Designing a ‘Stress-Free’ Summer: Tips for Creatives

Consider this your SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE for creative entrepreneurs like YOU! Summer is quickly approaching and we all want to enjoy time with our kids, partners, pets… at the beach, in the pool or just at home, don’t we? I am going to share a few tips that I have learned along the way that has helped to keep my sanity and enjoy my breaks more. Don’t get me wrong, it doesn’t always go according to plan but I try. That’s the best we can do, right? We try and if everything else fails, just have fun! Your work will be waiting for you at the end of the summer.

Getting ready for summer? School is almost out here in Kenya, and I hear you! It’s challenging to juggle everything during this season. I love summer, but it’s hard to keep the business going, spend quality time with your children, and maintain your social media presence all at once.

In my opinion, you have to choose. You can’t do it all without burning out. I chose to focus on spending time with my girls because this is the last summer they will be this young! :) However, there are some things you can do to manage both your family and your business effectively.

If I had to picture myself working during the summer, it would definitely look like this. I would be seating by the pool in Greece with some amazing views of the ocean drawing on my ipad.

Or watercoloring at dusk while drinking tea surrounded by the perfect landscape filled with orange trees and old church in the background. HOWEVER, this rarely, if ever, the case. I know it. You know it. We ALL know it!

Balancing Summer and Kids: Tips for CREATIVES

We take a long summer break. We go to Spain so my girls can immerse themselves in the language and culture that otherwise very rarely get to experience. But this means, that I am on my own for two months with two very active children. I have little to no time for myself. If I am working I feel guilty that I am not paying attention to them. If I am with them I feel guilty that I am working. Overtime, I have learned a few tips that have helped me make the most of the summer and staying productive while enjoying family time!

So here are some tips I have learned over the years to prevent frustration, burnt out, and enjoy my time. WARNING: it’s a work in progress so if you have any tips of your own, please SHARE!

1.- Schedule Content in Advance

One of the best ways to ensure your business runs smoothly during the summer is to schedule your content ahead of time. Take a few days before the summer break starts to create and schedule your social media posts, newsletters, and blog entries. Tools like the Meta Business Suite from Facebook can help you with scheduling your Instagram and Facebook posts. Your website and newsletter will also have an option to schedule blog posts and emails in advanced. Theses tools can be lifesavers, allowing you to maintain a consistent online presence without daily effort.

2.- Work on Fun Projects

To keep your creativity flowing without feeling overwhelmed, focus on fun projects that don’t feel like work. I love drawing with my girls, so we always bring our watercolors along. This not only allows me to spend quality time with them but also keeps me engaged in creative activities that can later inspire or even be used in my future collections!

3.- Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is crucial. Look for summer camps or activities that your kids can enjoy. These programs can provide you with some dedicated work hours while ensuring your children are having a great time. It’s a win-win situation!

4.- take advantage Inside Play Areas

Find inside play areas or activity centers. These places are fantastic for hot summer days, and they often have coffee shops where you can squeeze in a few work hours. My girls love these places, and it gives me the opportunity to catch up on emails or sketch out new design ideas while they play.

5.- Stay Calm and have fun!

Most importantly, remain calm and have fun! Summer is a time to enjoy and create lasting memories with your family. Stressing out will only make things harder. Embrace the chaos and remember that you are incredible and committed. Balancing your career and family is no small feat, and you are doing an amazing job.

These moments are what matters…

Enjoy!

Remember:

• You are incredible: Balancing work and family is tough, but you’re doing it!

• Stay committed: Keep your eye on the big picture, and don’t be too hard on yourself.

• Enjoy the moment: Your kids won’t be this young forever. Cherish the time you have with them now.

Try implementing these tips, so you can enjoy a fulfilling summer with your children while keeping your surface pattern design business on track. If you have any other ideas feel free to share them.

Happy summer, you got this!

Ana