We recently connected with Renee A. Schuls-Jacobson and have shared our conversation below.
Renee A., appreciate you joining us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
I suffered a four-year protracted withdrawal as a result of a disastrous tapering experience coming off a commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medication.
While recovering from profound neurological harm, I started painting as a way to distract myself from the hundreds of disturbing somatic symptoms associated abrupt cessation of psychiatric drugs.
During that same time, I realized I knew more than most board certified physicians when it comes to the dangers associated with longterm psychopharmacological substances. I treated myself as if I were healing from a brain injury and learned dozens of new skills to help me to calm my central nervous system and heal my life.
I made a promise to myself that if I was fortunate to make it thru the experience, I would devote the rest of my days to making art, educating people about the dangers associated with mood altering drugs & teaching people the tools to heal themselves.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
As a self-taught artist, I love working with people with “differentabilities,” & encourage them to trust their own intuition when it comes to developing their own unique style.
As a culture, we do not do enough to encourage people to experiment and do things out of pure enjoyment; instead, we tend to focus on performance and perfection. Psychologically, this does not always serve us well and it is important to have some kind of creative outlet that we fo simply to relax.
As a recovery coach who helps people heal from brain injuries, I encourage people to remember that neuroplasticity is real and I try to give people tools & experiences which help to stretch them creatively and which, in turn, help to develop new neural pathways.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
Honestly, I have focused on allowing things to happen slowly and organically. I think authenticity and integrity are in short supply these days, and I do my best to stay honest, compassionate and kind.
I never try to “sell” people my work or my services; I simply show them who I am and the right people will respond positively to what I have to offer.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I grew up with a strong work ethic, which is a good thing — but I was not taught anything about personal boundaries. Over the years, I have had to learn it is okay to say no to people and projects that don’t interest me.
I’ve also had to learn to take time for self-care, as rest and replenishment are energetically essential to cultivate a creative practice.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rasjacobson.store
- Instagram: @rasjacobson
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rasjacobsonart/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@RASJACOBSON
- Other: TikTok: Rasjacobson