Who, what, when, where, why, how?
I am Dr Xanthe Angela Golenko (nee: Wood), daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend, colleague; Australian (by birth), French (by marriage).
I was born in August, 1967 and I have lived in Canberra, Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane (Australia), Inatori (Japan), Barcelona (Spain), Paris, Nantes (France).
In my life so far, I have been a gymnast, dancer, model, marketing and PR consultant, student, researcher, lecturer, mentor, and arts enthusiast.
On my 56th birthday I left my full-time position as an industry-based researcher in the aged care sector. I loved my work, but I felt mentally drained from a heavy workload, excessive pressure, and challenging circumstances. I was becoming mentally and physically unwell and eventually, I burnt out. I had nothing left, and I knew something needed to change.
So, I have set out on a mission to transform my life into one that is more joyful and fulfilling. For me, that involves reconnecting with creativity, learning and relearning, exploring new places or old places from a new perspective, and contributing to the greater good.
As part of this mission, I have created this blog is to share my transformation process including milestones, impactful experiences, meaningful connections and deep reflections. It is highly personal and somewhat indulgent as I explore my own identity, through reminiscing about experiences in my life and drawing connections to who I am now.
In addition, I talk with others who I find truly inspirational and share their stories and insights. I also provide links to courses, workshops, shops, markets, studios, websites, writers and books that inspire me.
In doing so, I hope that I will understand how to redesign my life, and build in more meaning and purpose. I also hope that it may inspire others who want to explore their own identity and find ways to add meaning and fulfilment to their lives.