Be Part of the Change: 5 Lessons from Soap Making

Today, in light of the challenges facing the world due to climate change, I write about the lessons that I have learnt from the soap making process. If you have decided that you want to be part of social change and justice, this article on my soap making experiences will give you the motivation that you need to keep going. 

1. Fear of failure

Fear is such a crippling emotion. When you start a new journey, there is always a sense of fear that comes with trying something new. Soap making has taught me that fear is to be embraced. It requires you to sit with the discomfort of the unknown, but still try anyway. It is about sitting with emotions that sometimes make you feel small, and acknowledging that you are doing something new and you will get better with time. I remember the first time I drove a car. I was beyond scared and imagined the worst possible scenarios. However, every time I felt scared, I still got behind the wheel and kept trying. The same concept applies to soap making and life in general. When one embarks on a new journey filled with so many unknowns, welcome the fear and sit with it. However, do not stay there for too long because fear can cause stagnancy when you stay with it for a long time.

2. Trying something new

The world as we know it today would not be the same way that it is now had people not tried new ideas. Many of them surely failed, but they kept trying. For instance, inventors such as Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner who invented the sanitary belt, the predecessor to the menstrual pad. Imagine a world where women still have to struggle with periods. Although many women and girls experience period or menstrual poverty, society has come a long way in providing solutions to a natural human experience. Imagine if the inventor of the menstrual belt doubted herself. Sure, there might have been criticism and many might have told her that her idea might not work. However, critique is never a setback but a chance to prove to yourself and not others that you are capable. 

3. Stay curious

Curiosity is good. The more you ask, the more you are likely to encounter people who will give you answers. Asking questions is the key to beating fear when you are entering unknown territory. Never be afraid to look or sound dumb because asking questions leads to new revelations that reveal new solutions. There is never a stupid question. It is okay to look silly and awkward when you are on a new journey. You will find people who see you, people who are kind to you and people who are always ready to share their knowledge. 

4. Imposter syndrome

Many people experience imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome (IS) refers to "a behavioural health phenomenon described as self-doubt of intellect, skills, or accomplishments among high-achieving individuals". When you are trying something new which you have never done, anxiety starts to creep in. One starts overthinking if they are worth certain opportunities and if they are capable. This is why it is important to have mentors and a community. People to share your fears with and assure you that you are on the right path. The truth is, many people have grown up not seeing people in their own families achieve greatness. So do not self-reject, change the trajectory, push aside self-limiting thoughts and do what you have always wanted to do.

5. Stay motivated

Learning something new is expensive. Those expenses can be heavy on your mental health, wallet, motivation and joy. Remember that comparison is the thief of joy, and remind yourself that you are on your journey. Someone else succeeding at making soap or any other products should motivate or inspire you, rather than create a sense of motivation. Take breaks in between and keep looking for sources of inspiration that will continue nudging you towards success. Remember that even the greatest minds need a break, and rest is a form of productivity as well. 

Remember friends, good things take time and the cost of entry is embarrassment.