Working on my own, I use a lot of methods to provide structure to my day, but some days I just don’t have it in me. On a recent “blue” day, as I call them, I connected with a dear friend who reminded me that I should take time to go for a walk on the beach.
Even though I live pretty close to the ocean, I haven’t been making time to go see it. Inspired by my friend, I went for a long walk on the beach. As I was walking, I started feeling lighter and more optimistic. I snapped a picture and sent it to my friend as a thank you.
When I feel less, it is easy for me to fall into the blues. One antidote I try is to create more. Create more possibilities by reaching out to a friend, create more memories by going for a walk or create more art to color the blues away.
It's impossible to be structured all the time, so learning to be ok with taking a break from the to-do list is just as important as making an action list in the first place.
If you are having trouble moving forward, try creating more possibilities by focusing on what you have in your life. It may be surprising what options present themselves.
Julia Fletcher is founder of JEFS Storytelling Arts, a graphic design studio, where she uses her unique research skills and artistic talents to create custom visual stories that help clients’ increase engagement and promote the education of their audience.