The Power of Incremental Upgrades: How Small Changes Create a Thriving Life and Creative Business

Hey, it’s Kat (Ekaterina Popova)! In this episode, I’m sharing how small, intentional upgrades have helped me build a more fulfilling and sustainable life and creative business. From moving into bigger spaces and setting better boundaries to learning when to say no to misaligned opportunities, I’ve realized that real growth isn’t about overnight success—it’s about the small, consistent changes that add up over time. I’ll also talk about why a holistic approach is key—success isn’t just about business, it’s about nourishing all areas of life: creativity, health, relationships, and mindset. Plus, I’ll share how making space for the right opportunities has led to more ease, freedom, and alignment in my career. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to change everything at once—just start with one small upgrade.   Sponsored by Create U This episode is brought to you by Create U, my micro-learning platform designed for artists who want to grow their careers with bite-sized, actionable courses. Whether you're looking to improve your creative practice, build a stronger brand, or learn how to sell your work, Create U gives you the tools to take the next step—one small upgrade at a time. Start learning today at https://www.createu.co/.   Takeaways Small, sustainable changes lead to a thriving life and business. Growth isn’t about one big leap—it’s about small, intentional upgrades. Creating a supportive environment (physically and mentally) enhances creativity. A holistic approach—nurturing health, relationships, and mindset—is essential. True success includes career fulfillment, creativity, and self-care. Learning to say no to the wrong opportunities makes space for the right ones. Investing in yourself, even in small ways, leads to long-term success. Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming—start with one upgrade at a time.   Sound Bites "Growth happens step by step. You don’t have to change everything at once." "True nourishment isn’t just about food—it’s about creativity, relationships, and fulfillment." "What’s one small upgrade you can make today?"   This episode is for anyone who wants to build a thriving, sustainable life and creative career without burnout. Let me know what small upgrade you're making this week—DM me on Instagram or share your thoughts in a review!   Explore Micro-Learning on Create U at https://www.createu.co/.

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Art & Cocktails: Exploring the World of Contemporary Art, Creativity, Business, and Inspiration Join host Ekaterina Popova, artist and founder of Create! Magazine, as she uncorks the vibrant and multifaceted world of contemporary art, creative entrepreneurship, mindset, and creativity one episode at a time. Welcome to "Art & Cocktails," a podcast where artists, creatives, dreamers, and artpreneurs gather to share their journeys and their art over their favorite drinks. Building on the success of the "Create!" podcast, Ekaterina steers the artistic conversation towards more intimate, heart-to-heart discussions that fuel the spirit and inspire the artist's soul. Tune in for insightful, honest discussions with leading artists, curators, writers, coaches, leaders, and artpreneurs who not only share their journeys in the creative world but also enjoy a "fireside chat" over a glass of wine or a cup of tea. This podcast offers a rich blend of inspiration, art business insights, and the simple joy of sipping your favorite beverage while discussing what lights your heart on fire. Pour your favorite drink into a beautiful cup, get comfy, and settle down for a session of "Art & Cocktails" each week. Let's celebrate the artist in all of us with a toast to creativity and the limitless possibilities it brings to our lives.