Since starting my gap year my mindset and goals have changed several times, which is very normal, but an underlying aspect that always stayed intact was the creative work I encountered. As I started my gap year, I planned to maintain a heavy influence of fashion and merchandising in my day-to-day activities. Marketing within itself is a creative outlet that I have been able to explore thoroughly and even practice while working at a boutique. A small business’s online presence can strongly influence its sales and customer outreach, which is what our boutique’s marketing guru and I have been working on since the fall. We have since created unique photoshoots at various locations, collaborated with local cookie artists, and created a community with our active followers. I am still currently working on this aspect of my gap year, however, since my mindset has changed I have found other creative outlets.
Taking a year off of school for me was exactly what I needed, however like I have talked about before, it’s hard sometimes. I have always found coloring and drawing to be a safe and calming creative outlet for me to relieve stress or just get rid of any boredom I may experience. This year I have been able to spend more time coloring and while doing so, appreciating my quiet time. It sounds very childing but it really has made a difference in my well-being in school and out of school. Another hobby I was able to spend more time on was learning how to play the ukelele. I am nowhere near a professional, but it has been a fun way to dig into my creative side and appreciate some of my favorite songs in a different light.
Each creative aspect of my gap year, big and small has allowed me to become more open-minded and imaginative. Creative, hands-on learning has always been my favorite form of learning and I am very happy that I was able to keep my hands busy throughout my gap year!
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