Tag: creative journey

The Ones Who Shaped Me

The Movies That Shaped Me: A Hero Forged in Stories

Mell D'Clute
A retro 1980s-style movie-poster illustration of SuperMell standing confidently at the center, wearing her black superhero suit with a purple “M” emblem, purple gloves, boots, belt, and glasses. Warm golden light glows behind her as symbolic motifs from beloved childhood films float around her: a giant metallic robot hand, a glowing red amulet, an open book radiating light, an old treasure map with a key and coin, and distant railroad tracks lit by a small flashlight. Diana the black cat with a white chest tuft sits at her feet, looking up at the magical symbols. The overall mood is nostalgic, heroic, and dreamlike, with sparkling cosmic light surrounding the scene.

Why Stories Shape Us

It’s probably no surprise to anyone reading my blog that I’ve always loved stories on the screen. Whether it’s cartoons, sitcoms, compelling TV, or the big screen—visual storytelling has always spoken to me. As an undiagnosed ADHD kid, watching movies was much easier than reading (hello, wandering mind). These are the movies that shaped me.

The Iron Giant — Choosing Who You Want to Be

This movie was absolutely terrific. The animation style (2D really should make a comeback!), the characters, the story—all very real to me.

A brief description of this movie:

In this animated adaptation of Ted Hughes’ Cold War fable, a giant alien robot (Vin Diesel) crash-lands near the small town of Rockwell, Maine, in 1957. Exploring the area, a local 9-year-old boy, Hogarth, discovers the robot, and soon forms an unlikely friendship with him. When a paranoid government agent, Kent Mansley, becomes determined to destroy the robot, Hogarth and beatnik Dean McCoppin (Harry Connick Jr.) must do what they can to save the misunderstood machine.

What resonated deeply with me was the unlikely friendship of a boy who had a vivid imagination with a giant metal robot who couldn’t remember anything about himself. The characters were well-thought out, and seemed very realistic to me for a time period movie.

Absolutely my favourite line in the whole movie is when Hogarth tells the robot: “You are who you choose to be.” Boom! Mic drop. That one line shaped me. It doesn’t matter what your circumstances are or your surroundings—you get to decide who you are, no one else!

And who doesn’t tear up when the Iron Giant decides to be Superman and sacrifices himself to save everyone? Certainly not me, as I continue to cry a lot at that part.

The Secret of NIMH — Courage in Darkness

I think this has to be my all-time favourite animated movie. I’ve seen it hundreds of times and still find the story and characters quite compelling. There’s no doubt Don Bluth was a freaking genius of an animator, and this was his masterpiece as far as I’m concerned.

The plot:

Mrs. Brisby (Elizabeth Hartman), a widowed mouse, must move her children out of their home in a field before the local farmer starts plowing. Unable to leave because her son is ill, Mrs. Brisby seeks the help of nearby rats, who have heightened intelligence after being the subjects of scientific experiments. She receives an unexpected gift from the elder rat, Nicodemus (Derek Jacobi). Soon Mrs. Brisby is caught in a conflict among the rats, jeopardizing her mission to save her family.

This movie began my interest in animal rights and I fully credit it for introducing me to the dark realities of animals being cruelly used in laboratory experiments. This movie started my whole mentality around animals and how much I hate how humans treat them, eventually even becoming a vegetarian for my New Year’s resolution in 1997. It still sickens me that we use them in this manner. I mean, I think—by now—we know how cosmetics affect us. What’s the point in causing rabbits to go blind by spraying it in their eyeballs? They don’t have tear ducts. It’s just cruel.

I think what I also enjoyed a lot about this movie was the voice of Mrs. Brisby. She was sheepish and not quite sure of herself when talking, but her actions certainly spoke louder than her words ever could. She’d clearly sacrifice her own life to save her children, and cared enough about the rats to decide to help them when she learned NIMH was coming to the farm. I still bawl my eyes out when she thinks she’s lost her kids to the mud. This was the most emotional movie I have ever experienced, and I deeply resonated with it.

The NeverEnding Story — Surviving the Swamp of Sadness

I know some of these movies I’ve mentioned before in some other posts. This one tops the list as one of my all-time favourite live-action movies.

On his way to school, Bastian (Barret Oliver) ducks into a bookstore to avoid bullies. Sneaking away with a book called “The Neverending Story,” Bastian begins reading it in the school attic. The novel is about Fantasia, a fantasy land threatened by “The Nothing,” a darkness that destroys everything it touches. The kingdom needs the help of a human child to survive. When Bastian reads a description of himself in the book, he begins to wonder if Fantasia is real and needs him to survive.

Can you guess why this movie affected me deeply? A kid who loses himself in books and imaginary worlds to escape the harsh reality of his life felt so deeply personal to me that it was almost like I was Bastian. He has it pretty rough: his mom died, his dad’s on his case to face responsibilities and keep his feet on the ground, he’s getting bullied, and he’s having issues with school. Except for the dead mother, this was me as a kid!

Every single time I watch this movie, I gain new insights into it that I didn’t see before. As an adult, rewatching it hits even harder. Fantasia was a direct reflection of his life at that point. Everything was symbolic. Losing Artax in The Swamp of Sadness was a direct link to him losing his mother and the depression that took place after. The Nothing was symbolic of him losing his imagination and the G’mork was essentially his father. The whole conversation between Atreyu and G’mork was the best scene:

G’mork: Fantasia has no boundaries.

(A storm grows closer to the city, slowly shaking it to pieces… Rocks fall here and there.)

Atreyu: That’s not true. You’re lying.

G’mork: Foolish boy. Don’t you know anything about Fantasia? It’s the world of human fantasy. Every part , every creature of it, is a piece of the dreams and hopes of mankind. Therefore, it has no boundaries.

(There’s a crash and more rocks fall.)

Atreyu: But why is Fantasia dying then ?

G’mork: Because people have begun to lose their hopes and forget their dreams. So the nothing grows stronger.

Atreyu: What is the nothing ?!

G’mork: It’s the emptiness that’s left. It’s like a despair, destroying this world. And I have been trying to help it.

Atreyu: But why ?

G’mork: Because people who have no hopes are easy to control. And whoever has control has the power.

So much symbolism in that conversation. I deeply felt connected to the story and the character of Bastian.

The Goonies — Misfits and Found Family

They just don’t make movies anymore like they used to, do they? The Goonies and various other movies of the 1980s were not only geared for kids, but adults found them equally entertaining. The Goonies is one of those timeless classics that had a profound impact on me. The story goes:

Old-fashioned yarn about a band of adventurous kids who take on the might of a property developing company which plans to destroy their home to build a country club. When the children discover an old pirate map in the attic, they follow it into an underground cavern in search of lost treasure but come up against plenty of dangerous obstacles along the way.

Full of excitement and adventure, danger and intrigue, and a sense of magic that timeless stories always seem to have. I continue to enjoy watching it to this day. It was my introduction to Sean Astin (who also played my favourite character in Lord of the Rings). I loved how this small group of misfits found a sense of community by trying to survive both the Fratellis and the various booby traps along the way. Very funny, very exciting. Always a classic and one I never fail to watch whenever I get the chance. I always wanted to be one of the Goonies…

Stand By Me — Truth, Trauma, and Growing Up

Yes, I definitely mentioned this movie before in my The Ones Who Shaped Me post about Wil Wheaton, but the movie deserves a shout out on this post as well. The plot:

After learning that a stranger has been accidentally killed near their rural homes, four Oregon boys decide to go see the body. On the way, Gordie Lachance (Wil Wheaton), Vern Tessio (Jerry O’Connell), Chris Chambers (River Phoenix) and Teddy Duchamp (Corey Feldman) encounter a mean junk man and a marsh full of leeches, as they also learn more about one another and their very different home lives. Just a lark at first, the boys’ adventure evolves into a defining event in their lives.

I don’t think this brief description I pulled from Google does this movie justice. This movie made me interested in Wil Wheaton, and his costars as well. It was interesting how very different they all were from each other onscreen as characters, but also the actors really fit their characters to a tee. What resonated with me was the character of Gordie Lachance and how he was dealing with grief, being ignored by his mother, and bullied by his father. Unlike his brother—the athlete—he was the creative kid; the writer. His father didn’t understand any of that. It still breaks my heart knowing how close Wil Wheaton’s real life was to his character’s story. Nevertheless, I can’t say this movie didn’t profoundly affect me as a kid.

How These Stories Forged My Hero Path

I have always been an empathic type. I feel things very deeply and get affected by what I see onscreen more times than I care to admit. (Seriously, why do all cartoon movies have some sad thing that happens that makes me cry?!!) Through the various adventures I have seen through these movies, I transform into a different version of myself. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without the impact of these movies that I continue to enjoy to this day.

It’s true that every person you meet writes on the slate of who you are. You take a piece of them and add it to yourself. For me, I feel the same way about these stories and characters. Each of these movies—and countless others—have impacted me and shaped me in some way, shape, or form. Sometimes it’s a particular character, sometimes a line, or even the thrill of an exciting adventure—but there’s no doubt it has profoundly shaped who I’ve become.

Diana—The Fiercest Warrior Yet

I know for a fact that Diana likes to watch tv as well with me. I can always count on her laying on my lap, watching the screen with her head up. She absolutely loves cartoons—the sillier the better! I’ve seen her on more than a few occasions watching a scene with great interest. Even the last episode of Stranger Things caught her attention—she sat upright and watched with full focus. I don’t know if she likes any particular character or if any of them mean anything to her, but I do know she enjoys them as much as I do.

Final Thought

Empathy and a vivid imagination can go a long way in shaping who you are. These are just a few examples of some of the movies that shaped me. Each one taught me something about myself—that it’s okay to be shy, geeky, unsure of yourself. Despite these apparent “flaws”, you are who you choose to be. Once you accept who you are—and that you are in charge of your life—things get a whole lot easier to handle.

What are some of the stories that have shaped you in your life? Did any of mine impact you as much as it did me? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Hero in Progress

Levelling Up to Level 50: The Evolution of SuperMell

Mell D'Clute
SuperMell stands confidently in a black and purple superhero suit with a large “M” emblem on her chest, surrounded by glowing pixel-art icons representing her earned powers. Above her, pixelated text reads “LEVEL 50 — EVOLUTION UNLOCKED.” A warm halo of light forms behind her like a skill-tree ring. Diana the black cat with a white chest tuft sits proudly at her feet, next to a pixel “+50 XP” symbol. The background blends cosmic colors with subtle pixel texture, creating a nostalgic video-game level-up screen.

The Level-Up Moment

Today marks a major life milestone for me:

I have levelled up to 50!

Yes! You read that right. I am now 50. Wow! It seems like just yesterday I was turning 40. Honestly, the 40s were kind of a blur for me, as so much shitty things happened that I’m now very happy they are over and done with. Things are already starting to look up as I’m working to rebound from the terrible hit I took a few years ago. I’m hoping the 50s will be much better for me… But what do I get to look forward to? *Checks notes* Menopause… Time to get a colonoscopy… yay…?

When I was younger, I assumed 50 would officially make me an ‘old lady.’ Ha-ha! Do I feel like an old lady now that I have finally gotten there? Not really… I don’t feel as spry as I used to, and I don’t feel like an old hag either. In fact, I don’t really feel anything about 50… Which is weird, as usually I panic when I reach the milestones.

My Hero’s Origin Story (So Far)

Don’t worry… This will be brief.

From childhood, I learned to appreciate the finer things in life, like watching cartoons, playing with toys, and my vivid imagination, I found that I had a creative drive in me and really wanted to pursue something in that field—In fact, I still do!

The Depression Beast™ was introduced to me during and many years after I was bullied in a small town. (I honestly don’t like small towns. Too much gossip, and if someone decides they don’t like you, no one else is allowed to like you either.) At least that’s been my experience. I also went most of my life without officially being diagnosed with ADHD… which was the source of so many issues, particularly with school and concentrating. They didn’t know how to diagnose girls with it at the time—still don’t, really. I struggled in school, struggled with reading, and was an average student. Ritalin has changed so much for me in the last three years that I wish I had tried it so many years ago.

My adulthood was marred by the Depression Beast™, and its super-fun friend: Dr. Anxiety™. I made some very costly mistakes as a result of these monsters, including being on the wrong medications, a failed marriage, and not realizing how great I had it until I threw it all away. I’m still rebuilding from my mistake three or four years ago. I’m now on the right meds, the right dosage, and feel more optimistic about my future than I ever did before. Now I’ve got a better job than I had before, and am looking forward to moving in a couple of weeks.

For many years, that bullying haunted me. Now I’ve come to see it as my hero’s origin story. Every superhero has one. This just happens to be mine.

Plot Twists I Never Saw Coming

Dr. Anxiety is such a sinister villain. He arrives out of the blue and steers you in one weird direction or another. It seems to everyone around you like you’re impulsive and tend to make rash decisions. They don’t know how often Dr. Anxiety talks to you about it. How you ruminate on the thing for days, weeks, or even months or years.

The old Doc showed itself in my life when I decided out of the blue I wanted to get married—and didn’t seem to care who to. It told me I needed to be married by 30 or I wouldn’t prove to everyone that I’d be a success despite what they did to me. That marriage was brief and quite painful, but it made me realize a few things about myself:

  • I’m not suited for marriage, and much prefer being on my own with my cat.
  • I had some unresolved trauma that led me down that path.
  • I deserved better than this.
  • I am both the hero and the writer of my own story. I get to decide what path I choose.

At least, I thought I had learned those lessons. Dr. Anxiety and the Depression Beast showed up yet again when I turned 40, to yell at me to fix myself and my issues or I wouldn’t prove to everyone that I’d be a success. It’s when I went on the wrong medications, became lethargic, and the Trump thing really affected my mental health in not-so-good ways. I’m considering a lawsuit against him some day…

Anywho… the pressure built until the inevitable explosion, taking my job as the first casualty. Attempts to course-correct failed, even though the desire to do better was there. The losses stacked up—career, home, stability—leaving me back in Alberta in my parents’ basement, earning shit-pay and fading under the weight of the Depression Beast. Appetite vanished, pounds disappeared, and surrender felt dangerously close.

After awhile, I decided to see about getting on the right medications, and convinced a doctor to let me see a psychiatrist. This has worked out beautifully! The Depression Beast has now officially gone away on a trip hopefully far, far away. Dr. Anxiety still pops up every once in awhile to tell me things, but I’ve chosen to not care about proving myself to everyone anymore. I really am the hero of my own story.

But somewhere along the way, I met someone new—Lady Optimism™. I honestly never thought this creature existed due to the lies the Depression Beast and Dr. Anxiety told me. But she’s there! It’s really nice to have her in my life now.

Skills, Powers & Traits Earned Along the Way

It turns out I’ve earned more than scars along the way—I’ve collected superpowers. Through the stumbles and roadblocks, I have managed to discover some superpowers I didn’t know I had:

These are great powers to have. Sure, flying or running really fast would be cool, but how realistic are they?

What Comes Next on the Journey

I’ve decided not to get too much ahead of myself and enjoy things slowly, one moment at a time. I’ve told the Depression Beast and Dr. Anxiety to take a hike. I no longer care about having to prove to anyone that I am a success. I know I am a success. It was silly having those beliefs at all. Who cares what any of them think of me, if they even do! I haven’t seen any of them in the couple of decades since I graduated from high school, so they mean nothing to me. All that matters is what I think of me, and I’ve finally come to a point where I like me.

A real shift is taking place, and it’s nudging me toward trusting the Universe a little more—especially when those old monsters try to resurface. Letting go, rather than gripping tightly, was exactly what led to the new home appearing like a beacon in the fog. Call it synchronicity or intuition, but life seems to respond to the energy you put into it. Challenges can feel cruel… or they can be the training arcs that reveal the powers you never realized you had.

The Calmness of a Purr

Diana is just the best. She’s currently resting her head on my knee, laying beside me on the couch as I’m writing this. It’s as if she knows I’m writing about her now, as a soft, gentle purr is emitting from her. I don’t know if she knows what levelling up is, or age for that matter, but she still seems like the same sweet, playful, and destructive cat she’s always been. She and Lucy were two of the best decisions I ever made.

Final Thought

Levelling up doesn’t have to be a bad thing. In fact, often in video games, it’s seen as a good thing. You get new abilities, or more coins, or something. I’ve chosen to view aging as levelling up. The path before me was full of zigs and zags, but each one taught me something about myself and made me more resilient. Thanks for reading, for those who do. It’s appreciated.

What are some of the major shifts that have taught you more about yourself than you ever thought was possible? I’d love to hear all about it! Share your story in my comments, or comment on a post on social media.

The Ones Who Shaped Me

The Wheaton Effect: How One Hero Helped Me Unmask Myself

Mell D'Clute
SuperMell sits cross-legged on the floor of her softly glowing Command Centre, writing in a digital journal as a warm golden light radiates from a monitor behind her. The light forms a faint silhouette made of glowing words like “hope,” “courage,” and “writing.” Diana, her black cat, sits in her lap, eyes half-closed in contentment, as symbols of inspiration hover around them — a starship, a quill, and an open book.

Fandom Meets Inspiration

There’s one person I’ve mentioned a few times on my blog who’s had a huge influence on me — someone who deserves a post dedicated entirely to him. Not only have I been a fan of his since childhood, but his personal healing journeycontinues to inspire me.
That person is Wil Wheaton.

How I Was Introduced to Him

One of my all-time favourite animated movies — if not the favourite — was The Secret of N.I.M.H. The story was darker than most cartoons at the time, and to a young girl constantly surrounded by princesses and happily-ever-afters, it felt real.

Despite the talking animals, the story of a widowed mother trying to save her son — and ultimately her whole family — struck a deep chord with me. It was emotional, impactful, and beautifully performed. I later learned that Wil Wheaton voiced her older son, and that connection would stay with me.

Then came Stand By Me. A story about four boys searching for a dead body might sound like an odd favourite, but I’ve always been drawn to stories with emotional weight. I instantly related to Wheaton’s character, Gordie Lachance — shy, creative, and burdened with grief and self-doubt. Even as a kid, I could see that pain behind his eyes.

When I later learned that Wheaton brought parts of himself to that role, it made sense. His performance was both powerful and painfully human.

Star Trek and a Sense of Belonging

I didn’t start watching Star Trek: The Next Generation until Season 3. I’ll admit it — when it first aired, I thought Star Trek was “too nerdy.” But when I discovered Wil Wheaton was part of the cast, I decided to tune in — and that decision changed everything.

That was the start of my love for Star Trek. The show’s blend of humanity, exploration, and teamwork felt like family to me. I wouldn’t have noticed it at all if Wheaton hadn’t been there to draw me in — proof that sometimes fandoms find you right when you need them most.

The Great Depression

No, not the one from the 1930s — mine.

Growing up in a small town, I was bullied relentlessly — back when it was dismissed as “teasing” and never taken seriously. By junior high, I knew I was depressed, even if I didn’t yet have the language for it.

Star Trek: The Next Generation became my safe place. It aired in syndication after school every day, and for two hours, I could escape. The stories, the friendships, and the sense of hope gave me a reason to hold on. It showed me what healthy connection and belonging could look like, even when I felt isolated in real life.

When I couldn’t find work after high school, my depression deepened. I was trapped in the same town that hurt me, hearing classmates actively discourage people from hiring me. I survived by disappearing into Star Trek and superhero comics — worlds where people overcame impossible odds.

Those stories — and Wheaton’s presence in them — gave me hope when I had none.

WilWheaton.net

In the early days of the internet, I discovered Wil Wheaton’s blog, and I was instantly hooked. His writing was raw, honest, and often frustrated with the same world that had once cheered him. It made me feel seen.

As someone still processing years of bullying and trying to find my place in the world, it was incredibly healing to read a public figure be that vulnerable. I wasn’t alone anymore.

Because of Wil Wheaton, I started blogging too. I found that I could be more open online than in person. Over time, I realized how therapeutic it was — writing gave my pain shape and then set it free.

One day, I wrote a furious blog post about a junior-high bully who had haunted my thoughts for years. I poured out every detail, every resentment, every wound. When I finished, the obsession was gone. It was as if I’d exorcised him from my mind. That was the moment I realized writing could heal — a discovery that began with Wil Wheaton’s blog.

Wheaton’s Personal Healing Journey

When I read his memoir Just a Geek, I was going through my own personal struggles. His openness about regret and self-doubt was both humbling and motivating.

He wrote about his “Prove to Everyone” voice — that inner critic that demanded success to justify his choices. His was “Prove to everyone that quitting Star Trek was the right thing to do.” Mine was “Prove to everyone that I can be a success despite what they did to me.”

That drive led to a few bad decisions — including a marriage based more on fear than love — but seeing Wil’s honesty about his own missteps helped me forgive myself.

Years later, when he released Still Just a Geek, it hit even harder. By then, he’d opened up about his abuse and his path to recovery. Reading those words felt like closure — not only for him, but for the version of myself who first needed his example.

Just a Fan

I’m not a fangirl, exactly — more like a student. I see Wil Wheaton as a mentor in resilience and authenticity. As he’s learned to heal and speak openly about mental health, I’ve learned to accept my past and find meaning in it.

I’ve been successful before, but I didn’t recognize it through the fog of depression. Now, I’m rebuilding — one small step at a time — and I wouldn’t be where I am without the inspiration of his story.

Diana’s Wisdom

I’m not sure if Diana knows who Wil Wheaton is — but she’d probably approve. He’s an animal lover too, and his affection for his pets always warms my heart.

Diana, of course, believes all cats should have publicists and mental health advocates. 🐾 If they ever met, I think she’d purr in solidarity.

Final Thought

The impact Wil Wheaton has had on my life wasn’t small — it was seismic. From his performances to his writing to his advocacy for mental health, his honesty has helped shape who I am.

I hope he continues to heal and thrive — because through his courage, I learned how to unmask myself.

Command Centre Update

The Journey Evolves

Mell D'Clute
SuperMell sits at her glowing Command Centre desk, writing on a digital journal as soft holographic echoes of past adventures fade behind her. Diana, her black cat, sits nearby with golden eyes, nodding approvingly as if acknowledging this new chapter in the journey.

SuperMell’s Log: Time for a Change

I’m going to be changing the direction of this blog. Instead of writing every day, I’ll be writing when inspiration strikes. Lately, I’ve started to feel like this blog is more ChatGPT’s than mine. While it’s been an incredible creative partner — and some posts turned out beautifully — the process has begun to feel repetitive. I want this space to reflect my journey, not just a rhythm. It’s time to recalibrate.

What Changes?!!

Instead of weekly and daily themes, my posts will have categories. These categories are, in no particular order:

I think it’s necessary to change things so they make more sense, rather than writing posts for the sake of making sure there are posts. I want this site to be a labour of love from me to anyone who actually reads this site, rather than an AI-generated blog post.

My Personal AI Assistant

I’ve loved using ChatGPT to help shape this blog. The changes ahead are about direction, not disconnection. I’ll still use it to refine SEO, readability, and my usual visuals — including those SuperMell and Diana images that have become part of this blog’s identity. And when I hit a creative wall, I might still ask it for a spark — just as any writer bounces ideas off a trusted collaborator.

Changes?!! We Don’t Need No Stinking Changes!

Kidding, of course. There are personal reasons why I am making these changes. For that, I wish to tell you about what inspired me to do blogging in the first place: Wil Wheaton and his blog.

I was always a fan of his as an actor, but more so when I discovered his blog on the early days of the internet. It has served as the inspiration behind my own personal blog. I loved how open he was about his story and his troubles with mental health. It was extremely helpful to a shy and insecure person like myself, who had a huge history of being bullied as a kid, that someone as famous as him shared some of the same struggles I did. In a way, it made me feel less alone in this world.

These changes aren’t about walking away — they’re about coming home to my own voice. I’ve at time struggled with my own issues. I used blogging early on to try to sort out my emotions and thoughts and my healing journey. While some of those posts really resonated with some people, I found them to be a little too negative. So it was easy for me to come up with the concept of this blog, with the help of ChatGPT to help keep the narrative positive and superhero-inspired. It has just gotten to the point that it no longer feels like it’s my blog anymore, so I needed to change things up a bit.

Will Anything Be the Same?

Absolutely! I love the SuperMell persona — she’s become a symbol of strength and creativity for me. Someday I will learn how to sew and make my own costume so I can wear it proudly at Fan Expos and Comicons, and of course Halloween. And of course my sidekick, Diana the cat, will continue to have a prominent role here on these pages. I do love the geek culture posts and love the general message of this blog.

The whole purpose of my website was to try to make a web presence for myself in the hopes it helps market me to potential job hunters looking for an experienced and quirky graphic designer. But since the blog started, it has evolved more so into a whole other personal journey.

I have found some of the posts that were written by AI were quite great and it has indeed helped me to deal with some very important issues. It helped me get out of working for a toxic company owned by people who shouldn’t be running a business. It has helped me deal with some personal issues and I often turn to it for advice. So it’s not like I will be completely giving up my ChatGPT.

Diana’s Insight

As much as Diana loves consistency, she also loves authenticity. Sometimes I would look at her as I was copying and pasting the stories, and she’d be giving me this look like she was saying, “What are you actually doing?” She reminded me to find my own voice again. She’s purr-fection!

Final Thought

I hope you all will enjoy the changes moving forward. I don’t know how often I will be posting, but it definitely won’t be a daily thing anymore. It’s proving to be taking up too much of my time as it is, so the posts will be two or three a week, or whenever I feel inspired to write something. If you don’t miss a post, remember to subscribe to my blog. I will continue to share these posts on social media when I do post.

Thank you for following along on this journey — and for giving me a reason to keep growing, creating, and sharing. I don’t know how often I’ll post, but when I do, I promise it’ll be authentic and from the heart.

Live long and prosper. 🖖

Transferable Thursday

Command & Control: The Self-Management Superpower

Mell D'Clute
Comic book–style illustration of SuperMell seated confidently in the captain’s chair on a starship bridge. She wears a black costume with a bold purple “M” emblem, purple gloves, and a purple mask over her glasses. Around her, glowing displays project the words “Prioritize,” “Adapt,” and “Stay Steady,” symbolizing self-management skills. At her feet, Diana, a black cat with golden eyes and a small white chest patch, rests calmly. The scene represents command and control as a self-management superpower.

🖖 Taking the Helm

On the bridge of a starship, command and control isn’t just about steering the ship — it’s about steady leadership in the middle of chaos. For me, self-management is that same superpower. It’s the ability to stay calm, stay focused, and keep my mission on course even when things get turbulent.

⚡ What Self-Management Looks Like

In practice, my self-management skills show up as:

  • Prioritization → knowing what matters most and when to act.
  • Emotional regulation → keeping frustration from steering the day.
  • Consistency → building habits that support progress, even in small ways.
  • Adaptability → adjusting course when life throws surprises.

These aren’t just personal skills — they’re transferable superpowers I bring to creative and professional roles.

🔄 How I Built This Superpower

Self-management wasn’t something I mastered overnight. It grew out of trial and error, setbacks, and the need to adapt.

  • From setbacks → Working in roles that drained me taught me to create boundaries and protect my energy.
  • From detours → Time away from my career helped me see what I valued most and sharpened my priorities.
  • From learning → My Lean Six Sigma studies gave me practical tools for problem-solving, organization, and process thinking.
  • From reflection → Through journaling and writing, I discovered the patterns that helped me stay focused and the ones that derailed me.

Every challenge gave me part of the armour I wear now. Self-management is less about perfection and more about persistence — showing up again and again, adjusting course when I need to, and trusting myself to stay in command.

🚀 Why It Matters on the Frontier

As I navigate my career comeback mission, self-management is what keeps me steady. It means I can balance studying for my Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, working on passion projects, and maintaining my blog — all while managing daily life.

Self-management is the hidden framework behind every success. Without it, the ship drifts. With it, I can lead with clarity and confidence.

🐾 Diana’s Corner: Calm in the Chaos

Diana has a way of reminding me what command looks like in its simplest form. Whether she’s watching the world with calm curiosity or napping peacefully while the house buzzes with activity, she shows me that control starts from within.

✨ Final Thought

Command and control isn’t just for the bridge of a starship. It’s the self-management superpower we all carry — and it’s what keeps me steering forward with purpose.

💬 How do you practice command and control in your own life? Share your strategies in the comments — I’d love to learn from your toolkit.

Soft-Paw Sunday

Calm Before Launch: Finding Peace at the Edge of What’s Next

Mell D'Clute
Comic book–style illustration of SuperMell sitting calmly in a sci-fi rocket ship cockpit, wearing a black Nightwing-inspired costume with a purple “M” emblem, gloves, and mask. She rests her hands on glowing controls, looking serene and focused. Beside her, Diana the black cat with golden eyes and a white chest patch sits in the co-pilot seat wearing an astronaut helmet. A digital display shows “T-30:00” as stars and galaxies shine through the cockpit window, symbolizing calm anticipation before launch.

🌌 On the Edge of Something New

There’s a quiet stillness before every launch. It’s the moment when the engines are primed but haven’t yet ignited, when the path ahead feels both thrilling and unknown. That’s where I am right now—on the edge of what’s next, learning to hold peace in the waiting.

It’s easy to get caught up in urgency, to feel like you should already be moving at full speed. But I’m discovering that this in-between moment—the calm before launch—has its own kind of power. It’s where I can breathe, reflect, and trust that the preparation I’ve done will carry me forward when it’s time.

🌿 Finding Peace in Stillness

Peace doesn’t mean the absence of pressure. It means choosing not to let the pressure control me. For me, this looks like:

  • Breathing space → letting myself pause without guilt.
  • Journaling → capturing thoughts and fears so they don’t weigh me down.
  • Rituals of calm → soft lighting, music, or even simply sitting with Diana nearby.

These small choices become my anchor, keeping me steady as I prepare for the unknown frontier ahead.

🚀 Anticipation Before the Frontier

Anticipation is its own kind of energy. It can feel restless, like you’re holding your breath, waiting for the countdown. But I’m learning that anticipation isn’t only about the waiting — it’s also about building momentum.

For me, this means:

  • Visioning what’s ahead → picturing not just where I want to go, but who I want to become.
  • Naming the unknowns → acknowledging the fears so they don’t control me.
  • Channeling the excitement → using nervous energy as fuel instead of letting it overwhelm me.

The frontier feels big because it is big. But standing on its edge, with anticipation humming beneath the surface, reminds me that I’m ready for it — not because I have all the answers, but because I’ve learned to trust myself.

🐾 Diana’s Corner: The Expert in Calm

Diana doesn’t worry about frontiers. She curls up, closes her eyes, and surrenders fully to rest. Watching her reminds me that calm is a choice, not a luxury. If she can find peace in the middle of a busy day, so can I.

✨ Final Thought

Every journey needs momentum, but it also needs balance. The calm before launch isn’t wasted time—it’s the breath that makes the leap possible.

💬 How do you find peace when you’re on the edge of something new? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your rituals of calm.

Mission Monday

🚀 Ignition Sequence: Setting Goals That Spark Action

Mell D'Clute
Comic-book style illustration of SuperMell crouched in a launch stance, one hand pressed to the ground as glowing words—“Focus, Action, Spark, Resilience”—radiate outward in arcs of purple, gold, and orange energy. Beside her, Diana the black cat with a white chest patch and golden eyes mirrors her crouched stance, tail swishing as if ready to pounce. The scene glows with heroic, sci-fi-inspired energy, symbolizing ignition and momentum.

🔥 Introduction: Goals as Fuel

Every mission begins with an ignition sequence—a set of steps that build momentum, focus energy, and propel the hero forward. For me, setting goals isn’t about long lists or rigid checkboxes. It’s about finding the sparks that actually excite me enough to act.

When my goals are aligned with my passions, they don’t just sit on paper—they ignite movement.

🎯 The Spark Test

Not every goal deserves to become part of the mission log. Some ideas fizzle the moment they’re written down, while others glow like embers, refusing to die out.

I’ve learned to ask myself:

  • Does this excite me?
  • Will it move me closer to where I want to go?
  • Can I see myself taking the first step today?

If a goal passes this “spark test,” it’s worth fuelling.

🧭 Breaking Big Goals Into Launch Steps

A rocket doesn’t leap into space in one move—it lifts off through stages. My goals work the same way.

Big ambitions—like completing a course, building my portfolio, or finding the right job—become achievable when I break them down into launch steps: small, specific actions that build momentum.

Even tiny wins release enough energy to keep me moving.

🔄 Adjusting the Trajectory

Not every launch goes perfectly. Sometimes I need to adjust course mid-flight. Instead of scrapping the mission, I see it as re-aiming toward the target. Flexibility keeps the fire burning without letting setbacks extinguish it.

🐾 Diana’s Moment

Diana is an expert at sparks. She’ll set her sights on a toy, crouch low, and then—ignition sequence—launch herself across the room with laser focus. Watching her reminds me that once you know your goal, the right energy can turn planning into action in an instant.

🧠 Final Thought

Goals that spark action don’t come from obligation—they come from inspiration. When I focus on what excites me, break it down into steps, and stay flexible along the way, I find myself moving forward with more energy and purpose.

What sparks your next goal into action? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear what fuels you.

FunDay Friday

✨ Plot Twists & Power-Ups: Rewriting My Story With a Little Magic

Mell D'Clute
Comic-style illustration of SuperMell in a black and purple superhero suit with a stylized “M” on the chest, sitting at a desk and crossing out the words “JOB LOSS” in red ink on an open book. On the opposite page, she writes the glowing golden phrase “New Opportunity Unlocked” in elegant script. Diana, her black cat with a white chest patch and golden eyes, sits beside her, watching the transformation.

🎭 Introduction: Every Hero’s Story Has Twists

If life were a straight line, it wouldn’t make for a very interesting read. The best stories—whether on the page, on screen, or in a comic—have plot twists that force the hero to adapt, grow, and find new strengths.

I’ve had my fair share of unexpected turns. Some were exciting opportunities, others felt like being thrown into a boss fight without enough health points. But here’s the thing—I’ve learned I can rewrite the way I see those moments, and that’s where the magic happens.

✏️ From Setback to Side Quest

Not every obstacle is a dead end. Sometimes, it’s just a detour that sends you somewhere you didn’t know you needed to go.

Job changes, creative slumps, and even personal challenges have all become “side quests” in my story. They’ve taught me new skills, introduced me to unexpected allies, and built the resilience I’ll need for future battles.

💪 Unlocking the Power-Ups

Every good hero learns new abilities along the way. In my life, the “power-ups” have been things like:

  • Learning how to adapt quickly
  • Building confidence through small wins
  • Developing systems that work for me
  • Trusting my creative instincts

Some of these came from hard-earned experience. Others showed up like surprise bonus items in a game—exactly when I needed them, much like the strengths that hide in plain sight in everyday challenges.

🪄 Rewriting the Story

The magic isn’t in pretending the hard parts didn’t happen. It’s in reframing them as part of a bigger arc. When I look back at my own plot twists, I try to see them not as roadblocks but as necessary chapters that set up the next big win.

For more tips on turning challenges into opportunities, this article on reframing negative experiences offers practical, actionable advice.

🐾 Diana’s Moment

Diana is a master of the unexpected plot twist. One minute she’s curled up in a sunbeam, the next she’s racing through the house like she’s chasing invisible enemies. Her energy shifts remind me that surprise and spontaneity can make life more interesting—and sometimes that’s the magic you need.

🧠 Final Thought

Plot twists can feel overwhelming in the moment, but when you give yourself the power to reframe them, they become some of the most important parts of your story.

If you could rewrite one chapter of your life, what magic would you add? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear your twist.

Skill Builder Saturday

My Creative Lab: Learning by Making

Mell D'Clute
Comic-style illustration of SuperMell sitting at a creative workstation in her black and purple superhero costume with a stylized "M" on her chest. She sketches flames on a digital tablet, surrounded by design tools, fabric swatches, and superhero-style prototypes. Behind her is a “Progress Tracker” chart pinned to the wall. Diana, her black cat with a small white chest patch and golden eyes, sits on a stack of sketchbooks, watching her work with curiosity.

🔬 Introduction: My Kind of Classroom

Some people learn best by reading. Others by watching. Me? I learn best by doing—and sometimes by doing badly, then tweaking until something clicks.

Over the years, I’ve realized that my creative process is less about mastering techniques from the get-go and more about diving in, experimenting, and adjusting as I go. It’s part curiosity, part chaos, and 100% mine.

Welcome to my creative lab.

🎨 Building Skills the Messy Way

There’s a kind of pressure that comes with the phrase “You should know this by now.” I’ve said it to myself more times than I can count. But the truth is, real skill-building rarely looks like a straight line.

I don’t just want to consume knowledge—I want to test it, try it, mess it up, and figure out what works for me.

Whether it’s:

—I’m not just gaining skills. I’m developing instincts. Discovering how I think, and what tools or workflows click with my brain.

💡 Creative Work Is Skill Building

For a long time, I separated creative play from “real work.” But the truth is, every time I make something—no matter how rough or silly—I’m building something else behind the scenes:

All essential skills, not just for art and design—but for working in teams, managing projects, and navigating change.

I’ve come to believe that making things is never a waste of time, even if the end result gets scrapped. There’s always value in the process. In fact, the process is often where the magic happens.

🐾 Diana’s Take

Diana, my ever-curious assistant, definitely has a hands-on (or paws-on) approach too.

If I leave a new project open on the table—whether it’s a sketchbook, a tablet, or a set of print mockups—she’s there in seconds, sniffing, stepping, or curling up right in the middle of my workspace. Like she’s saying, “This is important. Let’s sit with it.”

Sometimes, she reminds me to slow down and be with what I’m making, rather than racing to the finish line. After all, experiments aren’t rushed—they’re observed. Diana’s a natural in the creative lab.

🧪 Final Thought

Skill building isn’t always about formal training or step-by-step tutorials. Sometimes, it’s about rolling up your sleeves, trying something new, and seeing what happens. Learning by making means trusting that action leads to insight—even when things don’t go as planned.

So tell me:
What’s the last thing you made just to see if you could?
Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s happening in your creative lab.

FunDay Friday

Fandom Made Me a Creator: A Geek’s Origin Tale

Mell D'Clute
Comic-style illustration of SuperMell, dressed in a Nightwing-inspired black suit with a purple “M” emblem and purple glasses, sitting cross-legged on a bedroom floor surrounded by comic books. She gazes upward thoughtfully at five glowing thought bubbles showing childhood inspirations: Robin, a chalkboard drawing of Hordak, Teen Titans and Flash comic covers, the TNG crew, and Wil Wheaton writing at a desk. Her black cat, Diana—with golden eyes and a small white chest patch—playfully reaches toward one of the bubbles. The cozy room features nostalgic toys and a glowing lava lamp.

A Cape, a Chalkboard, and a Crush

Since before I knew what creativity really meant, I was already swimming in it.

I fell in love with superheroes before I could even pronounce the word. My very first crush? Robin, the Boy Wonder. Specifically the version from reruns of the 1960s Batman show (Burt Ward) and the Super Friends cartoon. As a kid, I honestly thought they were the same person—live action and animation? No difference! Robin’s enthusiastic “Holy [whatever], Batman!” didn’t sound like a catchphrase to me—it sounded like swearing. Serious rebel energy. I was smitten.

But my creative awakening didn’t come from comic books alone.

It came one day when I picked up a piece of chalk.

Drawing Hordak and the Power of Imagination

When I was about eight, I drew Hordak—the villain from She-Ra—on a small chalkboard. And in that moment, something clicked. To this day I have no idea if it actually looked like Hordak, but in my memory, it was perfect. That tiny moment became huge. I remember thinking: I want to do this forever. I want to create. That was the beginning of my artistic origin story.

A Comic Book Catalyst

When I was 13, I had my first seizure. I was diagnosed with epilepsy and spent some time in the hospital—scared, confused, and unsure of what the future would hold. While there, I was given two comic books that would change my life: Secret Origins Annual #3 (1989) featuring the Teen Titans—specifically Robin’s journey as Dick Grayson—and The Flash Annual #3 (1989), which centred on Wally West’s evolving legacy as The Flash.

Up until then, I’d enjoyed superheroes casually. But something about those comics struck a chord. These weren’t just colourful costumes and flashy fights—they were origin stories, full of character growth, resilience, and transformation. These characters were evolving through struggle, much like I was starting to.

From that moment on, I became a collector. I started frequenting comic stores, saving up for issues, and trying my best to draw the heroes I admired. My creative spark—something I’d felt flickering before—suddenly roared to life. And that moment in the hospital became the true beginning of my journey as a creator.

From Star Wars to Star Trek: My Sci-Fi Evolution

I was always a huge Star Wars fan. But Star Trek: The Original Series? Not so much. As a kid, I found it boring and hard to get into. I actively disliked it, actually. But everything changed when I gave Star Trek: The Next Generation a chance. I started watching in Season 3 because Wil Wheaton was in it—and I had a bit of a crush on him thanks to Stand By Me. What started as fangirling turned into something deeper: I was hooked.

The characters, their camaraderie, their ethics, and that beautiful feeling of family in space—that’s when I truly became a Trekker. Since then, I’ve loved every series that followed. (Yes, even Enterprise. Yes, even Discovery. And I will defend Lower Decks to the end.)

The Influence of Wil Wheaton (And Why I Blog)

Years later, I discovered Wil Wheaton’s blog, and it hit me like a warp core breach. He was honest, vulnerable, thoughtful, and unflinchingly human. Reading his words made me feel less alone in the universe. It inspired me to blog, too—not for attention, but for connection.

I’ve had blogs before—many were heavy, full of venting and pain—but they helped me process. Most are probably long gone now. Still, I carry that spirit with me here. What you’re reading now is part of that same journey. Because for me, being creative and being honest go hand in hand.

Enter: SuperMell

Everything I create now—the blog, the branding, the adventures of SuperMell—comes from this core truth:

I am a creator because I am a fan.

Superheroes made me feel powerful at times when I felt anything but. Sci-fi taught me to think beyond the possible. Fantasy helped me believe in magic when reality felt bleak. Conventions let me be around people who love what I love. And being a creator means carrying that joy forward.

SuperMell is my tribute to it all—a superhero persona that’s really just me, channeling the strength, silliness, and spirit of all the stories that shaped me. She’s not perfect. But she keeps showing up.

Diana’s Corner: Vigilance (and Naps)

Diana’s not into Star Trek or Star Wars. She doesn’t even care about superheroes (unless there’s string involved). But she is my sidekick in real life. She guards my creative energy by curling up near me when I write, leaping onto my chest when I need to rest, and keeping me grounded with her quiet strength.

Also, if there’s a Fandom CatCon, she should be the guest of honour.

Final Thought: Never Underestimate the Power of Fandom

Fandom isn’t frivolous. It’s not “just for kids” or something we grow out of. For many of us, it’s a lifeline. A spark. Sanctuary. And sometimes, it’s the thing that gets us drawing, writing, coding, designing, costuming, podcasting, or storytelling.

Fandom made me a creator. And I’m still creating, still learning, still loving every minute of it.

🦸‍♀️💫

How has your fandom shaped your creativity? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!