11/10/2026
“What if it turns out better than you imagined?” 💗
Sometimes a few simple words hit a little differently.
I received an email from the incredibly talented Michelle Sparks | Pop Artist | Brisbane Australia last week, and this quote really stopped me in my tracks.
Michelle shared the story behind this beautiful piece of artwork and how those words helped her take the leap from a career in teaching to building her own business.
And wow, did that resonate. 🥹
After 27 years working in retail, taking the leap to focus on building Eight Hours full-time was equal parts exciting, terrifying and a whole lot of what on earth am I doing?!
Running your own business isn’t always the pretty Instagram version. There are sleepless nights, moments of self-doubt, unexpected challenges and, in my case, the occasional supply chain drama that makes you question your entire life choices! 🚢🤦🏼♀️
But then there are the moments that remind you exactly why you took that chance.
A lovely customer message. Seeing one of our beautiful artist collaborations come to life. Someone choosing to spend their hard earned money supporting something you’ve poured your heart into.
And suddenly, all those little moments add up to something pretty special.
I’ve admired Michelle’s artwork for a long time, and I’m lucky enough to have some of her beautiful pieces hanging in my own home (which even made it into her newsletter!)
But this particular piece? It’s more than just a beautiful painting. It’s a reminder that sometimes you have to back yourself, embrace the uncertainty and take the bloody leap.
Because what if it really does turn out better than you imagined?
Here’s to the dreamers, the risk-takers, the small business owners and everyone quietly wondering whether they’re doing the right thing.
Keep going. You never know what’s around the corner.
And a little thank you to Michelle for creating art that doesn’t just brighten our walls, but makes us stop, think and feel something too. 💗