Elise Besler-Harnish, Owner of Nusong Studio and our contributor for this week's installment of "7 Questions With..." knows that good things comes to those who hustle. Within the past 12 months, she released an EP, started work on her forthcoming album with fellow artist and producer, Erin Costelo, performed live at the iconic St. Matthew's United Church, and oh yeah–did we mention she's also a full time voice coach? Read on to find out how Elise manages to stay in "tune" with both her business and personal goals (see what we did there...?).
1. How did you get started in business?
The transition to owning and operating Nusong Studio (my voice teaching facility) was relatively seamless. I had been teaching voice for a music school and had for many years wanted to branch out on my own. Everything seemed to fall into place at the right time: the perfect space to run the business and then the gumption to finally do it! I have never looked back and could not be happier with my choice.
2. What is your morning routine?
I always check my phone first (unless I have a yoga practice planned), check any messages and then pop a banana and protein shake, and hop into my little home gym! Starting my day with a good sweat makes me feel alive for the day! Some mornings, I choose to sleep though–those mornings are great too!
3. Where is your favourite place in Halifax to spend time in nature?
The "Loop Trail" by our house on Purcells Cove Road! It's the perfect little oasis to walk our sweet poochie Ellie, and it feels like you're not even in the city. I read once that forests share an amazing micro root system that connects all the trees to one another and that the minute you take your first step into the forest all of the trees know you are there. I think of this every time we walk the loop! I feel like the trees are infinite space holders for Ellie and me. There is also a tree that looks like a bear face :).
4. What's a goal you're working towards right now?
I am recording my next album in December! I am fine tuning the songs I've written, and getting arrangements together. I am so excited!
5. Who inspires you and why?
My step daughter, Dinah. She is such a powerful young woman, who has worked hard to overcome anxiety, and is working towards her Diploma in Music Arts at NSCC! I love watching her grow up.
6. When was the last time you failed spectacularly at something?
I fail myself spectacularly when give in to self doubt and don't trust the work I have done and continue to do. I am learning to be patient with myself, and hold space for the mistakes I make. I am hardest on myself when I forget to communicate compassionately and to advocate for myself. Hindsight is always clearer looking in the rearview. Each time, I learn for the next time.
7. What makes you smile without fail?
When I come in the house and my hubby and dog are waiting for couch cuddles. It is my favourite place in the world to be; all time stops and the "three musketeers" are together!
Elise represents the power of seeing possibility in the face of an apparent challenge. It's this quality that inspires not solely her students but all those who are fortunate enough to interact with her. Tell us–have you committed to a Big Hairy Audacious Goal like Elise? We want to know what it is in the comments!