A Day in the Life of a Multi-talented YouTuber and Calligrapher

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Morning Routine
3. Breakfast and Mindfulness
4. Time Blocking and Productivity
5. The Pomodoro Technique
6. Work-Life Balance
7. Facing Business Dilemmas
8. Lunch Break and Standing Desk
9. Handling Social Media Pressure
10. Wrapping Up the Day

Article

Introduction

In this article, I will provide you with a realistic glimpse into my daily life as a calligrapher, YouTube creator, Etsy shop owner, and creative entrepreneur. While many portray their lives as super aesthetic and perfect on social media, I want to give you an authentic and non-aesthetic perspective. From my morning routine to work-life balance struggles, I will take you through a typical day in my life.

Morning Routine

I start my day around 7:00 in the morning, and if the weather allows, I go out for a run. Running is not only a form of exercise for me but also a therapeutic activity that helps me relieve stress and calm my mind. If I can't go for a run, I opt for a YouTube workout instead. After my workout, I have a simple breakfast consisting of a glass of milk with decaf coffee powder for flavor, whole wheat toast with peanut butter, and an egg. This routine provides me with the energy I need to kickstart my day.

Breakfast and Mindfulness

While having my breakfast, I like to listen to a podcast or engage in a guided meditation to set a positive and focused mindset for the day ahead. Taking these few moments of mindfulness helps me clear my thoughts and prepare for the tasks at hand. Occasionally, I also journal to unload any racing thoughts or concerns that may be occupying my mind.

Time Blocking and Productivity

One of my key strategies for productivity is time blocking. I divide my day into specific time intervals dedicated to different tasks and activities. This practice helps me stay focused, organized, and ensures that I allocate enough time to each task. By following a structured schedule, I can make the most of the limited work hours I have in a day.

The Pomodoro Technique

To enhance my productivity further, I implement the Pomodoro Technique. This technique involves working in focused sprints of 25 minutes followed by short breaks of 5 minutes. During these 25-minute work intervals, I immerse myself in deep work, uninterrupted by distractions. The 5-minute breaks allow me to recharge, stretch, and attend to minor tasks such as going to the washroom or getting some water. This time management technique has proven to be highly effective in keeping me motivated and productive throughout the day.

Work-Life Balance

As a creative professional, I understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. While I used to work longer hours in the past, I have now realized the significance of setting boundaries and ensuring ample time for rest and personal activities. Following the advice of Cal Newport, the author of "Deep Work," I limit my deep creative or intellectual work to a maximum of 4 hours a day. This approach prevents burnout and allows me to allocate time for other essential tasks such as responding to emails, messages from my Etsy shop, and comments on my YouTube videos.

Facing Business Dilemmas

Running a creative business often entails making difficult decisions. I encounter dilemmas that require thoughtful consideration of various factors. One example is the struggle to balance promoting new products or courses with actual sales. In the midst of this dilemma, I navigate the uncertain territory of whether or not to continue investing time and effort into a project that has yet to yield the desired results. These decisions involve weighing the potential return on investment, customer interest, and personal fulfillment. While it can be challenging, I trust my instincts and experiences to guide me towards the best course of action.

Lunch Break and Standing Desk

After a morning of focused work, I take a break for lunch. I usually have leftovers from the previous day's meal while listening to a podcast or enjoying some quiet time. To aid digestion and avoid sedentary behavior, I move my laptop to a makeshift standing desk, allowing me to work in an upright position for about half an hour. This change in posture helps reenergize my body and mind, ensuring that I remain productive throughout the day.

Handling Social Media Pressure

As a creator with an online presence, I understand the pressure and comparison that can arise from social media. It is crucial to remember that social media platforms present a curated view of people's lives, often showcasing only the highlights and successes. Behind the scenes, there are moments of self-doubt, dilemmas, and struggles that aren't shared with the world. It is essential to focus on personal growth and progress rather than comparing oneself to others' highlight reels.

Wrapping Up the Day

As the day progresses, I continue to work on my various tasks, from clearing emails and responding to comments to engaging with my Etsy shop and creating calligraphy artwork. I make a conscious effort to prioritize my mental well-being and practice self-care. At times, this entails making difficult decisions about balancing work and personal life. The day ends with reflection and the understanding that business success does not define my worth as a person. My journey as a creative entrepreneur is filled with ups and downs, but I embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth.

Highlights

• Experience a realistic and non-aesthetic insight into a day in the life of a calligrapher, YouTube creator, Etsy shop owner, and creative entrepreneur.
• Learn about the importance of morning routines, including exercise, mindful breakfasts, and setting a positive mindset.
• Discover the effectiveness of time blocking and the Pomodoro Technique for enhancing productivity.
• Understand the value of a healthy work-life balance, including limiting deep work hours and balancing essential tasks.
• Gain insights into the dilemmas faced by creative business owners and the decision-making process involved.
• Explore the significance of self-care, breaks, and standing desks for maximizing productivity and well-being.
• Learn strategies for handling social media pressure and avoiding comparisons.
• Reflect on the importance of personal growth and progress, separate from business success.

FAQ

Q: How do you balance work and dating as a creative entrepreneur? A: Balancing work and dating can be challenging, especially for busy creative entrepreneurs. It requires effective time management, setting boundaries, and open communication with your partner. Prioritizing self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are also essential.

Q: Can you provide tips for starting a creative business? A: Certainly! When starting a creative business, it's important to identify your passion and target audience. Research the market, create a solid business plan, and establish a strong online presence through platforms like YouTube or Etsy. Network with other professionals in your industry, continuously learn and improve your craft, and never be afraid to take risks.

Q: How do you handle business dilemmas and decision-making processes? A: When faced with business dilemmas, I analyze the situation from different angles, consider potential risks and benefits, and trust my instincts. Consulting with mentors or seeking advice from trusted individuals can also provide valuable insights. Ultimately, I make decisions based on a balance of data, intuition, and the alignment of my goals and values.

Q: How do you manage social media pressure and avoid comparisons? A: Managing social media pressure involves reminding myself that what is seen online is often a curated version of reality. I focus on my own progress, rather than comparing myself to others. Taking breaks from social media, practicing self-care, and surrounding myself with a supportive community also help maintain a healthy perspective.

Q: How do you prioritize self-care amidst a busy schedule? A: Prioritizing self-care requires setting clear boundaries and making intentional choices. I allocate time for rest, relaxation, and activities that bring me joy. This includes regular exercise, mindfulness practices, spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and taking breaks throughout the day to recharge.