Embracing Change: Finding Balance in a Busy World

If you’re anything like me, the thought of not doing anything is slightly daunting. I’m always on the go; I love learning, I love creating, and I love being busy with projects. Sticking to the same routine is, arguably, pretty routine for me! For the most part, routine is a huge benefit to my lifestyle. However, there comes a point when having a set schedule becomes too mundane and doesn’t fuel me in the way I need. I end up feeling less motivated to check off whatever is on my to-do list and instead, start to have this sense of being stuck.

I used to just push through this, thinking it would pass. And sometimes it did. But there were periods where this ‘stuck’ feeling lasted for days or even weeks, and the more I tried to push myself, the more I started to resent the task in front of me.

One thing I’ve started to recognize is that this means my body and brain need a break – and not just a few minutes away from the screen. I need to temporarily walk away to come back more refreshed. After all, my best work isn’t produced when I am tired and frustrated, bored, or depleted. Rather, it comes from being energized and having a genuine love for it. Sometimes I need to walk away for an hour or an afternoon. Other times, ‘walking away’ means putting my ‘Out-of-Office’ on and having a few days focusing on other activities that have been on the back burner.

Learning to recognize when I need to take a step back and have a break is essential so that my projects and hobbies continue to be enjoyable. This is still something I’m figuring out, but I’m glad I am recognizing this. We all need rest – sleep, yes – but also rest away from being in ‘work mode’ whether it be for school/university or full-time and part-time jobs.

When I need a short break, I try to avoid screens because I work on one for most of the day. I often find myself going for woodland walks or getting ice cream/coffee, and having a nap is sometimes a good call when I am feeling particularly tired. I also like doing paint-by-numbers, playing the guitar, painting my nails, and browsing the local shops. If you struggle to carve out time to recharge, sometimes it can help to have planned activities with a friend so that you can hold each other accountable. Occasionally, I’ll do crafts at my friend’s flat or we will pop out to a nearby town for a change of scenery – we will take a picnic and go exploring. Whatever it is, I try to be present in the moment.

This is your reminder that it is okay to take a step back and recharge, and I hope this provides you with some ideas for what you could do.