Life and Work with Janie Churley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Janie Churley.

Janie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I grew up always feeling a little on the outside- I was active but I wasn’t an athlete, I was smart but I wasn’t the smartest, I was pretty but I wasn’t popular. I was always trying to find my place and this quickly turned into a lot of people pleasing and validation seeking. This mindset and a teenage diagnosis of Type One Diabetes created a constant nagging feeling of inadequacy. I fell into self-pity at times, but my strong upbringing combined with some star alignment taught me how to step out of a victim mentality and into ownership of my life. My pain has often been the catalyst of my efforts to find better, to be better, and to learn from my experiences. The drive to never stop seeking solution and peace and happiness and purpose has to lead me to the most enchanting experiences and a true feeling of confidence and self-love I thought was unattainable.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road is littered with struggles. I’ve found the struggles are what makes it worth the drive. I’ve dealt with medical issues, fear of death, unhealthy coping skills, toxic relationships, and a multitude of mental battles amongst and between them all. My two pieces of advice for young women (or anyone) maneuvering through this life journey would be to never stop seeking and to be kind- to yourself and to others. It sounds so cheesy and makes me want to roll my eyes a little, but I found that when I stopped fighting myself, things became clearer. When I put real effort into understanding and accepting the parts of myself I thought needed changing, the real freedom began. I found a sense of peace and like I could let my shoulders down and stop trying to punish myself into “being better.” Once I could validate myself, I didn’t need validation from others quite as often. That effect bled into my experiences with others – as I wasn’t so busy seeking approval or love in my relationships, I could spend more time being a friend – providing love and support to others.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
Jack of some trades, specialist in none? Haha. I’m still working on getting comfortable speaking about my own skills and talents. I’m probably most known for yoga – I’ve practiced for years and taught group and private sessions on and off. More recently, I’ve gotten really into painting. I have to say that’s what I’m most proud of. I dabbled in painting years ago and I’ve been pulled toward painting ever since, always finding a reason not to. It’s not something I was naturally good at, so I avoided it for a long time. I practiced more “from life” painting and have recently gotten on a kick with personalized pet portraits! I think what sets me apart in anything I do is my attention to detail and my determination to personalize – I never want a service I provide to feel like one size fits all.

What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
There’s always room for growth and there’s always time for failure. The struggle is real and that realness leads to learning and self-awareness that no money or success can provide. The only true end is when you give up- there is so much value in the hard stuff if you’ll only look for it. If no other value, your struggles can shine light for someone else and create a human connection – something we all need more of.

And go try that thing you’ve been scared of.

Contact Info:

• Email: jane.elizabeth904@gmail.com
• Instagram: CAGELESS.WINGS

    Image Credit:
Close Up Yoga Photo: Michelle Lerma Photography

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