Balance

January 28, 2022

Since the middle of last year, my life has changed dramatically. From being mostly sick and focusing solely on self-care, to being incredibly busy with my business. It's been a big change, and that's why it's been quiet here for a while. But I'm back, and it's time to tell you all about how I'm coping with this change, and I have a fun template for you!

To give in

At the end of last year, I was mainly busy packing orders day in and day out. It's one of the most mentally demanding things to do, very different from sitting quietly painting. It's hard to admit, because it's all so much fun, but it was too much. And yet, if I could do it all over again, I would do it again in a heartbeat, haha!

Admitting I needed help and admitting it was actually too much, while I wanted so much more (and I certainly didn't lack enthusiasm), caused me to relapse a few weeks ago. I felt incredibly tired, depressed, and listless.

My body is giving a signal

It took me a few days to come to terms with this. But eventually, my body gave me a signal, a signal that things had to change. A signal that I could also use some time to recover from the hectic months, a signal to reflect on everything that had happened.

Actually, I'm quite happy with my body's signaling function; it's quite useful, right?

Time for change

I started painting a lot, because I'd missed it so much during those busy months! From there, the peace returned, the sense of wonder so characteristic of me, my imagination running wild again, and the cheerfulness. I was even able to enjoy the coziness and comfort again during these gray days.

Besides painting a lot, I also enlisted some help with packing! I'm so glad I took that step, and was able to do it; it gives me so much more room for myself and my creativity in my week!

Little things

Now that I'm starting to pick up all the fun projects again, I'm noticing a lot of pressure in my head. It's all exciting, and my body hasn't forgotten the hectic pace of last year. So, it's about finding a good balance and regaining the confidence that I'm truly taking better care of myself. Exciting is fun, of course, but my body can quickly find exciting to be quite threatening, with the associated pain and discomfort. That's why I'm focusing on the little things in the coming weeks.

Every day I make a list of things that make me happy, amaze me, or were simply magical. Waking up to birdsong, watching a sunset, cuddling Bram the dog, spotting the first snowdrops, and many other little things.

This helps me stay closer to myself and more present in the present moment, the now. It's tempting to think through entire projects or go through your to-do list in your head, but that way you miss those lovely bird sounds!

For you!

I'm going to share my little things on Instagram for a while, in my stories. I've created a template for that. Feel free to use it too! If you enjoy sharing your happy moments, tag me in your story, and I'll share it. Who knows, maybe we'll have one big party of beautiful, magical moments of happiness.