Johanna Ljunggren
INTERVIEW
Writer &
Creative Culture Consultant
“Despite my introverted nature, I recognize that true growth often requires stepping into unfamiliar territories and engaging with people and ideas that stretch my current perspectives.”
EVA & JOHANNA
DATE: 07 JUNE 2024
STOCKHOLM
YOUR IDEAL WAY TO START YOUR DAY?
Ideally, I wouldn’t schedule meetings on workdays before 11 a.m. My mornings would start with a mental check-in, followed by coffee and some physical activity, like a walk or yoga session. After that, I’d have breakfast and spend some time writing, capturing the fresh thoughts of the morning. I’d then catch up on emails while still on flight mode to minimize distractions.
On non-workdays, my mornings would follow a similar pattern but without the work-related tasks. I’d enjoy spending time outdoors in my garden, planning meals, or simply sitting with my thoughts. The ultimate treat would be the luxury of writing without interruptions.
However, I am not rigid in my work life and can still find joy in structured mornings. Discovering meaningful micro-moments is a part of my daily practice, and these surprises often reveal the beauty of everyday life.
WHEN DO YOU FEEL CREATIVELY MOST FULLFILLED?
While I deeply appreciate most of the assignments I work on, whether as a creative consultant or writer, true creative fulfillment comes from working on projects that extend beyond products or brand communities. It's when I can delve into themes that resonate with me personally and allow my imagination to flow freely that I feel most fulfilled. Navigating this balance is crucial. I entered the fashion industry with a passion for the blend of fantasy and escapism, this is over 3 decades ago, a lot has happened on the way. I've come to realize that an excess of this can be detrimental to mental health and can lead to the overproduction of creativity, which isn't always beneficial.
I’m not sure what the world needs is another creative. We need the merger of spheres. Yes, art can enlighten, awaken, and question, but we should also actively change the systems failing humanity. It is THE makeover of our time. I’m increasingly convinced that society needs more leaders, doctors, scientists, economists, technology experts, and, yes, artists who can challenge the stories we live by. All voices and cultures must be heard and respected in this process.
Meditating on this idea excites me and inspires my creative process, as it aligns my work with a broader purpose and societal needs.
HOW DO MOVE THROUGH MENTAL OR CREATIVE BLOCKS?
Cooking and spending time outdoors, (although the Swedish winters has yet to seduce me), are great ways to clear my mind. When I feel blocked, I can step on my yoga mat to move or write my thoughts down to process them. It´s like brushing your teeth, not very romantic at all, just practices I have come to love. Enrolling in courses on topics like sustainability, social justice, and the environment helps too. Stepping outside my personal realm to learn about the broader world and its beings often provides the fresh perspective I need.
“Stepping outside my personal realm to learn about the broader world and its beings often provides the fresh perspective I need.”
JOHANNA LJUNGGREN
WHAT DOES GROWTHMEAN TO YOU?
Growth means continuously evolving and expanding my understanding of myself and the world around me. It’s about seeking knowledge, embracing new experiences, and pushing the boundaries of my comfort zone. Personal growth also involves developing deeper connections with others and contributing positively to the community.
The irony is that I am very shy, so I must really challenge myself to “step out.” Despite my introverted nature, I recognize that true growth often requires stepping into unfamiliar territories and engaging with people and ideas that stretch my current perspectives. This journey of growth is both personal and collective, aiming to enrich my life while making a meaningful impact on those around me.
WHAT RESOURCES, TOOLS AND PRACTISES WORK FOR YOU TO SUPPORT YOUR GROWTH?
Books, online courses, and workshops are invaluable resources that provide new insights and knowledge. Practicing mindfulness through meditation and yoga helps maintain mental clarity and emotional balance. Regular writing and journaling are essential tools for self-reflection and personal growth, allowing me to process my thoughts and experiences.
Additionally, engaging in meaningful conversations with others fosters both personal and professional development. Over the last ten years, I have been fortunate to meet some exceptional friends. When I doubt myself, I look at the people in my life and think, "I must have done something right, as these life-loving, fun, and crazy individuals are now part of my everyday life." This support network reminds me of my worth and the positive influence I have, making me feel very lucky and grateful.
WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY READING?
I am currently reading a mix of books that touch on various aspects of life. The Nigerian poet and author Ben Okri, Jane Hirshfield, Elif Shafak, and Salman Rushdie provide literary inspiration and insights. I'm also exploring the teachings of movement master Bob Cooley.
In addition to books, I enjoy publications like Beyond the Noise, Emergence Magazine, and Atmos, which offer thought-provoking articles and perspectives on various topics.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
I find pride complex because it’s essential to acknowledge one’s achievements, yet maintaining humility is crucial in today’s world. Our civilization’s progression often feels disconnected from nature’s essence. We've grown to dislike the way humans have evolved in what we call the civilized and cultured world. Joseph Campbell's "hero's quest" has become our way of understanding our place here. We strive to discover our inner goddesses, gods, or icons in everything we do. Alternatively, we immerse ourselves in nature, not out of respect, but by seeking refuge in forms and figures giving them human characteristics. Then we become wild and uncontrollable and often seek to escape into experiences that disconnect us from ourselves. I believe that we should focus less on glorifying these mythical inner strengths and public figures and, instead, strive to become the best versions of ourselves as human beings. The last time I looked in the mirror, I wasn't Venus, Lakshmi, or a tree. I was Aurea Johanna, born in Ecuador, living in Sweden and a citizen of the world.
Globally, people fight daily for their right to be recognized as human beings. So, for those of us who move about freely, maybe we should focus on channeling and honoring our humanness. I genuinely admire individuals who can significantly impact without being in the spotlight and conduct their work under the radar. Despite this, I am proud of the ways I strive to understand and integrate the cycles of the natural world into my life and work. You know, it's a process for me to enjoy my accomplishments. I am my own worst critic.
WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON?
I have recently launched Food For Thought Retreats with Charlotte Manning, a long-held dream that combines ecology, storytelling, culinary arts, and movement with vital topics like climate decline and social justice. These retreats offer a unique space for people to explore significant ideas beyond the drama of the self, encouraging deeper connections with the world.
Additionally, I am working on an article series about waste colonialism in Ghana and plan to finish it this summer. I’m also excited about creating engaging stories for Faith, Love, and Hope, and aspiring to write more in general. With FLH, I allow myself to have fun and tap into the original passion that led me into the fashion business in the first place.
WHAT INSPIRES YOUR CURRENT WORK?
Silence and the ability to let my thoughts flow uninterrupted are my primary sources of inspiration. While external imagery and texts used to fuel my creativity, I now find that engaging in simple daily tasks like cooking, gardening, or walking allows me to step out and connect more deeply with the world around me. This shift may be a combination of growing up and the excess of content we are fed every day.
By immersing myself in these quiet activities, I can cultivate a space for reflection and creativity that is not influenced by the constant stream of external stimuli. This approach helps me focus on what truly matters and infuses my work with a sense of authenticity and groundedness.
WHAT CHALLENGE(S) ARE YOU CURRENTLY FACING?
Balancing my passion for my work with the need for solitude is a significant challenge. The constant demand for attention in the business world can be overwhelming, prompting a desire to withdraw and find peace away from it all.
HOW WILL YOU OVERCOME THIS CHALLENGE(S)?
By growing vegetables, herbs and cooking, I can find a sense of grounding. This is my starting point and where I move from. Gardening in my 50s has become the retail therapy I engaged in during my 30s. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures to overcome challenges; sometimes, it's about simple, consistent actions. If people knew the turbulent waters I have already conquered, they’d understand my resilience, he he—though that’s a story for another time.
“By immersing myself in these quiet activities, I can cultivate a space for reflection and creativity that is not influenced by the constant stream of external stimuli. ”
JOHANNA LJUNGGREN
YOUR MORNING AND/OR NIGHTTIME RITUALS?
My morning rituals involve a mental check-in, coffee, physical activity, and writing. These activities help set a positive tone for the day and keep me centered. In the evenings, I enjoy unwinding with a book, meditation, or a quiet walk to reflect on the day and prepare for restful sleep. I am such a bore! Though every so often I call a friend for a real “chinwag” session and talk gossip for hours on end.
Humor is a great “ritual” anytime. My husband says I'm a closet comedian, encouraging me to switch to that side and stop being so serious. However, comedian me is what we call "krass" in Swedish. I won't bother translating that, but if you have milk chocolate in one corner and 80% raw bitter cacao in the other, my funny side is that cacao.
YOUR FAVOURITE WELLBEING / SELF-CARE PRODUCTS?
Self-care goes beyond nurturing oneself; it involves cultivating compassion that radiates outward. I am drawn to challenging the narratives that shape our lives, moving away from the commercialization of self-care by the wellness industry. To half-answer your question, I rotate products due to my work, and I try to support the brands I work with while also endorsing independent creators. This approach allows me to explore a variety of styles, self-care products and practices.
WHAT RELAXES YOU? HOW DO YOU CALM YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM?
Cooking, gardening, and spending time outdoors are my go-to activities for relaxation. Mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga also help calm my nervous system. Engaging in creative hobbies and spending time with loved ones provides a sense of peace and fulfillment.
WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE FUTURE?
New beginnings excite me. However, I believe that although a new beginning is imminent, beforehand, there will also be an end. In my opinion, we are at the inception of that ending, and the outcome will depend on how we act. This transitional period is filled with potential and opportunity. The prospect of redefining our paths and creating meaningful change inspires me to contribute positively to the future. It's a chance to innovate, grow, and build a more compassionate and sustainable world.
“ Self-care goes beyond nurturing oneself; it involves cultivating compassion that radiates outward.”
CONNECT WITH JOHANNA:
@IN-AUREA
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