Highs and Lows

Mondays brings me as much hope as it defeat sometimes. The constant want to produce the best work can be draining. Being on top of the ball all the time would be great but, that’s not real life.

​There’s times when I get so uninspired and discouraged that I feel like I won’t ever get my creative juices flowing again. I always have to remind myself that without the lows, we wouldn’t appreciate the highs. There's a few things I know always help when I’m feeling less than fully motivated and need to recharge
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​Disconnect from social + Be in the moment

Social media without a doubt is a double edged sword. It's so easy for me to endlessly scroll and start comparing. One minute I'm looking for inspo- the next I'm wondering why I can't pose as well or get the lighting just as perfect. Quickly, I remind myself comparing will do nothing but bring me down! I have to focus on myself and just be- it's okay to just BE! It's not easy to constantly remember but, so worth it when I do. Every once in a while, I put my phone away and I just soak in the moment- no finger swipes, no filters, no algorithm- just enjoy the moment and be present. It's very refreshing to disconnect and come back to a project with a fresh mindset. 

Hang out with like minded creatives

I'm one of those people that needs her alone time but, also needs girl time. Nothing's better than getting together with a friend who just gets it and can also show me different perspectives. Bouncing ideas off each other becomes natural when I'm with someone who inspires me! I always find I get so much more excited talking out loud with others that can also see my vision.

For example, these photos are shot by the sweet angel Allie, @achies, and it was my first shoot since I got back from my wedding travels (aka suffering from post wedding/honeymoon blues). I was low key stressed out and felt like I was going to suck. It ended up being one of my favorite shoots and it reminds me to continue doing what I love with people that inspire me. Just the push I need every once in a while! 

Mood board

I've been getting so into magazines and mood boards lately! I rely a lot on the digital mood board- Pinterest- so often that I forget how fun making an actual mood board is. I just got this gold grid from Ikea and so excited to fill it with different prints, outfit ideas, and colors that stand out to me. It seems to be so much easier to put outfits together when I have certain moods in mind.  

There's no shame in indulging in the lows and it took me a bit to embrace that. I try to let myself ride out the wave and decompress without the constant pressure of producing content and being creative. Creativity is a muscle that needs exercise but also needs rest every once in a while. Hope these ideas help you as they help me when I'm in a creative rut! 

xx,
​Gabs