You Don’t Need a Title — You Need a Project
How creative work reconnects us to identity, vocation, the person you long to become, and God.
I’ve been reflecting lately on the transformative power of meaningful projects.
The kind that spark our curiosity, challenge our growth, and awaken our unique gifts. Not just any project, but one that breathes life into our days and reveals something deeply true about who we are.
People who have that… The ones who are lit up by something they’re creating or nurturing, are people I could sit with for hours in conversation. Visionaries. Builders. Givers. There’s no trace of competition, because everyone is a collaborator. Everyone brings something to the table. Everyone rises.
It’s a gift to be in the presence of those who are contributing in their element from a sense of joy and alignment.
There’s a beautiful phrase from St. Irenaeus that I hold onto:
“The glory of God is man fully alive.”
That’s exactly how I’d describe people with this quality. And one thing they all have in common?
A project.
A Sense of Identity Beyond Titles and Roles
For many people, our sense of identity becomes tightly bound to our careers or traditional roles. Whether we're young (naïve) women anxious about "losing ourselves to motherhood"— because I truly believe motherhood is an expansion of who you are in every way possible — more on this another time! Or empty nesters navigating the quiet spaces left behind when children leave home, there's a longing within us all for something more expansive. Something that feels truly ours.
A meaningful project can be many things. It doesn’t have to be artsy in nature. Perhaps it’s an event that gathers a small community together, a small group meeting regularly at the local coffee shop, a ministry supporting a cause close to your heart, an Instagram account sharing the art that you create in the in-between moments, or even the beginnings of a new business. The seeds are already within you because a unique creativity is inherent in every person. It might start small and quiet, but with intention and care, it could blossom into something that bridges the gap between your current life and the vibrant, purposeful life that awaits.
Maybe you're at a crossroads right now. Perhaps you're a recent graduate uncertain about your career path. Or you've been working the same job for years, feeling each day blur into the next without much distinction.
Even here, especially here — you need a project.
Because a meaningful project, born out of genuine curiosity, generosity, and purpose, reaches beyond the confines of daily routines and expectations. It helps us remember our identity isn't limited to a job title or societal role.
The Deeper Truth
Our stories are dynamic, ever-evolving, and beautifully co-created with God.
In Christus Vivit, a piece that radically changed my life, Pope Francis gives this encouragement:
To respond to our vocation, we need to foster and develop all that we are.
This has nothing to do with inventing ourselves or creating ourselves out of nothing. It has to do with finding our true selves in the light of God and letting our lives flourish and bear fruit.
Your vocation inspires you to bring out the best in yourself for the glory of God and the good of others. It is not simply a matter of doing things, but of doing them with meaning and direction.
Your project doesn't have to mean quitting your job tomorrow or launching a huge enterprise overnight. It might start as a gentle whisper, a small curiosity explored on quiet evenings or weekends.
If you’re like me… This is how Craft & Being started, on my maternity leave, during the late nights and multiple feed sessions… I allowed my brain to wander.
Notice what energizes you. What makes your eyes brighten and your heart quicken with possibility.
Imagine what it might feel like to channel your gifts into something meaningful, something that not only sparks joy in your life but enriches those around you. You have the power to invite others along — friends with complementary talents, wise mentors, or kindred collaborators who share your vision.
So, as a friend on this shared journey, here's my question to you:
What project could you begin — one that will help you feel fully alive?
Take a moment to reflect, dream, and share your thoughts. Or if you’re already working on something, what is it! I'd love to hear about the project stirring within your heart.
In memory and honor of Pope Francis, let’s continue dreaming boldly, building bridges, and cultivating lives of purpose and connection.
Warmly,
Camille
This week, we are launching the private chat for those of you who expressed interest in The Creator’s Map. I’m so looking forward to connecting with all of you!
If you’d like more information on the full experience, here’s what I shared in last week’s entry:
The Creator’s Map is a guided brand discovery experience for those feeling the nudge to offer what you’ve been given, even if it starts quietly and imperfectly.
Through reflective exercises, guided audios in private podcast format, and simple brand and content frameworks, we’ll work on clarifying your message, understanding your audience, and creating a content game plan that’s right for you, so you can begin showing up in a wholehearted, effective, and sustainable way.
It’s less a course, and more like a guided retreat with workshops sprinkled in. Completing it could look like booking a weekend away from your usual space and responsibilities, or simply carving out an hour each night after the house quiets to take steps forward. Romanticize it. It’s better that way.
And of course, you’ll have me and the private group for support throughout.
By the end of the 6 modules (taken at your pace), you’ll feel clear on who you’re here to serve, confident in how you show up online, and empowered with a sustainable approach to personal branding that doesn’t lead to burnout.
You can still join the waitlist here:
I have loved your essay. I totally share the view that we are co-creators of our life, together with the Universe. Your reminder that we don’t need a title but a project is so beautiful and important. I’ve often been trapped by this wrong belief (and still am in some situations) . The project that I have at heart, that I am starting gently, slowly, with all the love, joy and determination, is my Substack. I want to share my truth, what I’ve learned, embodied, experienced and create a caring, compassionate community where women get together, share their gifts, learn to have a balanced lifestyle and learn to fully reclaim their power as well as honour, embrace, love who they truly are.
Lovely piece of writing. I’ve been reflecting on this for the past few years now, especially with the start of my Sabbatical back in 2022. So often we tie our self-worth to our careers and vocations, money, relationships. I realized that to reclaim my worthiness in regards to work, it was important to weave small hobbies and projects into the fabric of being (with purpose), with no ties to some financial reward, outcome or even expectations. Only then can we truly find joy in the work we do.