avoiding burnout as an artist

My fellow artists know how it goes—we   get so into our art that we forget to take a break. You start out working on one piece, and the next thing you know, its 3 am and you have to be up for work in 4 hours.

All that screen time can lead to burnout. I struggle with this... every. single. day. So, here are the things that I'm doing more consciously this month that have been making a huge difference in my routine:

1. Get a good chair (no, really)

I have a habit of sitting cross-legged or with one leg up when I'm making my art, which has been causing back and hip problems. Plus, hunching over the screen makes it worse (I don't have the best posture to begin with). Investing in a comfy chair has been a lifesaver for my hips. I got the piper song meditation chair, which has been a total game changer (if you can swing it, get a good chair!)️

2. Check in with yourself – did you hit a "HOMERUN" today? (I made this up for myself but you can do what works best for you)

I like to do a daily check-in using this "HOMERUN" method to make sure I’m taking care of myself:

h- hydrate: keep sipping that water.
o- order: keep your workspace tidy. (did you put stuff away...right away?)
m- meditate: spend a few moments in mindfulness.  (I've been doing this 29 days straight now! a record)
e- exercise: get moving, even if it’s just a walk.
r- read: did I read today? (my brain feels mush if I don't)
u- unwind: did I take a break? (i don't do this enough)
n- nourish: eat something healthy and delicious. eat period; (I have trouble eating sometimes)

3. Trim the energy fat

Your energy is gold! if something or someone is draining you, it’s time to cut them out. Creativity takes a lot of brainpower, so make sure you’re putting your energy into what you love most.

Stay balanced and keep creating, my friends!