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Why I'm Steping Away

There’s a strange feeling that comes when you decide to step away from something you love.

Not because you’re done with it....not because you’ve lost passion...but because somewhere along the way, the thing that once filled you up started feeling like something you had to keep feeding.


Artist Denise Cerro in the painting studio

As artists, creators, and honestly just people living in a world that rewards constant output, stepping away can feel irresponsible. We worry we’ll lose momentum...we worry people will forget us...we worry inspiration won’t come back.


I’ve been feeling that tension lately!


So for the first time in a long while, I’m choosing to take a month-long sabbatical from the rhythm of creating, posting, sharing, and keeping all the plates spinning.


Not to disappear...but to listen again. Maybe what I’m hoping isn’t just to come back rested...I’m hoping to come back noticing things I’ve stopped seeing.


photo of spinning plates


When was the last time you stepped away long enough to miss what you love? Are you creating from inspiration or expectation? What would happen if you paused...not to quit, but to return differently? Maybe you've been feeling a few of these signs too...

• realizing you were creating on autopilot

  • feeling pressure to always post the next thing

  • noticing you hadn’t made art just for yourself in a while


What would happen if you paused...not to quit, but to return differently?


artist Denise Cerro

“I'm thinking rest isn’t the opposite of creating....it is part of creating!

Stepping away doesn’t make you less committed. It may remind you why you started.

You don't need to come back with answers...just with fresh eyes!


What we hope to gain from taking a sabbatical...

rest • clarity • fresh ideas • renewed creativity • simply being present


Have you ever needed to step away from something you love?

What would your version of a creative sabbatical look like?

Maybe your break doesn’t need to be a month...maybe it’s just an afternoon.


art work by Denise Cerro

If we intend to do great art,
sometimes we must slow down to regain our vision.



9 Comments


Gail
Jul 05

Good for you! I did something similar recently. I feel so much more relaxed now and excited about exploring art, for me. All the projects I wanted to do but never had time for. It was a process and a challenge to let go of many things- but I couldn't keep all the plates spinning any more- I have no regrets. Sending hugs, enjoy your time away. Be happy.

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Jeanette
Jul 02

You will come back stronger, better and refreshed! This isn't a setback this is a necessary step for a fantastic set up!

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Mile333
Jun 29

So great to recognize when you need time for a break!

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Jennifer
Jun 29

Recharge -Refresh-Renew - it takes inner strength and “ know these self” to step away.

Enjoy this time away from your BUSY schedule ……..rest and let the create juices ferment .

You never know what you may discover and be inspired by along the way❣️

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Ash
Jun 29

We will miss you but it’s important to give yourself some personal time to rejuvenate.


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Denise Cerro Studio

CONTACT

denise@denisecerro.com
760-717-2024 • Encinitas CA

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