Unlearning Hustle Culture: A Journey with Helen Holden

Helen Holden, founder of creative practice MakeCreate, has been on an inspiring journey of self-discovery and balance. Like many women in the creative industries, she initially dove into hustle culture, believing that constant busyness equated to success. As a mother of two and a burgeoning entrepreneur, her early years were filled with frantic energy, saying yes to every opportunity that came her way.

However, Helen’s perspective shifted as she realized that true success isn’t about being busy; it’s about being intentional. Through her journey, she learned to protect her creative energy and set boundaries. By reframing success, she prioritizes her wellbeing, both as a creative and a parent.

Setting Boundaries: The Key to Balance

Helen’s experience begins with the chaotic days of starting her own practice. Working nearly seven days a week while raising young children taught her that saying no is sometimes necessary. It took years of unlearning her creative agency’s relentless pace to recognize that she could shape her own process.

• Establishing clear priorities
• Creating focused creative time
• Knowing when to step away and recharge

This newfound understanding of balance has brought clarity to her work. With high-functioning ADHD, Helen harnessed her energy efficiently, ensuring creativity didn’t feel like just another task on her list. She prioritizes exercise and enforces strict work hours that respect her family responsibilities.

Pushing Back Against Hustle Culture

In the early years, Helen succumbed to the belief that success meant constant activity. However, this pressure drained her creativity. She now recognizes that productivity isn’t the sole measure of success.

As Helen retrains to become a counsellor, her commitment to sustainable work deepens. She values rest and ensures it takes precedence over mindless busyness. This intentional pushback against hustle culture allows her to develop meaningful connections rather than fleeting accomplishments.

Redefining a Balanced Life

For Helen, a balanced life intertwines family, creativity, and personal growth. Understanding that balance isn’t about perfection leads her to make intentional choices. As she carves out time for her children, her creative pursuits, and self-care, she embraces the notion that

• Creativity needs space to breathe
• Emotional well-being is just as crucial

By giving herself permission to pause with intention, Helen embodies a balanced life that cherishes growth and creativity.