Returning to myself
Dear Reader,
It's officially been a week since I left instagram and I'm here today to update you on what's been happening. Just to clarify, I'm not saying that what I'm doing is universally the right thing to do. It's just the right thing for me. When I stepped away from instagram in the past, it was more of a vacation with the intention of returning when it felt right. This time around, I don't know if that will be the case.
How have things changed?
I'm not even sure if I can articulate why it feels different this time. It just does. I'll try to break it down and see what has changed this time around.
- I don't miss instagram.
It honestly feels like a big weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. I don't feel compelled to post and I also don't feel stressed out when no one sees those posts. Now I'm putting that energy into creating and brainstorming ideas for my business, which feels much more productive. And I feel that I'm also more present in my personal life since my attention isn't diverted elsewhere.
- I'm not concerned about followers.
What I mean by that is that I'm not concerned whether or not I lose followers during my non-time specific hiatus and/or possible exit. Thank you to my supportive followers throughout the years. I appreciate you. And, I also know that I will stay connected with many folks whether or not I return to instagram.
- It's been a lot easier to step away when no one was seeing my posts anyway.
Way back before the algorithm changed and I had way less followers I also had much more interaction. Now it just feels like I'm posting into the ether.
- I've been wildly inspired and creatively active during my break thus far.
Even though I know that I've always created for me, it feels even more authentic now.
- Stepping away has given me greater insight into different ways I can exist as an artist in the world and share my work.
It's almost like a form of adaptation. I'm finding so many more things I could do to further my business that I never would have thought of before.
- I feel released from the virtual validation loop.
I never thought I was someone who really needed external validation, but we all do to some extent. Finding that dopamine in other more mindful ways has been a lesson in self-reflection and gratitude.
Things I've been working on and new ideas.
- I've been working on some fiber art that I will be submitting to several local galleries in the next couple of weeks. So far I've finished nine small pieces. I'm very excited about this because it's something I've wanted to do for a long time.
- I'd love to host my own local events in the way of sustainable craft shows and/or fashion shows.
- I'm in the process of dreaming up some zines and booklets which I'm so excited about. If all goes well, I will have them for sale at shows and online.
- I'm going to go old school at my next show and bring a clip board with a sign-up sheet for my newsletter.
This is just a glimpse into all of the ideas that are whirling around in my head at all times. I think it's a good place to start though.
What will I be working on this week?
- I'm going to try needle weaving and crewel embroidery.
- I might make some small pins using either jewelry bits and pieces or textiles.
- Brainstorming zine and booklet ideas
It's going to be really hot here for the next couple of days, so I'm going to make some of my home made electrolyte drink. Check out the "recipe" (this is a loose terminology) for my favorite one below.
Cherry limeade electrolyte drink
Size: One half gallon mason jar
- 1/4 c. raw honey
- 1/4 c. cherry juice concentrate
- 1/4 c lime juice
- 1 tsp of sea salt
- Mix honey first and add a bit of warm (not boiling) water so you can thoroughly dissolve
- Add the cherry and lime juices
- Add the salt
Stir all ingredients and mix well to combine. Then fill with water to the top. Keep this in the refrigerator and enjoy. I usually mix this with some water when I drink it or pack a glass full of ice. Please feel free to make this to taste as well.
Other possible combinations
- watermelon and lime
- lemon or lemon ginger
- instead of adding just the water make an herbal infusion. Peppermint, lemon balm, a bit of lavender, etc. would be great.
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Mystery bag of 3 handmade sew-on patches
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- The world needs art.
- Art is a service to those who receive it.
Have a wonderful week.
xo,
Christa
Thanks for reading. I appreciate you.