Finding a healthy work-life balance
I recently did what lots of people are having to do – I took on another job, a ‘side hustle’ as it’s sometimes known! For me, it’s not about needing to earn extra cash so much, I’m lucky in that regard, but it was more about getting out a bit more and not being so solitary.
I suppose I’m taking on an extra job to improve my work-life balance which might be a bit topsy-turvy, we’ll see!
Being an artist can be a bit lonely at times. True, we love our own company and being immersed in a piece of artistic endeavour. And of course I get to meet wonderful people who attend my Artistic ReTreats Powertex workshops, but as we’re in the firm grip of the cost of living crisis, my bookings are down a bit and I’ve been feeling hemmed in by the four walls of my home and studio.
My side hustle is working a few hours a week at the Greenhouse Café at a local garden centre and I absolutely love it! The advert popped up at exactly the right time, when I was starting to think about what I wanted to do. From my first trial shift, I have enjoyed my time there and the team are wonderful.
It’s typical that I’ve had a mini-flurry of workshop bookings since taking my new job but it just means that I need to be more focused and organised on my Artistic ReTreats days (Friday – Monday) and make sure that I’m still leaving time for family so that I’m able to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
The world of work has changed for so many people and I’m by no means alone in splitting my time between different areas of work. People in office jobs gained more flexibility during the pandemic and are making the most of it by using their additional time to focus on something extra, whether that’s for money, fulfilment or a bit of variation.
Work on something you love
I am very lucky that I love my ‘main job’ of Powertex art and sculpture. Many people’s side hustles were born out of a hobby or interest – it’s easier to find the motivation to work those extra hours on something you really love to do.
Work-life balance
It’s essential to make sure that you don’t risk burnout by taking on too much at once. I was lucky that the hours offered at the Greenhouse Café perfectly fit my needs to do school pick ups and continue with my Powertex workshops.
Organisation is key
Juggling a business and another job alongside family commitments definitely takes lots of organisation but I find that when I’m busy, I’m better at organising myself. I use a detailed diary to schedule time and keep on top of all my obligations.
I’m finding that I’m looking forward to my workshops more than ever! I have a renewed enthusiasm for Powertex and Artistic ReTreats. So why not come and join me to discover a new artform or to develop your skills further? All my workshops can be found at the Artistic ReTreats website.
Photo by Jeremy Thomas on Unsplash
