Episode 9: “How to Switch Off When You’re Always 'On': Reset Tips for Creative minds”
In a recent chat with Zoey from A Willow in Bloom, one thing that stood out was her struggle to switch off at the end of the day. Honestly, I could completely relate. And from the feedback I’ve received, it’s clear she and I aren’t alone—many of you are also grappling with this constant “always on” creative brain.
So in today’s episode, I’m diving into a few practical tips—things I’ve tried myself, and some suggestions from others—for managing that buzzing mental chatter that doesn’t seem to have an off-switch.
But before we get into it, I want to say a huge thank you for tuning in and supporting the show. Your messages, feedback, and topic suggestions mean the world to me. If there’s something you'd love to hear more about, or someone you think would be great to interview—whether they’re a florist, grower, wholesaler, or otherwise—please reach out and let me know. I’m currently lining up more guests and always open to ideas!
The Struggle to Switch Off
Zoey’s experience really resonated with me—this idea of a constantly active creative mind that keeps spinning long after the workday ends. And let’s face it, for many of us, that “day” doesn’t have a clear start or finish.
I wish I could offer the magic solution for winding down completely, but like many of you, I’m still figuring it out. That said, I’ve gathered a few tips and strategies that might help. And if you’re one of those unicorns who doesn’t have trouble switching off—please share your secrets with the rest of us!
Let’s Talk About the Phone
We can’t talk about creative burnout without talking about our phones. As business owners, these little devices are our lifelines—emails, calls, messages, social media, calendars, photos, podcasts… you name it, it’s all in there. But they’re also incredibly distracting.
So much of my own mental clutter stems from picking up my phone to do “one little thing” and then finding myself still scrolling 45 minutes later. Sound familiar?
Social media, in particular, plays a big role. We tell ourselves we’re jumping on to relax or find inspiration, but then we get sucked into a rabbit hole of comparing ourselves to others. Suddenly we’re not inspired—we’re overwhelmed, envious, and a little down.
Some Simple Tech Tools That Actually Help
Here are a few things that have really helped me set boundaries:
1. Set App Limits
If you’re an iPhone user (and most of us are), head into your settings and set Daily Limits for the apps that tend to hijack your downtime—Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, whatever your vice is.
Even just a 15- or 30-minute limit can make you more mindful. You can override the limit, but the reminder alone is usually enough to snap you out of the scroll spiral.
2. Use Screen Time Reports
Every week, your phone can send you a screen time report showing how many hours you’ve spent on it—and where exactly that time went. It can be a bit of a wake-up call. Yes, podcasts count in that time (which made me feel a bit better), but if you’re consistently hitting four or five hours a day… it might be time to reassess.
3. Take Social Media Off Your Phone (Seriously!)
If it’s really starting to affect your mental space, just delete the apps—at least for a little while. You’ll be surprised how quickly the habit of checking fades.
Instead, try using the desktop version of Instagram. It’s harder to mindlessly scroll there, which keeps you focused on the actual tasks—like posting or replying to messages—without the endless distractions.
4. Use a Scheduling App
Platforms like Hootsuite, Planoly, or Meta Business Suite can help you plan and post content without needing to open the actual social media app. You can do your job and get off quickly, no doom scrolling required.
Emails—Another Sneaky Culprit
Over the quieter months (from November to April), I removed email completely from my phone. It was life-changing. I still checked my emails at my desk during work hours, but I wasn’t constantly tethered to them when I was supposed to be off.
Yes, I’ve reinstalled them now—it’s wedding season and I need quick access to client info. But as soon as the season slows down again, they’re off my phone once more. Highly recommend giving this a go. If it’s urgent, they’ll call.
So, What Can We Do Instead?
We’ve all heard it before: go for a walk, read a book, meditate, stretch, knit, bake—just do something else. And while it might sound cliché, it works. The key is making sure that activity doesn’t involve your phone.
Whether it's a hobby, a podcast, or just sitting outside with a cuppa—find your version of "unplugged." Give your mind a place to wander that’s not work-related or digital.
Switching off isn’t easy when you’re running a creative business. But with a few boundaries—and the occasional app delete—we can at least create space to breathe, rest, and just be.
Let me know what works for you! Message me on Instagram (before your 15-minute timer kicks in 😉), or send me an email—just maybe not after 5 PM!