In a cosy corner of the Woodleigh Pub, while I was working on my online business, I noticed a woman in her yoga outfit, sipping on a beer. Intrigued, I struck up a conversation and discovered Joyce—a woman who turned her passion for nail art into a successful and inspiring journey. Her story is one of transformation, creativity, and the power of self-care.
A Chaotic Life
For years, Joyce was juggling the demands of a high-stress job, family responsibilities, and the daily chaos of life. "I was constantly on the move," she shared. "Balancing work, raising kids, and being the chauffeur for their activities left me exhausted."
The Breakthrough
Amidst the whirlwind, Joyce found herself yearning for an escape. "I realised I needed something that was just for me," she said. "A way to unwind and rediscover joy."
Discovering Nail Art
One day, while browsing through social media, Joyce stumbled upon stunning nail art designs. "I was captivated by the creativity and beauty," she recalled. "I decided to give it a try."
Armed with a basic gel nail kit, Joyce embarked on her nail art journey. "My first attempts were far from perfect," she laughed. "But I found the process incredibly therapeutic."
The Transformation
As Joyce honed her skills, nail art became more than just a hobby—it became a form of self-care. "Each design was a moment of peace and creativity," she explained. "It was my way of unwinding and expressing myself."
Experimenting with vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and unique textures, Joyce's nails became a testament to her artistic journey. "I started with beige because I knew it wouldn't be too striking," she said. "But as I gained confidence, I began experimenting with bolder colours like green and blue."
Joyce soon decided to take her designs to the next level by incorporating 3D charms. "I'm planning to add 3D charms or create a 3D bee on my nails to remind myself to take a break and not always be a busy bee," she shared with a smile. "It's a playful and meaningful way to remember self-care."
Becoming an Influencer
Joyce's passion for nail art soon caught the attention of her friends and colleagues. "Everyone started noticing my nails and asking for tips," she said. "It felt amazing to be appreciated for something I loved."
Encouraged by the positive feedback, Joyce started an Instagram account to share her nail art creations. "I wanted to inspire others and connect with fellow nail art enthusiasts," she explained.
A Community of Inspiration
Joyce's account quickly gained a following, and she found herself part of a vibrant community. "The support and creativity of the nail art community were incredible," she said. "We shared ideas and challenges and celebrated each other's successes."
A New Perspective
Nail art not only transformed Joyce's self-care routine but also her perspective on life. "It taught me the importance of taking time for myself and finding joy in creativity," she reflected. "It was a reminder that even in the busiest of lives, there's room for beauty and self-expression."
As our conversation drew to a close, Joyce's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Nail art has been a transformative journey," she said. "It's brought me joy, confidence, and a sense of community. Most importantly, it's reminded me to prioritise self-care and creativity."
I understood Joyce's feelings and felt inspired to share her story—a testament to the power of discovering and nurturing one's passions. Her journey into the world of nail art is a vibrant reminder that creativity can lead to personal growth and fulfilment.

*“Joyce” is not the individual's actual name. This story is formed by conversations with different people and friends.
The Koyeed Team.