JP Women Who Inspire: Sandra Cannon

xx Jane

We asked Sandra a few questions so that you can get to know her, and we are so excited to share a little bit about a woman who inspires us:

Tell me a little bit about what you do.

I am an Interior Designer. Just saying that reminds me that I followed my dreams. This is all I ever wanted to be. But in all honestly, I think of my “Job” as living my life to its fullest potential, my personal best…. and within this creative industry I am I doing that.

What inspires you?

I have always found inspiration everywhere. The obvious places, beautiful spaces, and travel etc. but really I've always thought that I am most inspired by other people and the way they tell a story or describe something or share an experience. And I also identify patterns in everything, which brings fresh ideas to the start of any new creative opportunity…. lines on a highway, railings on a staircase or candy in a jar.

What is one great piece of advice you received?

I love advice. I remember being younger and always wanting someone to tell me what was further down the road …places and experiences I couldn’t see or imagine. So have I received loads of life changing advice! Ask, Listen, Absorb. But I thought to share something that stays with me and guides my whole being, the way good advice always does. Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote this:

To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children; to earn the approbation of honest citizens and ensure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give of one’s self; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived- This is to have succeeded.

Who are your greatest influences?

Creative leaders in many fields have influenced me for years. Influence falls into categories of what I need in a moment, and somehow that's how every project starts…..Maya Angelou, Kelly Wearstler, music, the list goes on. But to be honest the most important inspiration source comes from my deepest relationships. My Husband Tad, my children Tab and Jennings and my sister and my friends that were brought into my life to be my family.  

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the relationships that I have formed and grown over the course of my life, both personally and professionally.

What is one challenge you've experienced that has led to growth?

Challenges are opportunities, but they arrive to the party in costume…. I keep my eyes open and really my mind and know that it's worth walking through, not around, because on the other side you change for the better. At this point I have experienced this many times and can honestly say it is worth every minute spent growing into the next best version of myself. 

Is there anything you'd like to share about your journey to where you are now?

My journey is outlined above! 

How do you make time to recharge?

I recharge daily- I spend time early in the morning at home, I spend time with family and friends, I invest in my creative work, and I mentally check in with my Personal Best at the end of each day. I also read and re- read a book called The Four Agreements pretty regularly.

How do you hope to inspire and uplift others?

I hope to inspire and uplift others by consistently being who I am everyday. I believe with my whole mind and soul when humans consistently stay true to themselves they live life with great experiences, and that what its all about!…. it's not always the easiest choice but when you do, day after day you start to understand that you have the ability to do that with other people and you create community that gives you the added strength and support to stay consistent.

Where is your happy place?

I spend time happily at my home, around a mountain, lake, and the American West.

Do you have anything fun on the horizon?

I believe in Horizons, and with humble gratitude I creatively move towards those inspiring lines!