Priorities
It's tough to keep priorities straight. I've been feeling uninspired and disconnected from photography lately and I haven't been able to figure out why.
Just 5 minutes ago, while editing today's self-portraits, I realized exactly what is causing it. Usually, I have decent opportunities to get outside, just me, my dog, and camera, a few times a week. This is what helps feed my creativity.
What's different right now?
Well, being between jobs and doing some freelancing, I'm home most of the time. In December every year my sister tries to take most of the month off and then instead of going to daycare, my nephew comes here every day. It has been fun having him around a lot, but I just realized that's what I'm letting stop me from getting out for my solitary walks. We usually end up walking all the dogs at once, with the kid in tow. I do usually take my camera, but it's not the same. He's always trying to tell you something, or you're keeping an eye out to make sure he doesn't get into trouble, or keeping an eye on dogs while other people watch the kid, or the other people are talking. It's fun. And I'm sure I'll have lots of fond memories of these experiences. But, I'm also really noticing the impact on my creative work.
So, I have to figure out how to make my solitary walks, that feed my creativity and mental health, a higher priority. I have to make sure I'm getting out by myself. It's so easy to let things that should be priorities slip away. I really struggle with making sure the right things are prioritized.
How do you make sure to maintain the priority of activities that positively support your mental health?