I never intended to write the first blog for this site about the COVID-19 pandemic, but here we are. Most of us were completely blind-sided by the speed in which society and life as we know it has completely changed. As a creative who works (ed) for a catering and events company, I knew pretty quickly that my job was in danger. Most of the events that kept the company going have canceled for the next couple of months. Most of our creative team was laid off for the foreseeable future. So how do you navigate in these trying times?
Boredom hits hard.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, there were generally three focuses that filled my time each day. Work, family, and the gym. I’m down to just family. I’m super grateful for that. I don’t know how I would handle this without them.
Even though I’ve struggled to keep my normal workout routine with the lack of heavy weights, I still manage to get some exercise in. I have just stuck to bodyweight training, a few dumbells that I do own, and taking long walks. Which my one-year-old, Scarlett really enjoys.
I have also been working on building my portfolio, drawing, learning calligraphy, hand lettering, and posting work on Instagram daily.
COVID-19 Depression Creeps In.
When you are stuck in the house with limited options, it’s hard for depression not to rear its ugly head from time to time. The gym is my sanctuary. It’s where I go to relieve stress and foster creativity. Now, I don’t have that. It’s more important than ever to be grateful and keep an abundance mindset. I’m nervous about what the future hold for me and my family. Really nervous. However, we have plenty of food and love to go around. I have a wife and three kids and we are all safe. Look around. What are the little things in your life that you are grateful for?
Staying Inspired during a pandemic.
It’s easy to let yourself sink into a depression. No one would blame you right now, but it also won’t help and it’s not productive. I’m spending this time to strengthen my skills and work on all the things I would never have time to otherwise. I use youtube and skillshare to learn new skills. I listen to podcasts to stay inspired. Here are my favorites:
I hope sharing my experiences is helpful to you. I know that the only reason I made it through 2019 is because of how caring and honest other designers were about their struggles. That made a huge difference in my life and I just want to pay it forward. Stay well. Stay Creative.