Creativity in Quarantine: How Social Media Has Helped Me Rise Above The Virus

As we all know, quarantine has significantly altered our social connections and daily routines. What used to be normal everyday gestures like shaking someone's hand or giving a friend a hug is no longer socially acceptable. This new normal is definitely an adjustment for me, as I am sure it is for you, too.

In my last blog post, I wrote about my move here to San Diego. It's crazy to think that just five months ago, I was in my old home in New Jersey, packing up boxes, and getting ready to live my new life in California. I never anticipated that a global pandemic would arise and dramatically impact my adjustment here - both personally and professionally. Fortunately, I am not alone out here, and fortunately I have made some friends. But without a doubt, as someone starting from scratch, quarantine has made branching out and collaborating 10x harder. It also has made producing relevant content a challenge, too.

I will be honest with you. With the fears of the virus and rise in political movements (which are both legitimate and necessary respectively), I felt I was at a crossroads. I didn't know how to pursue my blog so that it would be true to my brand and relevant, and also considerate of the times. When I came out here I was excited to reinvent myself. But with everything happening it felt like timing was not the best. I was so sure I had to hit pause because it just didn't feel right to go about publishing my "normal" posts when the world is going through so much right now.

But recently, I've been inspired by a number of my influential peers. I thought, if they can roll with the punches - so to speak - and also keep up with their brands and businesses, so can I. Everyone is trying to rise above it, make a living in this new normal while still enjoying the little moments pursuing interests and hobbies. The obstacles that come along don't have to put a stop to or diminish our dreams. The obstacles just have to be tolerated. That was my "ah-hah" moment.

With the help of social media I found a great local photographer who shares my vision and supports my ambitions. Arranging the shoot allowed me to add some "normalcy" into my routine - which was such a breath of fresh air. It was so much fun doing a shoot and getting to tap into my creativity and love for styling again. Most importantly, it felt great to support each others' hobbies. And now I also can say I've met a friend. So, all good things! I definitely feel like it is possible to move forward with optimism and hope, despite these difficult times. To conclude, I'd like to share a quote that is simple in its approach yet hopefully relevant to all of us: "In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity" - Albert Einstein.