Navigating Life’s Changes as an Artist and Parent

Today, I want to talk about something I know many of us struggle with—balancing life's changes as both an artist and a parent. Recently, I went through a major transition myself: moving from Munich, Germany, to Washington State, USA. Phew! As an artist, I'm usually in the flow, creating 15 to 20 artworks a month, including studies. But September? It was a different story. With the chaos of moving, I only managed to finish two pieces. Isn’t it fascinating how life can suddenly shift our plans, no matter how well we think we have it all under control?

The Weeks Leading to Our Move

The ten days before our move were especially wild. The weather in Munich took a sharp turn—after a beautiful, sunny weekend, rain started on Monday as if the universe was nudging me to wrap things up and get ready for the next chapter. Just a few days before we left, I had an unfortunate accident—I spilled matcha latte all over my laptop. That little moment derailed my plans for administrative work and completely shifted my focus onto the move.

When the movers arrived, I found myself in a whirlwind of emotions. I remember a moment when I just lost it and shouted to my partner, "I'm not ready! Can you handle this?" I was overwhelmed and projected my stress onto him. Later, as I reflected, I realized how much that behavior mirrored my own mother during my teenage years. My mornings growing up were tense—my mom ran a school from our home, and the pressure she felt often spilled over onto us. I remember wanting to avoid that energy and stay away. Now, as a parent myself, I understand her struggles in a new way. It’s easy to let the weight of stress take over when communication feels impossible.

New Beginnings in Washington

Fast forward to our arrival in Washington. It’s been 12 days filled with endless tasks—finding a permanent home, getting a driver’s license, opening a bank account, and keeping up with the admin side of my art and podcast. Despite all this effort, I still haven't picked up a paintbrush. And you know what? That’s okay. Tomorrow will be the day I dive back in, but I’m being gentle with myself. Sometimes we just need to honor the transitions and give our creativity space to reemerge when it’s ready.

I recently listened to an episode of Laura Horn’s podcast where she talks about the same struggles many artists face during periods of change. It’s reassuring to know that we’re not alone in this—that the creative life comes with ups and downs. But we can find our way through these transitions with a little patience and care.

Finding Balance: 3 Strategies

Through this experience, I’ve found that these three strategies can help keep a balance between artistic and personal life, especially during times of change:

1. Time Blocking
   Set specific time slots for your creative work and your administrative tasks. By separating these two activities, you mentally prepare for each switch. For instance, reserve your mornings for art and your afternoons for the business side. This structure helps you focus and gives each aspect of your life the attention it deserves.

2. Rituals
   Develop small rituals that signal a transition between tasks. Whether it’s taking a few deep breaths, doing a short meditation, or spinning a little wooden top (one of my personal favorites), rituals can reset your mind and prepare you for your next focus. I also enjoy practicing a quick Zen-inspired circle exercise with a watercolor brush—it’s simple but helps me reflect on my mental state.

3. Set Clear Boundaries
   Establish boundaries to prevent overlap between your creative and administrative roles. Create a dedicated workspace for art and another for your other tasks. Beyond physical boundaries, it's important to set boundaries with those you live with. I tell my partner not to come into my studio for a few hours because that space is sacred when I'm in the creative zone.

Allowing Time to Transition

As I slowly settle into this new chapter of my life, I’m giving myself the space and grace to transition. We haven’t even found a permanent home yet, and we're still living in a service apartment. But that’s okay. I know it’s going to take time to shift from the administrative side of this move back into my creative flow. And that’s okay, too.

Art will always be there, waiting for us to return. It doesn’t go away; it just pauses, giving us the space we need to breathe and reflect.

To anyone navigating their own transitions—remember to take your time. Art, like life, is a journey, not a race.