When life gets overwhelming, I give myself permission to take a day off from it all. I call it a Reset Day, a gentle break from responsibilities, where my only job is to recharge through the calm rhythm of needlework I enjoy (Pearl and Goldwork, Fabric Manipulation, Tufting, Beading, Weaving). I literally retreat into my studio, close the door, and let everything else wait.
On those days, I breathe in the quiet, the colors, the textures of needlework. I let myself think only about threads, designs, and the simple joy of stitching. Sometimes I don’t even stitch right away, I just start by tidying up, going through and organizing the projects, sorting threads. It may seem small, but it instantly helps rewind my mind and unlock creativity.
I've noticed that creating a structure brings a surprising sense of calm to me. By making a simple framework like when, what and where I’ll stitch, or how I’ll track my progress, my brain no longer has to juggle so many decisions. But the most important secret is that I allow myself not even follow the plan I've scheduled.
It’s not about strict schedules to follow, it’s more like giving my brain a break from decision overload. When I have a simple planned routine, I don’t have to constantly figure out what to do next. Things feel calmer, clearer, and way less stressful.
It is the process of planning, scheduling and organizing that quiets mental clutter and opens up space for clarity and peace for me.
Schedule or planning doesn’t mean pressure and obligation to follow it. It’s just a gentle way to support myself and be kind to myself. Even something simple like using a tracker, setting a weekly goal, reflecting on that goal at the end of a week, or having a go-to stitching spot makes a big difference for me. It helps me feel more grounded, and from that calm place, my creativity and productivity have space to grow.
What about you? Do you look at the idea of structure as pressure or freedom?
Little things make big days!
Natalia Frank
1 comment
Dolly Clarizio
Natalia, what an absolutely gorgeous home and workroom you have. I’m sure it is a real pleasure to stitch, create and dream in such a lovely atmosphere.