Between exhaustion and magic – experiencing Christmas as an artist

Christmas. For many, a celebration of joy; for musicians, often a celebration of conflicting emotions.
After a year full of performances, rehearsals, social media, songs, and self-doubt, suddenly there is silence.
Or rather, the loud pressure to be "contemplative" now.

I know this emptiness.
When you're sitting on the couch on December 25, surrounded by family rituals, and you're thinking to yourself:
"I really should be writing booking emails. Or finishing my new concept. Or at least posting a song."

And at the same time: "I can't do anything anymore."

This tension between exhaustion and magic is a reality for many artists. You are not alone. And you don't have to "function" today.

What you can do instead:
Use today to feel yourself, without judgment.
If you are tired, you are tired.
If you feel empty, you are allowed to feel empty.
And if you suddenly feel like recording a melody—then that is your gift to yourself.

Here are a few gentle ways to stay connected with yourself today:

• Write down a sentence: What has this year taught me about myself?

• Listen to a song of yours that you've almost forgotten—without judging it.

• Go for a walk without music and listen to what sounds inside

• Say "thank you" out loud for your voice, your creativity, your perseverance.

You are a musician. An artist. Self-employed.
And you are a person with a heart that needs breaks.

Perhaps today, on Christmas Day, lies your greatest truth:
You don't have to prove anything to anyone. You can just be yourself.

Kind regards