I always feel guilty for not constantly being busy.
As an artist, I sometimes feel bad for just playing with paint. But deep down, I know that if I don’t allow myself to play, I’ll miss out on so many discoveries and experiences.
The same goes for life. If we don’t give ourselves time to learn, to be free, and to play, we risk burning out. We become less productive, less inspired, and less ourselves.
Lately, I haven’t felt much like heading into the studio. My inspiration and energy have dropped. There’s been a lot going on — my daughter starting secondary school, for one — and this autumn term has felt very long indeed.
But when I stop to think about what I’ve achieved this year, I realise I’ve done more than I give myself credit for. I created an online course, taught more workshops, started selling prints on my website, and launched a new collection. It’s been a huge year.
So what I’m really trying to say is: give yourself time to breathe. Enjoy the small, precious moments. Our days don’t need to be filled to the brim. If, like me, you have a busy mind, take a walk, meet a friend for coffee, or simply pause to notice the season around you.
For me, this half term will be about spending time with my children — days out, fun and soaking in the beautiful autumn weather. And next half term I will be making sure that I take time out to see exhibitions, go for lunch with friends. It's not laziness, it's necessary to stay inspired and more myself.
I popped into the studio today to work in my sketchbook. Did I like what I created? No. But I did it. And right now, that’s enough. I just need space to think and time to feel nourished, so that I can start afresh in the new year.
Love Rebecca x