Creative Afternoons and Relaxing Evenings: Redefining My Work Routine

In my journey to optimize my work routine, the transformation didn't end with structuring my mornings. After a productive start, I wanted to ensure that my afternoons and evenings were equally fulfilling and aligned with my creative goals. This led me to reevaluate how I spent the latter parts of my day, ultimately shaping a schedule that nurtures both my artistic endeavours and personal well-being.

Afternoons are now reserved for the setup and cleaning of my studio, creation, and experimentation. This segment of the day is where the magic happens. As a creator, having a clean and organized space is paramount. I find it almost therapeutic to start each session with a spotless studio. It’s like preparing a blank canvas for new ideas. The act of cleaning is meditative, a way to clear my mind and set the stage for creativity.

Once my studio is ready, I dive into the heart of my work—creating and experimenting. This is the time I allow myself to explore without boundaries. Whether I’m working on a new painting, refining a photograph, or trying out a novel technique, the afternoons are dedicated to pure, unfiltered creativity. This shift has been incredibly liberating. Previously, I would squeeze in these activities whenever I found time, often leading to a disjointed and rushed process. Now, with a set time for creation, I can immerse myself fully, producing work that truly resonates with my artistic vision.

Experimentation is a crucial part of my afternoon routine. It’s during these hours that I push the boundaries of my comfort zone, trying out new mediums, styles, or concepts. This period of trial and error is essential for growth. Not every experiment is successful, but each one teaches me something valuable. The freedom to play and explore has rekindled my passion for art, reminding me why I chose this path in the first place.

After a day filled with productivity and creativity, my evenings are dedicated to relaxation through sketching. This might seem like a continuation of work, but it’s quite the opposite. Sketching in the evening is my way of unwinding, a form of meditation where my mind can wander freely. There are no expectations, no pressure to create something perfect. It’s a time to let my thoughts flow onto the paper, capturing ideas, emotions, and fleeting moments of inspiration.

The transition to this new schedule hasn’t been without its challenges. Initially, I struggled with the discipline required to adhere to such a structured routine. There were days when I felt the urge to skip the cleaning or cut short my experimentation time. However, I soon realized that consistency is key. By sticking to this routine, I’ve created a rhythm that supports my creative process, allowing me to produce work that I’m truly proud of.

Balancing work and relaxation has been another significant benefit of this new schedule. By compartmentalizing my day, I’ve been able to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The mornings are for productivity, the afternoons for creation, and the evenings for relaxation. This clear division has helped prevent burnout, ensuring that I have the energy and enthusiasm to continue my work each day.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this schedule is the sense of accomplishment it brings. Knowing that I’ve dedicated time to all aspects of my work—from the administrative tasks to the creative exploration—gives me a profound sense of fulfillment. Each day feels complete, with every part of my routine contributing to my overall growth as an artist.

Redefining my work routine to include structured afternoons and relaxing evenings has been a whole experience. By dedicating my afternoons to studio setup, creation, and experimentation, I’ve unlocked new levels of creativity and productivity. The evenings, spent sketching, provide a much-needed balance, allowing me to unwind and reflect on the day’s work. This new schedule has not only enhanced my professional output but also enriched my personal well-being, creating a harmonious blend of work and relaxation. As I continue to refine this routine, I’m excited to see how it will further shape my creative journey and personal growth.