A few months back, during some downtime, I found myself reflecting on the last time inspiration came effortlessly and creativity flowed freely.
Honestly, it was in the years before my cell phone.
Before the always-present, always-on, constant connection. Before the dings and buzzes, the texts and emails, the Instagram messages, Facebook posts, and step tracking. It was long before I felt like I had to respond to every little thing immediately, every time; before I took my iPhone everywhere, even in the forest (I mean, you never know when you’re going to get kidnapped, right?); before I took my iPhone into my studio to listen to a podcast or to zoom here and there.
In the before times, I remember feeling full of ideas and boundless creativity. I was always making things, all sorts of things. I was plugged-in, connected, and inspired. I listened and I was interested. I had room for it all. It was good back then. I had energy and was grounded in some good fertile soil.
So…
I’ve been putting my phone down more and more, and looking up. I stopped wearing my Apple Watch, which I mainly used to track my movement (I mean, geez Laura, you’re either moving or you’re not, figure it out). I’ve stopped with the podcasts and started reading books again and listening to more music, even breaking out the vinyl. I’m getting lost in the garden and the trees, no phone in sight. I’m sitting quietly outside with my morning coffee, just taking it all in—not streaming or surfing or browsing—just sitting.
I’ve started to see the world around me in a new, yet beautifully familiar light. Without the constant digital noise, my thoughts have room to breathe and flow. I feel more rested. Calmer. Joyful. And, my creative flame has been sparked, which, it turns out, may have just been buried under a pile of notifications and alerts.
Now, of course, cell phones are an essential part of our lives, but I really needed to find balance and set boundaries. It is challenging at times, but I’m learning to make myself available to the world around me, once again. And I’m realizing that perhaps it’s not about seeking creativity and inspiration, but rather about creating the space for it to come and find you.
Love,
Laura. xo
"Feeling stuck? For goodness’ sake, give yourself a chance and put down your cell phone. Look up. Connect with yourself and others. Connect with the wild grasses and tall trees. It’s all there waiting for you, and it’s magnificent." ~Laura Harris
#lauraharrisretreats #whowereyoubeforeyourcellphone
