Digging into mistakes with a mind to find the solution to the problem is a great way to turn a negative into an opportunity. Reframing your focus can change your perspective on an issue and spark new ideas. Discussing a problem with a colleague (because two heads are better than one) is a great way to see a problem in a new way and the social connection can be very motivating to do better. 
 
Finding success in what has been done already, when thinking about your own design helps to bolster your confidence.If you have been able to realize good design in the past you surely can do it again. Or exploring the great designs of the past, can stimulate new thoughts. Assessing the emotions evoked by different spaces and environments can help you understand how the combination of design elements worked well to create success.Breaking out of your comfort zone will open your eyes to new possibilities. 
 
Disconnecting from all the ‘noise’ of the world, can help you to really focus on the present. I find a simple walk outdoors where I intentionally try to think of nothing else but my breath, clears my mind. Then I can really begin to soak in the environment and find inspiration everywhere from a repetitive row of trees to the organic curve of a leaf, the color of the sky or the sleek lines of the vehicles on the road. In addition, studies have found that any movement that increases blood flow and oxygen intake will boost your creative output. It can also be motivating to check off that ‘I’ve exercised today’ box so that you can move onto your next task.
 
Building anticipation for the future is very motivating. We all need something to look forward to in life. Have you ever been excited about taking a big trip or holiday, sometimes more than the actual event? Imagining your future stimulates you to push through tougher tasks. As you visualize what your design will look like you are increasing your focus and energy to achieve your goal. Anticipation doesn’t have to be limited to big accomplishments though. You can reward achieving daily efforts by looking forward to having a bath, cooking a good meal, reading a book or enjoying a glass of wine with a friend at the end of your day.

Regardless of where you find your motivation and inspiration, the important thing is that you continue to seek it out. Striving for better is always a good feeling and with the shaky foundation of uncertainty we have all been living through, we can all use an injection of positive emotions. In the words of two great women, Oprah Winfrey and Glennon Doyle, “what I know for sure” is “we can do hard things!”
 
Yours,
Louise Aroche

IDA Winter Educational Series | Design Your Business - A Roadmap to Strong Practice

Missed out on Session One?

When you purchase the entire series, you will have access to videos of all three presentations.

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Session I & II is available virtually to catch up on your own.

Mar 9, 2022

12:00 – 14:00

Session III – Value-Based Pricing

URBAN encounters

Alberta’s top interior design trade show.

Urban Encounters is back after a much anticipated wait! Don't miss this opportunity to connect with colleagues and see the latest offerings in one location.

YYC | Thursday Apr 28 2022, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
YEG | Tuesday May 03 2022, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

IDA Members | Free

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IDA 2022 Annual General Meeting