Build What You Cannot See - Part 2

Melissa Northcutt
May 9
3 min read

In Part 1, Melissa talked about what it means to build with heart—casting vision for things we can’t yet see, but feel deep in our bones. And she didn’t just stay in the clouds—she got practical, too, digging into the most important foundation you’ll ever lay: relationships. Because let’s be real, all the success in the world means precious little if you're standing on top of it all alone. We were made for connection, not isolation.

Today, Melissa takes us a step further—unpacking the other spaces in life where beauty and vision can take root. Trust me, you’ll want to lean in for this one.

~ Kim,The Seasoned Lady

by: Melissa Northcutt

Homemaking

Live in the home you have today.

Don’t wait until you get the perfect dream home to hang your wall pictures and decorate your space.

Use what you have and be thrifty.

. I thrift all the time and love to change up décor often. Recently, I refreshed a $100 Offer Up teak wood patio set that I had painted 2 summers ago from teal blue to fresh white, and updated with “new to us” pillows and seat cushions—all from thrifting. Then I shopped the Lowe’s clearance garden section for beautiful vibrant Spring pink hanging geraniums. I also purchase high-end crocks and vases and use them when I give floral arrangements, so the recipient has a beautiful piece to keep. These can be found for $3.99-$8.99 each and make for a beautiful presentation. I keep a wall shelf stocked and pull from it often. Learn to be unashamedly thrifty!

There is something beautiful about making a space feel like home—no matter where you are. It’s not about waiting for the right moment; it’s about embracing life as it is and creating warmth in every detail.

Career

Keep learning and improving your skills.

Don’t ever stop asking questions. Attend the professional development opportunities, keep networking, and keep learning!

Foster positive peer relationships.

Stay humble and gracious.

Be intentional about expressing gratitude...

...to those who have invested in your professional journey. When something in your ordinary workday reminds you of that mentor who guided and invested in you, stop and express that gratitude!

Pay it forward...

...and always have someone else you are helping.

Success in a career isn’t always linear—it’s built on curiosity, consistency, and the willingness to invest in others. Growth takes time, just like any meaningful construction project.

The Heart of Building

My husband is an amazing builder. He has built so much on our property over the past 14 years using all recycled and repurposed materials—and a lot of dreaming. It is a slow process—waiting for the money for concrete, gathering enough wood or windows, consulting with others on best practices, and navigating trial and error. What started out as a blank slate and a lot of dreaming has turned into our family oasis.

I can’t always see his vision because he holds it close in his brain and heart. But I love seeing the results.

And that’s what building is all about—whether it’s a relationship, a home, a career, or a dream. It starts with something unseen. It requires patience, commitment, and faith in the outcome. Even when the blueprint isn’t fully clear, the results speak for themselves.

Take that trip today to Home Depot or Lowe’s and get inspired – build something!