JOURNALS

Today was all about trying to focus while dealing with a headache and managing a shorter workday. I started the morning feeling optimistic, even with the looming hospital appointment. My main task was context switching effectively without wasting too much time. I struggle with moving from one task to another without taking unnecessary breaks. I guess it's a habit I need to break.

First up, I plotted a thank-you postcard and then moved on to creating some art for a friend. I enjoy these smaller, personal projects as they reconnect me with the joy of making art. By mid-morning, I was working on a birthday card. It's always nice to make something that will mean a lot to someone.

By midday, I switched gears and tackled some admin work, including writing invoices. Not the most thrilling part of the day, but necessary. After lunch, around 12:30, I took a bit of time to relax and eat something simple, chicken soup, which I always find oddly comforting.

Because of the hospital visit, I had to cut my workday short. This made me focus on sticking to the planned breaks and pacing myself to avoid worsening my headache.

During the day, I realized I didn't get as much done as I'd hoped. The small headache that was brewing in the morning didn't fully manifest, so that's a win. However, it was clear that I needed a slower day.

As I wrapped things up, I reflected on the most fulfilling parts of my tasks today. I particularly enjoyed getting the cards written and sent out. That felt satisfying. The challenge of balancing work and self-care was noticeable today, but I managed to keep the headache at bay by taking breaks as planned.

For tomorrow, I need Kitty to write a thank-you card and book the car park for my youngest's maths exam in Coventry. There's also more #Weeknotes video editing to be done. The aim is to try and keep on top of things while managing the shorter days here and there.

Heading into the evening, I took some time to just chill, soaking in the quiet end of the day. While I didn't shoot or edit much video for #Weeknotes today, the invoices were sent out, which was much needed. Tomorrow, I hope to catch up on what I missed today and continue balancing my tasks better.

So that's where I am, ending the day with a sense of acceptance that not every day will be as productive as planned. All in all, it felt like a day of small victories despite the interruptions and shorter work hours. I managed to avoid making the headache worse and got some vital tasks done. Here's to hoping tomorrow brings a smoother workflow and less need for breaks.

The reflection and goal-setting helped me stay on track even though the day's pace felt off. Self-care, scheduling, and admin - none of it glamorous but all of it part of keeping the studio and my sanity running smoothly.