The Art of Unplugging: Why Entrepreneurs need to embrace the holiday break.

Recharging the Creative Soul: A Photographer’s Perspective

As an entrepreneur, in the dynamic world of photography, I often find myself caught in the relentless pursuit of perfection and progress. However, as the festive cheer of Christmas envelops us, it’s crucial to remember the art of taking a break. This isn’t just a luxury but a vital strategy to reset recharge and prepare for 2024.

Disconnecting to Connect Better

In today’s hyper-connected world, the idea of stepping away from social media might seem daunting. However, Dr. Alex Pang, author of “Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less,” emphasises the importance of deliberate rest for creativity and productivity. He suggests that periods of disconnection are not just restorative but are also when our subconscious solves complex problems – a phenomenon critical for photographers seeking creative breakthroughs. I literally have removed FB from my phone for the week between Christmas and New Years Day. This is a huge step as I am normally connected at the hip 24/7.

The Reflective Retreat

Retrospective thinking, especially during a serene period like Christmas, allows for a deeper understanding of our journey. Harvard Business School professor Francesca Gino stresses the benefits of reflective practices. Her studies reveal that professionals who regularly reflect on their experiences are more productive and happier in their careers. For a photographer, this could mean revisiting past works, understanding growth patterns, and setting future artistic goals. This review is completed at the beginning of December – a year in review. 

Here are my five cups of joy I exercise during this void. 

Reading: For creatives, who often work under pressure and tight deadlines, reading offers a much-needed escape, allowing their minds to relax and rejuvenate. This mental break can lead to higher productivity and a refreshed creative vision. I listen to many books throughout the year, on my way to jobs or travelling. I find the time in the car helps me think and it also keeps me awake. The act of physically reading though signals precious rest time. I see it as a luxury which I may need to change this story. Gardening: It’s a natural form of meditation that encourages mindfulness, drawing one’s focus away from the chaos of daily life and into the present moment. Additionally, gardening involves nurturing and witnessing growth, which is incredibly satisfying and therapeutic. For myself, grounding in the garden is not just a hobby but a powerful tool for mental rejuvenation, fostering a sense of connection to the natural world and unlocking a deeper level of creative thinking. Cooking: This year I have found cooking to be more of an act of necessity rather than an expression of creativity. There’s been many a time we have eaten out due to the reluctance to think about cooking and the cleaning. When I am constantly having to make decisions and planning sessions, the last thing I want to do is to decide what’s for dinner. So being able to experiment in the kitchen again is such a release. One of my primary love languages is to give gifts of service and being able to create from scratch and feed those I love is self gratifying.  Painting: Engaging in painting fosters creativity in a different medium. I’m certainly no Michael Angelo however the ability to let go of constraints and precision when using watercolours is such a relaxing exercise. The release of judgement and doing something for myself is a gift in itself.  Walking: this one I want to do more of. It’s a discipline I know has many benefits. Not just for me but also our two dogs. I am often at the computer for 10-14 hours and walking allows the body to loosen the muscles and also gain a clearer perspective. 

Embracing the Pause

During this festive season, let’s remember that taking a break isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. It’s a time to recharge, reflect, and reignite our passions, allowing us to return with renewed vigor and fresh perspectives. Let’s unplug, reflect, and indulge in activities that fill our cups, ensuring that we start the new year not just as better entrepreneurs but as more fulfilled individuals.