Well to me it's a cross between 'stuck in a rut' (clearly what normal people say), and 'no idea what I'm doing'. It actually makes it sound a bit jollier than it really is. I'd like to be stuck in a different kind of funk. An Uptown Funk maybe. WOAH. I'm not even kidding, about two minutes after I typed that sentence, Uptown Funk came on the radio. Am I in the Truman Show or something?! Excuse me for two minutes while I demonstrate my incredible and underrated dance moves to Margot the dog. (Nick's Dad's dog...not mine)
Ok I'm back and Margot has left the room in embarrassment. At least she's not climbing on my lap and attempting to place her chewed up toy IN MY ACTUAL MOUTH as I try and type, which is our usual relationship dynamic.
I'm not going to bore you with my predicament at the moment, as it was summed up morosely in my last post. Things are crawling forward; it was never going to be a speedy ride. Nick is on a roll and is applying for jobs left, right and center. We still don't have an exact area in mind to live in and we're leaning towards the South West coast, but a couple of jobs in Scotland have appeared so who knows. I'm pretty relaxed about either location, although the south coast is quite a fair bit warmer, plus I love cider.
I am attempting to break into the world of freelance writing. Unfortunately for you, this probably means I will be sharing more blog posts like this, and links to articles I've written for other sites AND FORCE YOU TO READ THEM. ALL OF THEM. OK?
The upside of this is that if it works out, I can work pretty much anywhere so there's less pressure on both of us finding a job at the same time in the same place. Also we can get a dog. I feel like I mention wanting to get a dog in every blog post no matter what the initial subject is.
The downside is that it involves a lot of hustling, something as as serial 'sorry to bother you but if you get a sec could you take a look at this please ONLY if you have time of course sorry, sorry, sorry' type, I'm not amazing at yet.
It's a strange time at the moment. We're in a sort of limbo and it's easy for us to feel frustrated, misunderstood and worried (we are millennials after all!) or just feel stuck in a big ol' FUNK. However, noticing this is important as is making an active attempt to get out of it. With this in mind, here are the ways I'm trying to bring myself out of my funky funk:
1. Appreciating the small things
I honestly can't remember the last time Mum and I sat in the living room with a cup of tea just chatting and doing...nothing. For the past few years every time we'd see each other it would be for a celebration, or a quick visit where we'd have to cram in as much as possible. There is such a joy in just hanging out, talking or watching T.V. I know I've been pretty moody and difficult since getting home (does anybody else revert back to their teenage self when they're with their parents?!) but my rents have been so patient and kind to me, and I really appreciate them.
2. Going OUTSIDE
I am terrible for this. I absolutely love the outdoors, I feel rejuvenated and alive the moment I step out the front door and gulp in some fresh air. I get excited just seeing a squirrel. HOWEVER. I am also one of the laziest people I know and could quite possibly spend five days in a row without leaving the house if I was left on my own. This almost happened last week. If it wasn't for Nick I may have become a hermit by now, but I must keep reminding myself how important it is to leave the house every day. It's an instant psychological boost.
3. Getting crafty
When I moved to New Zealand I got into creating my own cross-stitches and embroidery. The act of creating does wonders for my mood and motivation. It makes me feel productive and like I've achieved something, which I think is important especially when I'm not working. As Nick Offerman so wisely puts: "Making anything with one's hands is a very healthy pursuit." Well said Nick. I completely agree.
4. Making time for my buds
This one has been tricky. I'm not earning at the moment so have to be incredibly careful with what I spend my money on. Our family and friends were the sole reason we came home, yet seeing them right now requires a lot of travel and spending. Seeing my buddies gives me such a boost though, so I think any money spent on getting to them is completely worth it. They inspire me, make me laugh and remind me why I'm here.
5. Keep writing
When I spoke to Kate (bestie) about my idea of freelance writing for a living, she encouraged me to just write something every day, to get the juices flowing. Even if its just for me to read. I took her advice and have been writing (mostly nonsense) each day about how I'm feeling, or something that's inspired me that day. It's been amazing and she was totally right of course - it really has helped me find my 'writing voice' and each day I find I have a new idea of a piece I want to write about. Now I just need to find a way to get paid to do it! ANYONE?!
*tumbleweed*
