creativity grows where monotony sits...

As a fellow-blogger, fashionista, graphic designer and blossoming yogi, who better to write Wholehearter's first guest post than my inspiring friend, Lianna? She has some wonderful thoughts on shifting your focus and finding creativity in the most unlikely places. As an inspiration for your art, craft or daily life, enjoy her post!

It's that time again.  It snuck up on you, didn't it?  Just like a hungry zombie…doesn't it always? Time to clean the house, time to wash the clothes, time to mow grass, time to organize the garage (hopefully not all at once, though).  Oh, how we dread these moments…a perfectly good day that we have to watch swirl slowly and begrudgingly down the drain…harumph! >:-(  But wait, these normally arduous tasks can be used to your advantage.  You may not fully realize it, but these monotonous moments can be and lead to some of the most creative aspects of your day! 

Think about it.  Inspiration for whatever creative project you're working on doesn't flow directly to your mind when you sit down to create it (and if you're not working on a creative project, keep reading, this post might just help you find that creative project longing for your attention).  Inspiration is the key to any creative force.  And if you, like me, are a creator on a daily basis, finding inspiration doesn't always come easy.  So I give you this mission, should you choose to accept it.  While you're working hard dusting your wall art, separating your brights, pulling weeds on a bright, hot sunny day, or going through that old box of books, grab your inspiration while it's practically slapping you in the face! 

Look at that wall art you're dusting…you see it everyday, but do you actually take the time to look at it?  See that tiny couple walking at a mountain's pace around that 18th century village square…what a story they could tell!  What about those brights you're separating…those plum pants and that red striped tee make the perfect color combination for the ice cream shop logo you're working on!  You're drenched in sweat as you sit in the boiling sun pulling dirt and grass from the ground.  But listen, do you hear that bee buzzing in your ear, the birds chirping in an almost harmony, that faint bass beat of a passing car with it's stereo blaring, and your neighbor's radio (or I guess iPod, nowadays) slowly churning out that oldies tune you haven't heard in years, as they wash their car.  Listen close, this tune's kinda catchy!  Oh the garage, what a feat…and oh what forgotten treasures are hidden here, too!   While looking through the box of old books from your grandma, you come across a vintage cook book that has become new again with age…it's so funny how that works.  That recipe for almond flavored icing might just be the perfect touch to your "Fluff and Stuff" vanilla cake!

And while this practice can be effective for a lot of your chores, there are certain chores where direct inspiration might not come to you…for instance, while cleaning the toilet… and that's probably for the best.   So when you might not be able to draw this direct inspiration, let your imagination run wild!  Of course, be sure to pay attention to what your doing, but feel free to let your mind wander into distant lands, for creativity has no bounds!  This is a little different than chores, but every morning, during my usual "getting ready" routine, my mind is always buzzing with wording for wedding invitations and all the possibilities for the vintage-inspired aspect of my invitation designs! 

So keep in mind, when you have those dreaded chores to lumber through, this time your spending might not be such a waste because creativity can grow where monotony sits!  

Wonderful food-for-thought where you least expect any productive thoughts. Keep this positive attitude in mind for your next monotonous task! If you want some more of Lianna's inspiration, please be sure to check out her adorable Etsy page here, full of custom vintage cards and invitations. Thanks, Lianna! :)

home sweet work

Have you ever thought of your workplace as cozy? Yes, I know, for some occupations, that might be a stretch. If you're on the road working from your car, working in retail or with food, you might not have as much of an opportunity to create a personalized and welcoming space for yourself.

But if you do work in an office or have some sort of station to call your own each day, the quality of this area can play a big role in your mood and productivity. While you may not be able to control some factors such as wall color, furniture or feng shui, you can usually control the amount of clutter, cleanliness, lighting and personal flair. All of which can either encourage or discourage productivity.

My own little diorama.

I'm blessed to work in a an office that was already pretty homey well before I came along. Each of us has our own little area that we lovingly refer to as our dioramas. Opening on one side to huge windows and high ceilings, our dioramas don't look or feel like cubicles.

View of 3 dioramas.

But regardless of your staring point, there might be something you can do to improve your space. Here are some simple ideas for making your office feel a little less officey:

• Keep it clean and functional. Whether your office is in your car, at a desk or from your home, buy some organizers if needed and make an effort to keep things where they should be.

Clean and clutter-free workspace. Don't forget to actually clean your desk, mouse and keyboard often with a disinfectant; otherwise, they can literally harbor more germs than a public restroom!

• Have a space for snacks. You might be mocked for having a snack locker, cupboard or drawer, but guess where co-workers come crying when they're in need? Who doesn't want tea or chocolate on a bad day? Knowing that I have a backup for a forgotten lunch or healthy snacks available throughout my busy day is comforting and helps keep me focused and on task.

My lovely snack locker at work.

• Add personal flair. Once you get settled in to your office, it's easy to overlook bringing in decorations or things from home. If you don't have anything other than the necessities, try adding a few photos, plants or nick-knacks that make you smile and boost your mood.

Little things from home like a favorite mug can make a huge difference in your mood.

• Dress comfortably. While staying within the requirements of your dress-code, consider more loose-fitting clothes, comfortable shoes and breathable fabrics. No one has to know if you're wearing luxurious fluffy socks, but you'll thank yourself later. I also like to keep a few backup things in my locker like a spare sweatshirt and an extra pair of socks for a soggy-footed rainy day.
• Bring an adorable dog with you. I know, I know. I'm spoiled and animals are definitely not possible for many offices. If you work in an environment where it might be a possibility every once in a while or if you've never asked, what are you waiting for?

If you can't bring a dog to work, consider a fish. They're cool too.

 Next time you're in your office, take a look around. If you absolutely cannot improve what you've got, maybe it's time to work on changing your mindset. Make the best of it because either way, you'll surely be spending a lot of time there! :P