How I am finding inspiration in the quiet moments of burnout recovery and hoping to rediscover the joy of creativity after hitting pause.
This fall as we started back to our school lessons and the schedule shifted, I felt my creativity drop. It was a subtle shift that happened over a month or so when I just began to feel dried up.
At the end of this summer I felt like a wild flower when the rainy season ends. However, because I approach writing with the dedication of a serious career, I kept writing. I kept showing up.
“The amateur believes he must first overcome his fear; then he can do his work. The professional knows that fear can never be overcome. He does his work in spite of it.” – Steven Pressfield
My writing routines and rhythms are streamlined and efficient. Over the past five years, I’ve made a deliberate effort to structure my work so it fits seamlessly into my busy life. But efficiency doesn’t rekindle joy.
As summer slowly moved into fall my spark continued to dim. In October, after some helpful journaling, I realized I was in the midst of a creative slump or burnout. I need to infuse my life with fresh ideas, quiet, and some activities that would refresh my soul.
Thus began a new venture into new hobbies, some old ones, and lots of time to read. I still continue to write a few days a week but I am using my writing time for other things as well.
I understand this sounds ridiculously privileged. Yes, I agree. I am very blessed with time in my schedule to explore hobbies and creativity. It does come at a cost but that is something my husband continue to make work. We are very good a stretching the budget. I am aslo thankful that I have older kids, teens, and a schedule that allows me space for writing and creative recovery. I have not always been in this spot and so I am extremely grateful. Please give me some grace as I write from the heart with what I am struggling with right now.
So what am I doing right now?
This fall I have been experimenting with sourdough recipes that are new to me, reading Charlotte Mason’s educational philosophy series, and painting with watercolor.
In the next few months as we head into the winter season I plan to get out my knitting, learn more watercolor techniques (with fancy supplies from the craft store) and enjoy longer morning walks.
I have a reading stack that rivals a college semester reading list and I will be spending my extra time offline.
And so, like a wildflower, I am going to do my best to bloom where I am planted and appreciate this season I am in.
I am documenting this here for you because I know that we all have seasons when our words feel flat, our work feels pointless, and our motivation is quickly dwindling. I hope that something here in my process will speak to you and give you ideas to revive your own creativity. Or make you feel less alone if life feels diminished and boring.
My Creative Recovery Lists
Step #1: Feeling Worn Down –
When I begin to feel worn down, the first steps I take are very basic things that help me feel more like the version of myself I enjoy.
- get more exercise in nature, alone, without a podcast — I just take a walk and let my mind wander
- spend some time journaling just for me
- in the evenings after kitchen clean up, I read a book instead of scrolling on social media
- have a conversation with a safe friend verbally processing the last month or so and why I feel drained — in this I find answers and understanding
Step #2: Still Needing More –
After a week or more if I am still feeling overly exhausted from my writing work I know a change needs to happen.
- clarify what I should be working on and what I need to prioritize in my writing work — clarity is kindness, especially with ourselves
- dig deep and figure out what I am interested in working on — do I need to learn new skills or try something different?
- take a scheduled break from writing work and tasks — decide ahead of time what I will and will not work on and then enjoy having extra time off
So, what do I do with my time when I have made space for writing work and now I need a break from all of it?
Step #3: New Hobbies and Creative Work –
Thus begins a new phase of experimenting with new hobbies, reminding myself of old ones I have put down, and being a beginner.
- I infuse different areas of my life with fresh content and new ideas:
- music – new playlists, different artists, new types of music (have you ever heard of didgeridoo beatbox or Minecraft Lo-fi?)
- podcasts – using new search terms or asking friends I gather a few new podcasts to try out to add enjoyment to doing dishes or folding laundry
- books – I read from a different genre or from an author that is new to me
- movies/TV – a new series or type of show can give me a fresh perspective (I love documentaries and historical pieces when I’m feeling depleted)
- art appreciation – going to a museum or gallery can feel like a breath of fresh air in my creative life (even street art can be fascinating)
- During recovery seasons, I find myself drawn to new hobbies that capture my attention.I experiment, make messes, and try out a new skill with low expectations.
- [check out my posts on hobbies linked below]
I have a few posts scheduled for the next few months, so you’ll still see me pop in occasionally. Taking this break will give me the space to reset and recharge, allowing fresh ideas to bloom. I’m looking forward to returning with renewed energy and more meaningful content to share with you all.
It would be a huge help if you could take a quick moment to share some feedback—because, let’s be honest, I can’t read minds. 😜
What posts have resonated with you this year?
What has been helpful?
Your feedback really helps me understand what topics you’d like to explore more. Your input means a lot as I continue to shape content that feels meaningful and practical.
If I could, I’d drop by with a plate of homemade cookies or a warm bowl of soup to share so we could chat. But for now, I’m sending cozy moments of creativity your way and wishing you all the best!
