Mark Twain, one of my productivity idols, countered a busy week of writing by taking weekends off to spend with his family, read, and daydream
My summer break in Los Angeles helped me realize the truth in an adage that I have long-loved but only now really understand: “So often what’s needed in a change of self and not a change of scene.” I can, and should, take more breaks and I don’t have to skip town to do it.
I am inspired by this article from the Huffington Post about the un-plugging rituals of some highly productive folks, both past and present. It’s a fun and inspiring read. If these folks can take a break, so can I. And one of the happiest upsides is that it will make my work even more joyful and energizing.
Here’s how I plan to implement my own regular “take a break ritual” when I’m back at home in NYC:
1.) I love to spend my Sunday mornings curled up on my couch with a cup of something warm and tasty, reading the New York Times and watching CBS Sunday Morning. I always learn something new and inspiring. I’ve sacrificed this time too often in the past. No more. On Sundays, I won’t be reachable until noon.
2.) Mornings are a time that I feel reflective and clear. I want to make the most of that time. Of course Phin and I will continue to do our morning gratitude walks (the pup’s gotta get out!). I’m up early by nature so I plan to give them a bit more structure – morning meditation, some gentle yoga, a vegan smoothie, followed by a page of writing (not typing but actual writing) anything that comes into my mind.
I’m excited to see if and how keeping these two rituals change my perspective. Of course, I’ll be sure to report back right here on this blog.
The short of it:
Writer. Health, education, and art advocate. Theater and film producer. Visual artist. Product geek. Proud alumnae of the University of Pennsylvania (BA) and the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia (MBA). Inspired by ancient wisdom & modern tech. Proliferator of goodness. Opener of doors. Friend to animals. Fan of creative work in all its wondrous forms. I use my business skills to create passion projects that build a better world. I’ve been called the happiest New Yorker, and I try hard to live up to that title every day.
The long of it:
My career has stretched across Capitol Hill, Broadway theatre, education, nonprofit fundraising, health and wellness, and Fortune 500 companies in retail, media, entertainment, technology, and financial services. I’ve been a product developer and product manager, theater manager, strategic consultant, marketer, voice over artist, , teacher, and fundraiser. I use my business and storytelling to support and sustain passion projects that build a better world. In every experience, I’ve used my sense of and respect for elegant design to develop meaningful products, services, programs, and events.
While building a business career, I also built a strong portfolio as a journalist, novelist, freelance writer, interviewer, presenter, and public speaker. My writing has appeared in The Washington Post, The Huffington Post, PBS.org, Boston.com, Royal Media Partners publications, and The Motley Fool on a wide range of topics including business, technology, science, health, education, culture, and lifestyle. I have also been an invited speaker at SXSW, Teach for America, Avon headquarters, Games for Change, NYU, Columbia University, Hunter College, and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. The first book in my young adult book series, Emerson Page and Where the Light Enters, was acquired by a publisher and launched in November 2017. I’m currently working on the second book in the series.
A recovering multi-tasker, I’m equally at home in front of my Mac, on my yoga mat, walking my rescue dog, Phineas, traveling with a purpose, or practicing the high-art of people watching. I also cut up small bits of paper and put them back together as a collage artist.
My company:
I’m bringing together all of my business and creative career paths as the Founder of Double or Nothing Media:
• I craft products, programs, and projects that make a difference;
• I build the business plans that make what I craft financially sustainable;
• I tell the stories that matter about the people, places, and products that inspire me.
Follow my adventures on Twitter at https://twitter.com/christanyc and Instagram at https://instagram.com/christarosenyc.
View all posts by Christa Avampato
I'd love to know what you think of this post! Please leave a reply and I'll get back to you in a jiffy! ~ CRA Cancel reply
Christa Avampato 