Surprise Wins on a Sick Day
Finding unexpected creative joy with simple collage, magazine pages, and a no-pressure mindset
Behind the Page
I took the morning off (sick day style) and spent it all on the couch feeling so crappy. Luckily, the tide turned around 11am (I’ve been up since before 6) and I had a good time at my Daily Pages live session.
I wasn’t expecting much out of anything I created today, but I’m actually incredibly happy with how today’s page turned out (more notes below). I also finished up this Field Notes book, so I get to start a new book tomorrow.
I’ve been thinking about how I want to share flip-throughs of these journals. I’ll figure out a good way to make that happen one of these days.
Technique of the Day
For today’s page, I flipped through this old issue of New York magazine. The cover is by Pelle Cass (who also did this incredible photo — watch it come together here: NFL Films Presents: Fitting Football into a Photo) and I love keeping around the ‘Reasons to Love New York’ issues.
I got to the back of the magazine and tore out a page about pizza and decided to just go for it. I grabbed a few other things I had lying around my desk, and then got some washi to match, added a journaling sticker and wrote some thoughts about dinner tonight (this is already in the fridge).
How It’s Made
*sick day + tech difficulties means this sped up process video will be up tomorrow. Check back to see this page come together.
Supply List
Magazine — New York Magazine
Cardstock — Concord and 9th
Letters — Everyday Explorers Co
Stickers — Stash
This post may have affiliate links.
Tips & Creative Wisdom
Let Your Mood Guide the Page
On days when you're feeling off, skip the pressure to create something elaborate. Take your time, let it be chill, and lean into how you’re feeling and let the materials guide you. Sometimes a simple collage from a magazine page and a few desk scraps can surprise you with how awesome it turns out.
Pro Tip: Keep a few favorite magazines or papers within reach for days when you want easy, no-stress inspiration.
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