Random Caption
It’s full-on winter in these parts now. So, ‘bye feet, see you next year. It may be the dark, cold days – or maybe just the flurry of the holiday season – that’s making life feel a little sluggish around here. I’m feeling a little dormant, a bit like hibernating. I’m all soup and blankets and books and snuggly kitten on the couch mode. However, I’m optimistic that this little down-cycle is the start of something new and exciting brewing – not just a hard-core seasonal sloth-fest. There’s something happening in the background, I just need time to allow myself to slow down and catch it.
I’ve been thinking a lot about my creative process and how I delegate my time. I’m re-reading The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People (if you’ve read this, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the book). I’m realizing the importance of allowing myself some down-time. I’m going to make a concerted effort to take better care of myself, to journal out my ideas and plans, and to tear myself away from the computer so I can concentrate on being more *ahem* productive. I will not be doing New Year’s resolutions this year, but I will be focusing on these things:
- Making myself and my health a priority (being active, both physically and mentally)
- Being more proactive with my time, my relationships, and my creativity
I hope this narrow focus will open up many new possibilities in the upcoming year. What do you think? Have you made any life/work/creative changes lately?
I got this Petit Prince Moleskine from my friend April, and my goal is to jot a little in it every day. On the cover it says, L’essentiel est invisible pour les yeux. From the full quote, Voici mon secret. Il est très simple: on ne voit bien qu’avec le cœur. L’essentiel est invisible pour les yeux. Meaning: “Here is my secret. It is very simple; It is only with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is invisible to the eye.”
♥ perfection
First off – you have a terrific tattoo! From what I’ve read and enjoyed on your blog – it is SO YOU! As for taking time off and taking care of yourself…I think it sounds like you’re finding balance – which is always a good thing!
Thanks, Ann! I guess I’ve mostly been feeling overwhelmed with what appear to be “urgent” priorities, and commitments. I just need to step back and remember what really matters (my health, having fun creating, etc.). I need a re-structuring so I can get back into a real, meaningful creative flow. I have all these ideas, but without some structure, they just kinda pound against the inside of my skull.
I think I will be hot on your heels with these thoughts. I love how the internet and computers in general have enhanced my life and opened many more doors for me but I agree that we need to ‘step away from the machine’ sometimes! Its very easy to neglect ones own health and I agree that that, above all should be a priority. Loving your journal. I’m designing a range of classic book covers at the moment and The Little Prince is one of them! Is that tattoo for real on your foot? Its sooooooo cool! I’m surrounded by tatood people in London but that one has to be my favourite of all!
Yup, it’s real! It was an early birthday present for myself, back in October — it’s actually covering an old, faded tat that I wasn’t liking anymore. Now I just have to think of a good crochet design (a little granny square, perhaps). And, oh my, you’re a book designer?! That might be my dream career!
And yes, I need to start spending more time in my sketchbook and behind my camera than I do in front of the Mac!
I like the winter. I like when it’s dark all the time. nice change of pace. And for some reason I just don’t get that cold. I’m one of those lucky people I think.
Winter aint so bad.
I’m perpetually cold.
How serendipitous – I have a Little Prince moleskin too (and very similar resolutions). Thanks so much for the inspiration!