So, I totally spaced on my one-year self-employed anniversary on February 5th. I cannot believe it’s been a year, but just realizing that is a bit fitting, as it sums up the past few weeks– complete whirlwind! Between Scout getting neutered (which has me house ridden as of lately watching over him so he heals properly), new projects coming in, and the crazy weather taking over San Francisco, I feel like I’ve been on an emotional rollercoaster. I had one sunny afternoon last week and it made me feel back to life again and so happy… but then it went back to monsoon status. I really do think the weather itself is taking a big toll on me–cabin fever is real. So let’s all think sunshiny thoughts because it’s no fun to not feel like a hot mess. Ya know?
Instead of reflecting on the past year right now (which I do want to touch upon eventually, but I will save that for another day), I thought I’d share my ongoing and always-growing “inspiration guide”. A list of thing that I keep in my notepad that undoubtedly always makes me feel better/gets my creative wheels turning. Do you have a list like this?
It’s important to uncover the things that light a fire in your soul– so take note and add onto your own inspirational list so you can always revisit it when you need to. A few things that always give me a fresh perspective….
Explore. Even if it’s just a cute neighborhood close by. There’s nothing quite like seeing something for the first time, so notice the details, grab a coffee and wander. If you really want to do this big, book a trip to the beach. Quiet time by the ocean with a good book will do it. If I could be so lucky to just always pick up my hat and go whenever I needed a refresh, I would. But have no fear, there are other ways to pick things back up…
Man Repeller Podcasts. And, really, anything Leandra Medine related. I adore her and I swear, every time I’ve ever heard her speak in an interview or podcast, I am so inspired. Her eloquence, drive, and point of view are all majorly inspiring and I couldn’t love how much she embraces herself and her wonderful quirks more.
The Power of Now. If you’re needing a life-changing outlook on living in the now and letting go of the past, this is a must. This book literally, changed my life. In 2012 I was living in Australia after parting ways with an awful relationship. I was living with an Irish couple and they had a few books sitting on their bookcase in our living room. I wanted something to skim through while laying by the pool, and I ended up finishing it in a day (have read it twice since). It completely changed my way of thinking, removed the weight from my shoulders with my ex, and I felt like myself again. Side note: this was also amazing because it was early into my 6 months living there, so I could actually breathe and just enjoy it to the fullest. Thank you, Eckhard Tolle!
Book a lunch date with someone who shares the same interests. I find that when I’m needing my mind back, some creative camaraderie helps so much. Heading to lunch with other blogger or photographer friends is not only great to catch up, but also amazing to bounce new ideas off of each other. When you work for yourself, sometimes you really lack that sense of team and being able to brainstorm, etc. So every once in a while this is good for the soul.
What do you look to when you really want to feel that amazing can’t-stop-won’t-stop inspiration? I hope you’re having a wonderful week, talk soon!
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At the risk of sounding cheesy, I come to BoC when I’m in a life rut and need a breath of fresh air with #realtalk, beautiful photography, and the prettiest esthetic. Your writing is so easy to take in, I almost always can related to alllll the things and without fail, always leave your IG feed, Pinterest boards or blog, with a smile on my face and some inspiration. Thank you for that… 🙂
Aw, thank you, Amira! It really does mean a lot to know that you come here for that, because I treasure the things in my life that bring me new ideas, so it’s the nicest compliment ever, so thank YOU!
I absolutely love this post. I’ve been on a bit of a creative revamp lately (new city, new job, new blog partnerships), and it’s easy to feel scatter brained and not exactly know where to turn. These are some great places to look for a bit of a creative boost. Thank you!!
xo Mackenzie | ToThe9sFashion.com
Oh my goodness, well congratulation to all the newness going on over there! It can definitely seem overwhelming, but there’s nothing better than a blank slate, right? It’s crazy how much life can change with a new job or a new apartment to decorate, so having everything at once just must feel so surreal! Enjoy it all, and thanks so much for saying hi!!
Great post, I have heard nothing but good things about The Power of Now! I also adore Leandra Medine- she is articulate, intelligent, funny, and wonderfully unique. Creative hangouts with fellow bloggers and creatives are tremendously helpful when you are in a creative rut– it’s hard sometimes not having a full team to bounce ideas off of all day, so it’s really helpful to get others perspectives and voices in your head once in a while.
Thank you! Ah, yes– I am so picky with books, I did not think picking it up would lead to page turning to no end and feeling so refreshed, and like a new woman. Highly recommend it!!
Another Tumblr I think you’d love/get sucked into is L’Extravegance (http://lextravagance.tumblr.com). Whenever I’m in need of inspiration I tend to grab a stack of magazines and a good cup of coffee, or explore a new neighborhood/museum/restaurant I’ve been meaning to try. Have a good day and congrats on the one year anniversary!
Thanks, lady! Museum IS SUCH a good idea, oh my gosh. I always forget about how enjoyable it is to grab a coffee and wander around a pretty exhibit. Thank you for that reminder and for the kind note! I hope you have a great day too! xx
I need to read that book- I have recently been finding inspiration in new friends- ‘checking out’ their style and figuring out why I do and don’t like it makes me question my style opinions which is always fun!
Yes, Emily– you must read it, it’s so good! xx
I went through the exact same experience you had leaving an awful relationship and continuing my studies/getting away to Australia. I learnt so much about myself and had a true transformation. Plus, I had such a blast in Australia.
Oh my gosh, how funny! Well, the OZ lifestyle surely does seem to throw the troubles away! I had such a blast myself. 🙂
So inspiring! Yes, I agree, it is so important to get together (in person!) with a like-minded crew. Having a hard time finding that being new in town, but I know it can take a while. 🙂