We can all admit that we’re living in some crazy times right now and while I’m super thankful to be able to work from home and ride this out, I’ve def needed some time to unplug. In the biz community, there’s been SO much pressure to pivot your biz or creating the next BIG thing and I have to admit, I’ve gotten sucked into it some. There are definitely some moves we’re making at our biz and projects we’ve moved from the back to the frontrunner, but I realized I had spent an avg of 15-16 hours on my computer each day since all of this had started.😳

So in an effort to rein things in a little and give myself some adequate rest, I decided I needed to spend this weekend (and the upcoming evenings) relaxing a little more. Because while there’s a whole lot out of our control, burning ourselves out on top of everything isn’t going to do us any good! While I enjoy a good binge-watch sesh here or there, doing things that are creative or trying new things is def more my style. I think as adults, a lot of us write these things off because we say we aren’t creative or we don’t know how to, but to me, it’s much more about the process than the end result. Sometimes things turn out great, sometimes you find out you really like something and others it’s a big ol’ fail but there’s something magical about focusing on something new that clears your mind!

So to help try and keep us all sane right now, I put together a list of different creative ideas and DIY projects I’d recommend. Either from things I’ve tried or things that are on my list! I also tried to pick things that need minimal supplies that you either might already have or things that were in-stock online.

Writing

It’s no secret that writing is one of my go-to’s, plus you don’t need any supplies to make this happen. It sounds so simple but it can be such a therapeutic experience. There’s a lot of different ways you can do this but I highly recommend giving some form a shot.

• Freewriting: When I’m feeling overwhelmed, sometimes I’ll take a freewriting approach where I’ll set a timer for 15-30 mins and just write everythingggg that is on my mind. Sometimes the sentences flow together and sometimes it’s just sporadic thoughts but I’ll keep writing anything on my mind until the timer is up.

• Journal prompts: If you’d like something with a little more structure, I recommend trying a journal prompt. There are a ton of different options out there to see what feels right. Girlcrush Collective has a really great blog post with a lot of different options too.

• Creative writing: Another great option is to write your own stories. Writing fiction is a great way to escape from the world we’re in and write your own story. It doesn’t matter if you’re not the next J.K. Rowling, again it’s all about the process!

Watercoloring

This was the creative outlet I decided to start with this weekend! I had bought a set of watercolor paints years ago, but have never used them so I thought it was the perfect time to try it out. Full disclosure, I know nada about painting but that was kind of the beauty of giving it a try. There are a lot of cool tutorials and Youtube channels out there and I def recommend checking out Makoccino’s channel. She has some really great tips and content!

Makeup & Hair Tutorials

Another thing I’ve spent a little time doing lately is watching makeup and hair tutorials. I’m not really that into makeup normally, but I’ve always thought it was fun watching these kinds of videos on Instagram or Youtube. Right before all of this went down, my friend Brittany hooked me up with some really awesome makeup to try out too so I’ve actually been using it instead of just watching the videos! She recommended I check out Tati Westbrook, so I’ve been watching a decent amount of her videos and then usually I just look through the #makeuptutorial hashtag on Instagram. Then for hair, Melissa Cook has some great braiding ideas and then I also love looking through Pinterest for ideas. I actually have a Pinterest board with ideas I like too if you’re interested in checking it out.

Tie-Dye

I don’t know why, but I’m obsessed with the idea of tie-dying stuff right now… it just sounds like fun and you can get kits pretty inexpensively at craft stores online. It’s not just about the rainbow-colored hippie-style tie-dye either. There are lots of different colors and techniques you can do to get the vibe you’re looking for — ice-dying, reverse tie-dye and different folding methods.

Refrigerator Pickles

If you’re looking for something creative you can eat, this one is for you! When people think of canning or pickling, they usually think it’s complicated and you have to make a TON, but that’s not the case! In fact, you can make small batches without having to can them and it’s a lot easier than you think too! As long as you can get your hands on vinegar, jars (or some kind of sealed container), cucumbers and a few spices you’ll be in business! The fun thing about making small-batch pickles too is they’re ready within a couple of days and you can easily make different varieties by adjusting what spices you put in each. This is my go-to brine I use for dill pickles, the key to the brine is the vinegar, water and salt and then the others are optional based on what you’d like to try. Then this is my go-to brine for sweet pickles which I just LOVE!

Freezer Jam

Another thing I always thought was complicated (but it’s not) is making jam! This idea is even better for summer when berries are in season but you can really do it whenever. You can find a lot of different recipes online but this is one I’ve used before on berries from the garden. I’ve used raspberries but also a combo of raspberries and strawberries and it’s turned out delicious every time!

Glass Etching

Another DIY project I learned around Christmas time this year was how to etch glass. If you have a Cricut or Silhouette machine this project is awesome because you can make totally custom stencils. Even if you don’t (those suckers are pricey) you can still get stencils and have just as much fun. I made Evan some custom whiskey glasses for Christmas and was surprised how easy it was to do this project — well, as long as you get the stencil on right! This blog has a great tutorial on the process though and it’s a fun project or gift idea.

Paint Pouring

Admittedly, this is a messier project, but a fun one at that. You can paint canvases, wooden letters, coasters, or notecards — whatever you would like! It’s all about pouring paint onto your surface and then you can move it around so the paint mixes together and creates cool patterns. I was first introduced to the technique at one of the Martha Stewart events I went to with her marbling medium for paints, although you can do it other ways. This blog has a great tutorial that walks you step-by-step through the process.

Calligraphy

Something that has been on my to-do (admittedly for a long time) is learning how to do calligraphy! I’ve always admired people who can do it and now would be a great time to learn. You don’t need too many things to get started either. Plus there are a lot of great online courses including this one from Brit & Co.

Hand Crocheting

I know I’m not the only one who is smitten on those big, chunky yarn throws that show up on home decor shows. they just look so cozy right?! Well, why not make your own? All you really need is a bunk of the yarn and some time it looks like. This website has a great tutorial for learning how to make one for yourself.

Macrame

Macrame is another great idea if you’re looking for something new to try plus something cool to jazz up your house right now. If you’ve got the time, why not try and learn to make your own hanging piece or plant hanger too? I did a little research on the topic around Christmas this year because I got Faith a book and this stood out as a really great option, “Macrame: The Craft of Creative Knotting for Your Home”.

Start Garden Seeds

Gardening season is just around the corner which if you haven’t tried before, I SO recommend! Even if it’s just a balcony or herb garden. I have a whole blog post on getting started with that, but now is a great time to get seeds started and you don’t need anything complicated. Just some seeds, dirt and an egg carton or something else to start them in. This video has a great tutorial on getting started and then you’ll have something to watch grow during this time which is always kind of fun.

Hope you’ve liked these ideas and I’m always pinning new things that sound like fun on my Pinterest account so be sure to follow this board if that sounds like fun!

Feeling a little 🤪going into the second week of working from home?! .

First, I 100% know we are apart of the lucky ones who CAN work from home and I'm def not making light of that. I know wayyy too many people on the frontlines who don't have that option. But I also know that this isn't the norm for a lot of you and it hasn't been easy based on all of my friends BLOWING me up on the topic... So I thought I'd share some of the things that have helped me the most over the last 4+ years! Because this IS my life all the time. Well, the working from home part...

Get your Booty Showered & Dressed Each Day

Get your booty up, showered and dressed in the morning. Better yet if you start your morning with a workout to get your blood pumping! Yes, working in your pjs or sweats every day sounds appealing but getting dressed will put you in a work mindset. Trust me!

Keep Your Space Cleaned Up

Clean up your space! Your home is now also your office and having a clean space will help you have a clear mind. You'll be less likely to get distracted by the dishes in the sink.. the pile of mail you need to go through... and whatever else while you're working if your space is cleaned up! I make a point to clean up my office at the end of each workday so it's fresh and ready for me each morning.

Have a Dedicated Workspace

The next one goes hand-in-hand with the last, have a dedicated workspace. It doesn't matter if that's an actual office in your house, desk or your couch... whatever you pick though, that's your spot for when you're working so you can get in the zone. I have an office... so once I leave my office in the evenings I close up shop on work for the day. If you can, try and do the same with your space.

Stick to a Schedule

Try and stick to a schedule. This includes your work hours but also breaks. I have a Fitbit that makes me get up every hour but make sure you're getting up and moving a little. If you have calls, I also recommend walking around while you're on the phone too if you don't have to be tied to your computer.

Stay Hydrated

Maybe it's just me... but when I worked in an office I was SO much better about drinking water. When you start your day, fill up a glass of water and make sure you drink it throughout the day (plus repeat a few more times!). Our brains always work better when we're hydrated!

Use Headphones

Use headphones for calls/video conferences if you can. I just use the ones that came with my iPhone but it makes it so much easier when your hands are free + the sound quality for conferences is wayyy better than just talking into your computer.

Time Block or Use Timers

Try time blocking or using a timer for tasks. If you're easily distracted, planning your day can help you stay on task. You can either break your hours into what you'll be doing during that time or set a timer for an hour or so and see how much you get done in that time. I find when I have a "deadline" even if self-imposed I stay focused and on-task better.

Shutdown your Computer at the end of the Day

Actually shutdown your computer in the evenings! When your work + home life blurs into one space it can be easier to work late. Which sure, some days will call for that but if you can, try and actually shut your computer down at the end of the day.

Clearly I could go on and on about these! Have any others to add or need more ideas? Let me know!

I'll be honest. Things feel pretty heavvyyyyyyy right now. Things seem to be night and day this week vs last and all of that uncertainty and worry is causing a lot of stress. Trust me, I feel it. Living in Washington state, we’re pretty much ground zero for the pandemic in the United States and it’s a scary feeling.

I know compared to others I’m really privileged in how the situation is affecting me personally right now, but a lot of the people I love the most are on the frontlines of this and don’t have jobs that they can work from home. People like my mom and some of my best friends who are nurses and are putting their health and their families’ health on the line every day to try and care for others. And others like my Dad, Evan and some of my other friends who are truck drivers, work at distribution centers and grocery stores and are pulling 10-12 hour days around the clock to make sure products and supplies are making it to stores and onto shelves.

We all deal with things differently, but for me, writing has always been one of my outlets of choice. Hence why I have this blog! So today I’m taking you along for my own personal therapy sesh and talking about some of the things I’ve already been (or plan on) doing throughout this crisis. I try and find the light in most things but this is less about finding the positivity in the situation and more about being proactive and taking control over the few things I can.

Having a Daily Check-In

First things first, I’m trying to take things a day at a time. With so much uncertainty I think that’s the only way to get through this. Especially given how fast things have progressed. I’m definitely checking in with my loved ones to see how they are and if I can help with anything as long as I’m in good health. I’m also going to be checking in with myself and how I’m feeling and working through that. What we’re going through is A LOT and sometimes you just need to actually take some time to process and just feel some of those emotions — no matter what they are. It’s easy to try and put a brave face on and push them away but sometimes you really just need to sit in them. Like I mentioned, one of the ways I work through things is writing… either on this blog or journaling. There’s something about writing thoughts out that gives me a release and it always helps calm me down. Sometimes it’s more structured (like this blog post) and other times it’s more of me just writing down all of the thoughts I have. My business partner Mallory also put together another awesome blog post that has a great free worksheet for stress management that helps you talk through things that are stressing you out too, which is another great option. There are a lot of different ways to deal with stress and emotions but I think having a daily check-in of some sort is important right now.

Setting Limits on Coverage and Social Media

I am hyperly tuned into media coverage normally. Working from home, I usually have the TV on all day plus I work in social media, so I’m getting hit with the news from all angles. This weekend, I noticed it was really affecting me so I decided it was time to unplug some. If it’s bothering you too, take a break! Turn it all off and do something else. Having a play-by-play isn’t going to change the outcome and it certainly isn’t going to help your mental health any so don’t be afraid to set those boundaries.

Staying Active

Just because a lot of us are home, doesn’t mean you have to stay glued to the couch! Staying active can not only help boost your immune system to help you stay healthy but it’s also a good distraction. There are a lot of really awesome fitness apps that you can do right from home with minimal equipment too! Here are a few that I have personally used and recommend:

• Nike Training Club: Created by Nike, this app has a lot of HIIT workouts ranging anywhere from 5 mins-45 mins and they’re tough too! The best part is they have a ton of free options and even workouts from some of your favorite athletes. You can also select the type of equipment needed and targeted workouts too. If you need more options than just the free workouts, they also have a premium option with more selection.

• Sweat: These workouts will 100% take your mind off of the stress of the world for a good half an hour. I started the BBG program this winter and it has been royally kicking my butt every week since (in a good way). It is a paid app, but they have a week free trial and then it’s pretty affordable if you like it. I love it because it has a set program too that progressively gets harder each week too. Plus there are multiple programs offered.

Beyond at-home workouts, also don’t be afraid to get some fresh air and go for a walk around your neighborhood or at a local park or beach. You can get outdoors while also practicing social-distancing and I promise the fresh air is going to do you well!

Checking Off Lingering Tasks on your To-Do List

We all have tasks on our to-do list that we want to get done eventually but they always get pushed off for more timely tasks. Well, guess what, now is the perfect time to check some of those off your list. You know what I’m talking about things like… Organizing your garage, cleaning out your closet, updating your resume, cleaning up the backyard, or even doing your taxes since so far that hasn’t been postponed. Take a look at the things on your list and spend some of your time checking them off once and for all. If you have kids who are home from school too, maybe you can even talk your family into helping too.

Learning Something New

Have you been itching to take up a new hobby or learn something new? Now could be the time! There are books or Youtube videos on just about everyyyy topic so the sky is the limit on what you could try or learn about. Sure, the libraries may be closed, but if you have a library card take advantage of their ebook and audiobook downloads! We’re talking about free 99 education! If you don’t have a Kindle, you can either read them on your computer or you can also download the Kindle App on your phone too. It’s super convenient. If video is more your jam, then spend some time browsing on Youtube too. I can’t tell you all of the things I’ve taught myself how to do from Youtube…. how to recaulk and regrout a bathtub… Fix a ceiling fan… Different techniques in Photoshop… How to do a fishtail braid… All of the things! Learning something new is a great way to occupy your mind and hey you might find something you’re really into even after things calm down!

Brainstorming New Business Ideas

One of the things keeping me going the most are some of the ideas we’ve been brainstorming at Bold & Pop. Being a business owner, a lot of our careers are uncertain to an extent all of the time but this is certainly uncharted territory. Throughout the ups and downs in our business, we’ve adopted the mindset “panic to proactive”. This basically means, when things start getting stressful we try to flip the script and start brainstorming action-based solutions. Because coming up with new ideas during the unknown is a lot more productive than just panicking! With the stock market tumbling and the talks of a recession following this, we’ve been focused on coming up with ideas for other ways we can serve our audience as well as ways to diversify our income.

Even if you don’t have a business yet, this downtime gives you ample time to brainstorm a side hustle or new business venture you’ve been thinking for a while too. Have you always wanted to have a dog-walking business, how about selling that really awesome jam you make? Or maybe it’s time to finally start on that book or blog you’ve been talking about starting for years. Now is the perfect time to quit just talking about it, and start taking steps to make it happen.

Binge-Watching Some Happy Light-Hearted Shows and Movies

You don’t have to JUST do things that are productive either. For me, I gravitate to those because I feel a sense of accomplishment checking things off or getting lost in a passion project. Sometimes you just need to veg out and relax. Everyone has their own taste, but I’ll more than likely be focused on watching some mindless happy-go-lucky shows or movies. I’m talking… Hart of Dixie, Grace & Frankie, and Frozen II (now that it was released early)… Heck, I may even watch thee T-Swift documentary again!

No matter what you decide to do, hang in there crew and do whatever you can to stay healthy! We likely have a ways to go before life starts feeling normal again but we’re going to get there again so just do the best you can right now!