Joining with Juliann today to share an update on my word!
Over the years, I have tried a number of different crafts – cross stitch, embroidery, weaving, spinning, sewing, and knitting to name a few. But, in all things focus is important. and this year as I unpack my word and apply it to my life – I have come to the realization that more is not better. All is not needed and I don’t need to worry about FOMO at all. Knitting and sewing are more than enough to keep me occupied and happy. I don’t feel the urge to try every latest thing that comes along.
Yet even knitting and sewing do not mean successful projects if you do not have focus. And, I have come to understand that not having a focus means projects that seem like a great idea at the time, might not be so great in the end result. And so, with my thoughts on focus this year, I have been more mindful of what I am making. I have spent time thinking about my wardrobe and the things that I wear all the time. I have pondered my perceived “holes” in my wardrobe – which has resulted in actual planning in my making. Having a focused plan has shown me areas that I can perhaps try some new things as well as making more of my favorite pieces. Having a focused making process has also had an unexpected effect as well! It has buffered the desire to cast on a new project or rush out to buy some fabric to sew up something that caught my eye!
My in depth look at my wardrobe showed me that a few things would be a nice addition so when I saw Mary’s Screen Door, it was the perfect fit for a “hole” and I cast on, sans guilt!
And, this focused way of thinking has expanded beyond my closet to the lingering, unfinished projects on needles in various places. Are they something I am going to actually need or wear? It is a freeing way to think about things, because I really don’t want my making to be without vision and that has given me a much better focus!
Photo by Wendy van Zyl from Pexels
I am still looking for a pants pattern but not anything too fussy. I actually think I have one in he depths of my fabric closet so maybe decluttering is in order. Happy that your word is serving you well.
Sounds like you chose the perfect word this year Kat. I’ve been enjoying seeing how you move with it (or how it moves you!).
It’s so hard to focus . . . but once you do, it makes such a difference, doesn’t it? You chose a powerful word this year, Kat! 🙂
Focus is indeed important, and it sounds like you’re also finding it freeing in a way. You don’t feel you have to pursue every shiny new sewing or knitting project, but by narrowing your focus you can fill the gaps, still with plenty of creativity. And possibly gain new yarn and lose guilt when you focus on UFOs!
I am so glad to hear that focusing on focus is serving you well. I think that your success is a clear indication that you made a good choice for your word. It’s hard to avoid the “oooh, shiny!” effect in our crafting, but when we can, it’s often to our benefit, as you’ve discovered.
I find I have too many things I want to focus on and when I focus on one then the other gets neglected. For instance when I watercolor, I tend to knit way less. There are so many hours in a day so I try not to be bothered much by it as long as I focus on the bigger goal of creativity and relaxation.
Wishing you success in focusing in on what you hope to accomplish. It can all get so overwhelming sometimes. Especially where there is inspiration all around!