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Good Morning,
I took an unplanned blog break last week as although I have stacks of photos and content ideas, I was feeling a little apathetic. I wasn’t feeling down or sad, I just wasn’t feeling anything to be honest and I knew whatever I produced would have been forced or not truly authentic. Taking some time out can feel slightly counter intuitive as often we feel inspired or motivated through doing things or by interacting with others as we normally would. I also felt guilty for not wanting to do anything or go anywhere when we’ve had a whole year of restrictions on our freedoms. Although I was looking forward to restrictions easing, I didn’t have this desperate urge to go out or to the shops or out for dinner.
I think it partly comes down to choice and with the ability to move around more freely or decide where to go or what to do having been taken away for so long, when it comes back it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to go everywhere and anywhere just because you can. While we’ve been forced to be at home for the last few months, I now had the choice to stay at home and it’s almost a power trip. The ball was back in my court and I wasn’t ready to kick it just yet. Don’t get me wrong, I have plans lined up for the next few weeks and I’m really looking forward to seeing people regularly again, going out for lunch and shopping with my friends but I think for that first week of freedom, I had control and I simply choose to lay low and almost prepare myself for easing back into regular life.
I understand this is a common feeling at the moment and I felt better knowing I wasn’t alone. There isn’t a magic solution or quick fix, the best thing you can do is ride the wave and not set any expectations for levels of productivity or motivation. You know your body and mind best and if you’re not feeling particularly enthused or are having to force yourself to engage, it’s important to take a step back and go easy on yourself.
I now feel refreshed and ready to get back on that hamster wheel.
xo!