When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. It is such a cliché, but it really speaks to this moment and all the possibilities of what can come out of these next few weeks. Even though my life feels like it flipped upside down, and I’m trying to find a new normal, I’ve chosen not to see what I’ve lost, but all I could gain out of this break. I now have more time to do the things that I have been trying to incorporate in my life that I didn’t think I could do before. Finding practical ways to implement a little bit more structure in my life, as well as harness my artistic skills, has been my focus during this time. Since I’ve been engaging in these things, I’ve learned a lot about myself as a creative.
The biggest temptation I’ve had since the start of all the chaos (besides getting caught up in it or making TikToks), is staying in my pajamas all day. Unless I’m needed for a Zoom meeting, putting on more than a decent top just seemed like too much effort for a day at home. But, after a few days I realized it’s still important to get up and get dressed! There is something about the psychology of it all that makes me feel ready and focused for the day. So, to combat this temptation, I have been adamant about implementing and sticking to a morning and night routine. Apart from helping me find a new normal is being intentional with how I end and start my day. In my opinion, my day starts the night before, so I try to stay structured with a routine to help me stay productive while I’m at home.
To balance my structed routines, I’ve added some creativity throughout my days as well. I wanted to take advantage of this time to engage in art, whether it be sketching, painting, singing, playing an instrument or writing. As I work to grow as a visual artist, this time had taught me that it doesn’t matter what type of art I’m doing or necessarily for how long, I just need to be doing it. Before, I often times wouldn’t take the time to paint because I thought I needed a certain amount of time to dedicate to it in order to engage, but really, 5 minutes can make a difference. I shouldn’t underestimate the power of time and all that can be done in a short time frame. Even if I take at least 15 minutes a day to do something that is creative or to grow in my artistic skills, it really can make a difference overall. Staying engaged while social distancing is a must for me, not only for my mental health, but to make the most out of the situation.
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