Art and Adventure as an Antidote to Overwhelm
Hunting for my creative inspiration amidst burnout
Lovely readers, I’m sorry that this post is sooooo late! It will barely qualify as a “weekend read” for my fellow Europeans.
I’ve tried to publish consistently since I started this newsletter in July 2024 (I can’t believe my baby is 9 months old – you could say my gestational period is over!)
For the most part I’ve succeeded. For many months I was writing three times a week, and I’ve published over 100 posts. I give myself a pat on the back for that.
But sometimes it’s hard.
Hi, I’m Holly - certified coach, Breathworks mindfulness facilitator and author of Zestful Zen. My mission is helping you to lead a more mindful, meaningful life, full of zest and energy, complemented by a calm, zen mind. Join the supportive Zestful Zen community today. 💖✨ 1
Come back creativity!
My Q1 2025 was a slog a lot of the time. Bereavement, overwork, overwhelm.
A combo that doesn’t really get me fired up to create!
My 9-5 has gotten ever more manic as my Belgian finish-date approaches (T minus 8 weeks!) And surprise, surprise, moving countries comes with a whole heap of admin.
So, I’m feeling a little burnt out right now and lacking in imagination.
I’d hoped inspiration would hit like a lightning bolt on Friday, but nope! Still AWOL on Saturday and by this morning I felt my creativity had abandoned me, waaaah!
In search of inspiration
Instead of panicking or feeling guilty, I decided to cut myself some slack and flip the “create before you consume” adage on its head.
I gave myself the gift of art and adventure today, in the hope it would light a fire under my writing muse’s arse.
Tram and train transported me to Mons for a mini adventure:
I checked out the lovely old architecture and had lunch al fresco in a sunny park.
I learned about the Doudou Festival, that includes St George fighting the dragon.
I saw some beautiful paintings by local artist Claudine Ruelle.
And on a more sombre note, I learned the history of Mons during WW1 & WW2.
Starting to spark…?
I’m still feeling a lack of writing inspiration tonight, but I loved the gorgeous art I saw in the galleries and streets of Mons. Maybe you’ll enjoy a few snapshots…?
Sorry again for the lateness of this post, but as I’m always saying - self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential. So I’m practicing what I preach!
Questions for self-reflection or journalling ✍️
How do you know when it’s time to recharge your creative batteries?
What sparks your writing muse or creative juices?
When you feel overwhelmed or uninspired, can you cut yourself some slack?
What gives you energy, joy, and inspiration?
Now take action 🎯
If you’re lacking your usual creative pep, cut yourself some slack! You can’t fire on all cylinders every day.
Do something fun! Dance, sing, check out some art - anything you find enjoyable.
Try something new - maybe a change of scenery or an interesting activity.
Take action with kindness and self-compassion. No guilt or “shoulding” on yourself.
Share your perspective ✨
I’d love to hear your reflections on creativity and inspiration. How do you manage dips in energy and imagination? Let’s have a conversation in the comments or subscriber chat.
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Disclosure: To support my solopreneurship dreams, posts may contain affiliate links, where I get a small commission at no cost to you. I only share items I genuinely believe you’ll enjoy.
I am glad you gave yourself the gift of art and adventure. 100 posts is amazing... you deserve to give yourself grace.