So… you haven’t written a postcard in months. Your washi tape is collecting dust. You open your journal, stare at the first blank page, and quietly close it again.
First of all, welcome back. You’re not late. You’re not behind. You’re just here. And that’s enough to begin again.
Let’s be honest, even the hobbies we love the most sometimes get pushed aside. I’ve been doing Postcrossing since September 2008, and at this point I could have over 90 postcards traveling at once. But still, there are times when the energy just isn’t there. One thing leads to another, days go by, and suddenly… no postcards are on the way.
Sound familiar? Here’s how I gently ease myself back into the rhythm when I’ve lost touch with a creative habit I love:
1. Drop the guilt
You don’t owe anyone an explanation (not even your past self). Life happens. Hobbies are meant to bring joy, not shame. It’s okay to pick up right where you left off, or even start fresh. No apology notes required.
2. Start smaller than you think you need to
Write one postcard. Stick one sticker. Cut out a photo you like and glue it into your journal, and that’s it. Don’t try to do a whole layout, a full letter, or 10 cards at once. The trick is to move, not to finish.
3. Use what’s easy and fun
Don’t go hunting for the “perfect” supplies or wait until you’re inspired. Use the things that are already on your desk, that make you smile without overthinking. That favorite pen. That sticker sheet you always save “for later.” This is later.
4. Create a ritual, not a routine
You don’t need to do it every day, just choose a cozy time. Saturday morning with tea? 15 minutes before bed? Call it mail moment, journal pause, or whatever makes it feel like a treat, not a chore.
5. Reconnect with why you loved it in the first place
Was it the calm? The slowness? The connection? The creativity? Let that be your compass. You’re not here to impress anyone or meet a productivity goal. You’re here to feel something. That’s more than enough.
I started today with one traveling postcard as you see in the first picture. And step by step ended like that:
Your hobby is still waiting for you, with no judgment, no deadline, and plenty of blank pages to start fresh.
Today is a good day to pick up the pen again. ✨
💬 I’d love to hear from you:
What’s your favorite hobby, and have you ever struggled to get back to it after a break?
What helps you return when the spark fades?
Let’s talk in the comments!
