While we’ve missed our furloughed team members greatly over the last few months, we’re thrilled to hear about all sorts of new ventures and hobbies that have taken shape from the creative bunch. It’s a silver lining to hear that team members are finding new endeavours, ready to come back recharged (soon we hope!). Emma Jones, Marble LDN Event Producer, shares what she’s been up to, and how she’s turned a personal passion into a community building initiative…
Energy with Emma
Admittedly, I was rather disheartened when I was told 5 weeks ago I was to be furloughed. However, a British heatwave and constant reminders from envious and overworked friends soon pushed me to make the most of this time off. In the time I’ve had off, I’ve worked on self-development, focused on my health and wellbeing, and got stuck into some exciting side projects.
From the time I was able to eat my first green veggie, I’ve had a real passion for health and wellness. I trained as a swimmer for 12 years and did athletics for 5, whilst representing my school borough for netball, hockey, and cross-country. I have never struggled with finding the motivation or time to exercise, since it’s my passion, but it is something I’ve witnessed my friends experience.
So, in an attempt to motivate my friends and hold them accountable, I decided to create a holistic plan for each of them, covering nutrition, exercise and mindfulness practices, such as meditation and goal setting/journaling. Some of my top motivational book recommendations are: The Success Principles by Daniel Canfield, The 5 am Club by Robin Sharma and the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. My friends showed huge improvements in such a short space of time, both physically and mentally, that I decided to create an Instagram account (@energywithemma) – to help those outside of my friendship group, who are also struggling during lockdown.
After reading all the motivational books my Kindle could store, I decided it was time to up my game, and find a mentor. And it didn’t take me long to find one either. I am a huge believer in manifestation, and within a few days, I was in my Dad’s garden having a social-distancing BBQ, where a neighbour recommended their contact, Ash (a business owner four-times over with a great reputation as a business coach)! I connected with Ash the next day, and I couldn’t be happier.
As a result, we are now working on a COVID charity fundraising project, the UK United Challenge (the launch is pending so stay tuned). Essentially, the project will mimic an auction-like giveaway, where celebrities and brands can donate items or experiences. The public donates to the fund by purchasing tickets, where they will be entered into a prize draw, and the winners announced. Donations will be given to charities like Black Lives Matter, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and the Felix Project.
To sum up, being furloughed has been a total blessing. Being given the opportunity to work on myself, as well as get involved in side-projects that I otherwise wouldn’t have had the time for, has meant that I’m recharged with a new lease of motivation, for when I return to work.
