In a world driven by goals, deadlines, and societal expectations, Sree Lakshmy offers a fresh perspective on balancing ambition with introspection. This episode of Conversations with K, where we celebrate your dreams and journeys in Dubai, spotlights Sree Lakshmy, an art director and spiritual seeker who has redefined success by prioritizing self-discovery.
Breaking Norms to Forge a Creative Path
Hailing from a conservative South Indian family where engineering and medicine were the norm, Sree embarked on a bold journey into fashion and media—a move considered unconventional in her circles. Supported by parents who valued art, she nurtured her creative spirit from an early age. However, proving the legitimacy of her career choice required was not without its challenges.
“I juggled demanding corporate roles managing multiple brands alongside passion projects on weekends. While externally thriving, the relentless pace took a toll on Sree's physical and mental health. “I was overworked but unfulfilled,” she recalls. It was a wake-up call that forced her to reevaluate her life.
The Transformative Pause
Sree's decision to leave the corporate world and transition to freelancing wasn’t the immediate fix she had hoped for. “I thought quitting would solve everything, but I was left with a void,” she shares candidly. Mental health struggles, including anxiety and depression, became new battles to face. Traditional therapy provided temporary relief, but the answers lay within.
Spirituality, a practice she had been exposed to since childhood, emerged as her anchor. Revisiting meditation and spiritual practices became her pathway to healing. “Spirituality isn’t about instant Zen or happiness,” Sree explains. “It’s like peeling back layers of an onion—tears included—but it leads to clarity and growth.”
Embracing the Feminine Energy
Central to Sree’s journey has been rediscovering and celebrating her feminine energy, described in astrology as "Venusian energy." This shift involved stepping away from societal expectations and prioritizing self-love. “Women often over-give, losing themselves in the process,” Sree notes. By embracing her own energy, she found not only healing but also creative reinvigoration.
This philosophy resonates deeply with Kashesh, who adds, “Balance is a myth. It’s about knowing when to embrace your feminine or masculine energy based on the situation.” Both women emphasize the importance of fluidity and adaptability in balancing roles, whether as a professional, caregiver, or creative force.
Finding Identity in Creativity
As Sree continues her journey, she aims to establish a distinctive visual identity in her work. “I want people to recognize my creations and say, ‘That’s Sree’s work.’” Beyond professional aspirations, she is also delving into writing, journaling her experiences with past-life regression and spiritual growth, with the dream of authoring a book in the future.
Her journey is intertwined with Dubai’s vibrant culture. Born and raised in the city, Sree sees it as a dynamic space that nurtures creativity. “Dubai is like a melting pot of cultures. From art exhibitions to unique neighborhoods like Alserkal and Al Seef, it’s a constant source of inspiration.”
Final Reflections
Sree defines her story as a shift towards feminine energy, self-love, and acceptance. Her advice for women is simple yet profound: celebrate yourself and your journey. This conversation is a powerful reminder that success isn’t solely about achievements. It’s about pausing, reflecting, and aligning with your true self—a journey that Sree Lakshmy continues to embrace, inspiring others to do the same.