Aw Cam, I had actually typed my question out in that Q&A space, but deleted it and stopped myself from posting it. I had wanted to ask this: How would one get themselves back to working towards a goal or part of a goal, when the immediate reaction, for whenever it doesn't go as well as they'd anticipate, is to spiral/self-criticize, or be too hard on oneself?
Definitely would love to see an updated video on “The Wall”. It’s a technique I’ve used, but I’m always looking for refinements. Congratulations on the amazing growth! I’ve been following you since pretty early on, through the stumbles and changes, and I’m truly happy for your success. Thanks for all the inspiration, on to 2 mil!
"Nothing changes if nothing changes" is the advice that's hit me the most. It's so easy to get caught up in the late night woes about your feelings of stagnation and inadequacy. This saying really clicked in my brain that the way to change things is to change things. Doesn't need to be big, but making an effort to make something change will snowball from just doing the dishes to complete career/personality changes.
"Any action is better than inaction." Which sort of plays into the fail faster principle. The longer you dwell in indecision or procrastination the longer nothing changes. It's easy to forget you have control over your actions in life although of course some people have less autonomy in their own lives and other major challenges that are incomprehensible to me. But in mine own life, this rings all too true. If you don't take the consistent even small actions to change your situation nothing will change.
Why am I watching? Your perspective is happily communicated, your life experience is relatable, your smile is contagious. I have enjoyed watching you mature and develop as a person. I always feel encouraged after watching one of your chats. This became especially important after I became a widow in 2022. You always have the underlying message of "take a breath, pick yourself up, and get back at it." We all need to hear that from time to time.
If you can't separate different spaces, one of the hacks I've used is a virtual commute. Go out for a walk around the block like you're going to work so you can arrive at work, then once you're done with work, walk around the block in the opposite direction to separate the work portion of your day. Also gives you a moment to think and reflect.
For the office thing, I use one of those smartbulb/lighting things. They are not very expensive but work well in changing the vibe of the room. White light = work, pink or purple light= creative life.
I agree with this point. I do most of my activities in my room, but I use a specific dim light for relaxing or creative time and bright lights for studying, so that rlly helps.
Watched everything you’ve made since 2020. In proper Struthless style, Here’s my top (totally unasked for) reflections of your content! 1. You always made an effort to talk about ability level, making disclaimers for those who maybe don’t have full physical ability. As a disabled person who became disabled after perusing a career in art THANK YOU. The validation is unmatched. The consideration is unreal. I’ve never seen or heard any other creative/creator or anyone else ever do this. It’s the first time I’ve felt “seen”. Like I/we exist too. Amazing. I could, infact am, slightly crying about it 😢 2. That one video where you talk about how turning around the worst thing in your life that ever happened (even if it’s super bad)… was a revelation. It’s started me on a real journey. I now feel like I’ve had a “full” life I wouldn’t swap rather than an atrocious and unfortunate life riddled with nightmares that made me feel trapped and depressed. 3. Your relatability for actually talking about drugs and addictions and death and awful trauma. I don’t even know how to use my words properly enough to convey how effing important this is. And how rare you are for doing it. Again, appreciation doesn’t cut it 4. The pragmatism. You’ve always fascilitated growth by giving tangible ways to achieve it. Stuck? Draw a bin chicken in a different style for a year! Of course! 5. The humility. And authenticity. Again; unreal, unmatched, beyond needed. Please don’t stop. 6. The gate…. Opening?! Is that a thing. The opposite of gatekeeping is what I mean. You make creative careers look possible to people who might otherwise think it’s not. 7. The quality of your creative content; your writing, your illustration, your presenting, your educating, your editing. You are a polymath of creativity and the quality of your output is really magical. Thanks Struthless, Mr Campbell, I really appreciate it a lot 🖤
“If you’re in that position and looking for advice, you’ve already made that decision. You already know you’re gonna change. It’s just, how long are you going to delay telling yourself that you’ve already made the decision.” 👏👏👏
For the addiction question (as someone who dealt with it from a family member, and am now 21 days weed-free) this is what helps me: 1. When I feel a craving, I tell myself, "Okay, well today you WANT to smoke, but how about this, you can smoke tomorrow if you stay sober today" - then when tomorrow rolls around, I repeat the same mantra, and essentially trick myself to never taking that smoke. 2. If the above doesn't work, I reframe my sobriety goal. It's not "I shouldn't smoke" or "I can't smoke" or "I won't smoke today" it's "I am NOT a smoker.", "I am NOT a person who enjoys smoking.", "I don't like to smoke." This reframing allows me to see myself as not the person I want to be, but the person that I am already - a non-smoker. Works for me, might work for you. It's a day-at-a-time thing. You go this.
I smoked weed for 5 years 3 straight (everyday all day) and the one that changed everything for me is practicing saying no. At first I hid all my smoke stuff, threw the weed away. But I couldn’t throw the weed in my head away. So I took it all out and would trigger myself often through out the day just for the opportunity to say no. Now I can’t smoke without a ton of negative feelings coming up, guilt, fear, shame, etc and saying no is second nature.
I heard that you should phrase affirmations positive always (so "not" and "don't" are off the menu, and you try to rephrase) because the brain doesn't process that, and so it makes "I am a smoker" out of it for example. Like when you say "dont go into that puddle" to the kid with the bike and guess what the kid will do.. Because the brain creates like an image or scenario out of it and negatives can't be included.. idk take it or leave it, just wanted to share that bit
What has helped me through addictions is trying to turn it into a positive habit. So every time I got the urge or want to do the thing I was addicted to, I told myself to do 5 pushups instead. If I still had the urge do 5 more, and repeat. Then in my brain it turned quitting a negative habit/addiction into a positive habit. I was addicted to porn, spend 4-5 times a day watching, now I haven't watched for a couple of months and I have started working out continuously. The urge comes up now and then, but I just put some music in my ears and hit the gym instead. I know this might not work for everyone, but for me it just gave me sooo much extra time in a day. Before I did not have enough time to work on my hobbies and side hustles, and now I almost have too much time in my day to day life. I did also do as you and just gaslighted myself into believing that I don't watch that shit and here I am, as a better man with more time to do the things that in the future could help me financially and career wise
19:48 I first started watching your videos when I was looking online for art advice and stayed because of your personality, cheerful demeanor, curiosity and wisdom. I see a lot of myself in you, and your videos always give me a new perspective or something to think about and contemplate. You’re an amazing human Campbell, thanks for sharing what you know and feel with the world🌞
I know nobody gives a shit but I just wanted to say that I was here when you had around 10k subscribers and I'm very happy for you. You've come a long way in a lot of ways and are a great role model. There are a lot of self-help resources out there, but the biggest thing that makes me gravitate to yours is that you keep it real. The genuine oozes out of you. Keep being you, by keeping at improving but being real and self aware. I firmly believe that the first step to improvement is self awareness. A lot of people confuse self-awareness for the voice in our head that is either overly critical or making excuses for ourselves. Being real is always questioning those things and trying to find the middle ground. Thanks, pal. Be well!
You're wrong! We do give a shit, I for one (and I'm obviously not alone) appriciate your comment. When someone (i.e YOU) gives gratitude, we share that gratitude too. So thank you for commenting on this video the way you did. Be Well Brother.
One mental trick I have in my pocket (literally) for making decisions is a coin. If I can't immediately decide what course of action to take between two choices I always flip a coin. If I am disappointment at all about the result I ignore the coin and do that thing. If I feel ambivalent or happy about the coin flip I know It made the right choice. It's a quick mental trick to force the decision.
Piece of advice I love is “if you always do what you’ve always done you’ll always get what you’ve always got”. Congrats on 1 mil! Big love and well deserved
Just 1 day at a time. Took me a year sober to wrap my head around this. Sometimes I repeat to myself 1 hour or even 1 minute at a time if I'm in a real tough spot. Keeps you in the moment instead of the past or future. It's actually quite nice. I made it to 2 years today. These videos are just a great reminder of what I've been working so hard on the past two years. Thanks Struthless
It was so nice to just sit and listen to you casually answering questions in such an interesting way. We definitely want more of those! Also we NEED the full length video about updated WALL system
For me, separating myself from my art came naturally once I started outputting much larger amounts of ideas. I had to create 10, 20, 100 sketches to be critiqued in order to pick the best one to continue with. In this situation it is impossible to get too attached to any one idea, and the critique is a natural part of making that idea the best it can be. Here I also compare myself only with myself, so it becomes less of a “am i good or bad?” and more of a “which version of my work is best?”
11:13 'Home office for part time creators' Lighting can completely change the vibe of a space. Chuck in a smart light and maybe a galaxy projector or whatever floats your boat. Then you can have normal lighting during work hours, but wacky lighting when you want creative mode. It doesn't even need to be wacky, it could just be a warmer white & dimmed a bit, or whatever.
Every time I watch your videos I wonder "why am I listening to this guy?" We have literally nothing in common! But then I give it 10 seconds and you say something so wise and interesting and somehow I get meaning from it. Even a Q&A! Crazy! But what I really wanted to mention, is that I can't get over how much you smile when you mention your daughter! I hope you show her these videos when she's older, like a teenager. Your love for her just comes right through the screen.
Creative/work space dilemma: I find that workspace is headspace, but I also associate my clothing and music with what I’m doing. As a chef, I perform better when I can feel my apron on me and have high-energy music. Maybe it will work for you too? Wear your favorite t-shirt when you’re doing creative activities. Don’t wear casual/comfortable clothes when you’re working in that space.
Your advice on not seeing today and tomorrow as two separate existences when trying to quit today really resonated with me and I think this idea might start following me everywhere I go. Thank you!
The work/creativity struggle when they're both computer-based and you WFH is real. Thoughts: - coloured lighting, incense, etc. for creative time - get a standing desk. a lot of the struggle I feel is just back pain. also can use it to signal energy shifts sometimes (e.g. stand up when I want to be focused) - transition ceremonies - get out of the house and active to finish the work day and put a line under it till tomorrow - invest in hardware. this was my approach, I didn't even try learning music production on a computer, I knew it would drive me crazy after working on them all day
I love the freedom that "no right choice" gives. Sometimes I choose things just for the joy of doing something completely bonkers. It's a hugely privileged stance and I recognise that, but also I am a disabled person and when everything is pain, then why not?
For doing creative and boring stuff in the same space, rituals can help. Don't ever stop doing one and start doing the other. Always perform a routine before each. Have a boring work routine and a creative work routine. This can be changing clothes, walking for a couple minutes, listening to a song, changing something in your environment, etc. Small changes in your environment are important. Change something in your workspace. You brain will realize that when you see object 1 on your desk, you are in boring work mode. When you see object 2, you are in creative work mode. Also, @struthless is spot on with your computer profile. Log out of boring work account and log into creative work account. Make sure the background/wallpaper is different. Even change your color theme. It doesn't need to be a major difference. Even a subtle difference will make a difference to your subconscious!
Over a year ago I saw your video "32 ways to be better at life" and wrote a similar list for my birthday. Today I turned 24 and did the same thing - and put TH-cam on and saw this video. Isn't that nice? Well deserved subscribers, thanks so much for what you do, your book is a gem in my library. I recommend it where I can.
For some reason the bit about addiction made me think about flipping that around and applying it to procrastination or depression keeping you stuck. Instead of “I will not drink with you today,” it could be “I will do this thing today” because it’s so easy to just tell yourself you’ll feel better tomorrow, I’ll do the thing tomorrow. Etc.
I really enjoy how open you are, you have quickly become a male role model for me and a man that I respect. Your love for your wife and daughter is very touching and I hope to be a good husband and father in the future just like yourself. Your answer to the "how are you?" is very real. I like that you didn't brush it off with an "I'm fine" and were actually able to be open (especially with strangers online). Thank you for being you and for being an inspiration!
For changing head space, Work to Creativity, I like changing clothes. I have my work clothes, then when I am done working, I change, and now ready for the next thing.
Honestly i appreciate all your videos - i feel alarmed by how fast my twenties are going - you always manage to help ease my mind but remind myself to strive for what i want :)
If you think your 20s go by quickly... wait until you get into your 40s. I'm 45 and still feel like I should be around 27 or so... not sure where those 18 years went.
19:27 My deepest gratitude to you for taking the time to answer my question, Cam. As always, I really appreciate your input on not only this, but everything you’ve shared. You’ve given me much to think about. Cheers. 🤘
I am in a not-too-large college apartment, so I resonate with the lack of space and separation between work, passion projects, and leisure. A few things I do to separate the spaces (while remaining at the same desk the entire time) are: Change the lighting (I have phone controlled LED bulbs and i have specific lighting for work ), and smells (I light certain candles when Im taking time to relax.
11:48 Yes, if you're stuck in the same physical location, find ways to change the environment in that location to shift your mental space. Different logins, different backgrounds, different desk (if possible), different music, having a little mantra to say as you shift gears can help too: "Work shut down, artist engage", and pairing that with some kind of physical movement has also been said to help.
For doing 2 different things in the same space and cutting association between the 2, color changing lights, Move one accent or decorative item from one side of your desk to the other, changing your profile like he said is also awesome, if you use any sort of utensil like a pencil or pen change them out, Whenever I'm at work, I wear this headband, and now, every time I need motivation, I wear the headband that makes me go go go. I highly suggest wearing an item that feels different from other items that you can wear when you're doing a specific task and it clicks your brain into doing it
Re: the same space for work and creativity - I also work in tech, and create on the side. What’s helped a ton is lighting. I have Phillips Hue bulbs but there are a lot of others out there now way less expensive. I set up light themes for different times of the day. 8:45 - 5pm, the lights auto-change to a bright cool light. 5pm, the whole house goes dark, and that’s my indicator to shut work down, log out of the work account, and sit still, taking a few deep breaths until 5:01pm when the lights come on again in an amber tone. The visual cues have helped me separate work from play, kind of trick the brain into a different state. Changing clothes can help too. I used to use alarms but I found I got really good at just turning them off. I have a work logon, and a play one. Totally different themes on the computer, color profiles, programs pinned. Hm. I do have a separate mouse and keyboard I use for play, that helps too when I have to switch how I’m typing and reposition my hand on the mouse. I hope these help someone out there. For reference, I work from home and have one desk as a workspace for both.
I dug it! Your life experience is SO different from mine, you have so much to describe that I'll just never have the opportunity to experience for myself. With our powers combined, we can benefit from MULTIPLE lifetimes of experience! Thanks for sharing what you have with the world.
I worked in apparel design for 10 years and I can definitely say that kind of design also helps you separate emotiinally from my creative work for the same reason
Why am I watching? Because you're relatable. And as an aussie it's somewhat rare to find someone on youtube who talks about the stuff you do in a way that gets the culture and way we think about things.
I’d definitely to be happy to see some more of these casual style videos from you this year! I always appreciate hearing your perspective on things because as you say, no life is completely the same, and learning from other people fascinates me
Why watching this? Seriously? This is imho one of the most underrated and undervalued channels on YT. There is so much gold here in terms of wisdom. Right now I am sitting outside in my Helinox chair on a snowy hill in the forest, just finished eating my lunchdinner. It's 1meter of snow all over, sun, +2°C and fresh air in the forest. Just enjoying life and watching your videos, thats why, to enjoy life and learn. Keep up the good work
I love your advice and how honest you are. I just made a really big, difficult decision and it was like you said, no decision is perfect and I know that well. I think it’s so helpful to know that nothing is ever perfect but that most often, change is good. Mine was a should I stay or go decision and I went with go. It was just last night and I had made the decision which involved selling a house and accepting an offer. And I accepted it and barely slept from anxiety. But tonight I feel better and you helped me with that. I’m 53 so I’m way closer to the end of life span than you are and so the stakes are higher, time is ticking. So this is a big thank you to you.
For the question about trying to create different spaces in the same space: use lighting effects and change out the chair you sit in. Really anything sensory that can change will make the room feel different and cue your brain into thinking differently.
I don't have an addiction to hard drugs, but I do struggle with being addicted to not doing anything and procrastinating. I know it's just years of training and learned helplessness, but I do think that the addiction suggestions applies to this sort of stuff too!
I am a visual artist and writer by night and work for the government by day. My WFH space is my studio. I do a physical set up and pack down twice a day or more: laptop, monitor, keyboard and mouse come out and I’m a government worker. Pack it all away and get out a table easel, paints, brushes and I am the real me. The changing over completely from one set up to the other is by necessity but I think it helps me adjust.
as a kiwi I sincerely thought you were Australian, I am so sorry! New subscriber though and you've quickly become one of my favourite content creators. Thanks for all the ideas! I started this year with four new journals thanks to you. One is for gratitude thoughts towards my partner, one is for general gratitude towards life, one is for being kind to myself and reframing things to be more empathetic. The fourth one is just there for the possibilities!
I’ve been in a rough place lately - creatively, emotionally, financially, etc. Was doomscrolling and then I remembered this channel exists and came back here for some advice and action steps. Thank you for being realistic about growth and open about your past struggles. Makes me feel like maybe I can get through it too. Your art and life is such a gift.
I live in a very small space, and have it set up to appeal to my own sensibilities. I had to bring some very bulky sewing-work home and needed to work on it without feeling like my home had been completely taken hostage by it. I took a fitted sheet and put it over the circular rug that feels like “home” to me, and then I put the work project on top of it. When I was done with the work for the evening, I wrapped it in the sheet. It was still very obviously there, but at least it felt “contained” when I wasn’t actively working on it. I did this so that I wouldn’t feel like I had given my whole home over to the project, and so I could create a “barrier” between my home and the work I had brought into it. It wasn’t perfect (mostly just a psychological sleight-of-hand), but it did feel like an important declaration of my home’s independence from my work. I like what Cam said about maybe having a different login for the computer to differentiate the different uses of it, too, as well as dressing differently so that one’s “work persona” is different from one’s sense of who they are outside of the context of work.
I want to comment about changing your environment for different types of work at home. When I switch (switched past tense because I’m retired now) from client work to personal work, I change what I’m listening to, I wear different clothing, everything you suggested. But one thing that WFH people don’t have is a *commute,* the transition that happens in your mind as you travel from your home to your work place. If you can ritualize the commute, a symbolic transition from one type of work to another, then by the time you sit down to do the work, you’ve shifted your headspace as well. Example, I used to take my cup of coffee and walk out the front door, wander the garden for a few minutes, then walk back in as a worker. Sounds silly, but in just a few minutes I was able to “commute” to work.
12:20 Something that's working for me is using candles. My gf give me some for Christmas and I don't really have a good sense of smell (It's not because of the pandemic, I was born like this), I have no idea what they smell like, I know they're white and according to her the candles smell like vanilla. What I do is that when I have to work I light one up and have it on the side, the little flame works like a separation for me, when I work on personal projects I work without candle. In my specific case (No sense of smell) I think is more the fact that I have it in a specific spot that doesn't interrupt my work but that I can perceive the fire flickering on my periferal vision that helps me get in the mood of "I'm working", but if your nose works better than mine probably the specific smell of the candle could also help.
Great video! Great answers. :) I have an answer to the question of 'which thing do I pick to do?' Like you said, pick the one you think is the 'best' option, then flip a coin. Heads is 'go ahead with that thing'. Tails is 'choose something else'. Flip the coin, see where it lands *and pay very close attention to how you feel about the result*. That will tell you whether it's truly the right thing or not.
I really love spontaneous stuff. Went through the city yesterday evening to cut up some big christmas trees. Now I have 10 rustic hangers. Well after I remove the rest of the twigs. And I was physically active for over an hour doing that. Win-win
Showing on real time that you can access information you're struggling to remember or pronounce is great. I wish I could see your daughter on her second birthday.
For the WFH thing and a creative spot, have things that are visible in the different modes. Different lighting works for me, as well as only wearing my headphones when I'm working.
Another great video! My eldest daughter just had her first child, so I'm not only still experiencing the wonder of seeing her grow and flourish (the wonder never stops), but I also get to share with her the joy of watching her child grow. Kids are the best.
Just to say, thank you. I feel like even when I don't take action... your words are percolating through my mind and building me up for future changes and adjustments and understandings.
For the work/non-work stuff, go for a walk if you can. Working from home is hard. Taking some time to say 'work is done' and doing a mini commute, even if it's just around the block. Then you get back and you're no longer at work, you're home and doing the fun stuff.
22:24 funny enough, I flip a coin but tell myself "if my immediate reaction to the result is happiness or relief, stick to it. If the immediate reaction is remorse, simply pick the other one" and it helps me see how I really feel about my options.
19:22 I'm watching because you're great at communicating and you are just so real and transparent with your content. You talk about topics that impact in so many people's lives. Also I mostly struggle with aussie accent and you make me LISTEN which is great, I love listening to other accents even if it hurts my brain for a little while (I'm not a native speaker so that can feel hard at times). Hugs from Argentina man!
Advice for differentiating creative space from work/other shared space: #1 change smells, using things like candles, food, etc; physically cover items or parts of the room, not just those related to other tasks, but anything to just change the space; change lighting; change sounds. It can help to choose a setup with some symbolic or practical relationship to the activity, but the specifics don't actually matter much. The most important thing is you have to do these things Every Time. Your brain has to learn the association and you have to stick to those cues or it will fade.
As someone whose work space and creative space are also the same, something that works really well for me is lighting! Set up some smart lights so that it’s noticeable throughout your room, make a colourful setting that suits your creative vibe, and set an automatic timer for whenever you’re finished work. By using that visual cue as the first step, I find it’s easier to switch computers and just get started. Appreciate the video and congrats on 1 million subscribers! 🎉
CONGRATS ON 1 MIL! 🎉❤ The advice about quitting addictions "considering tonight and tomorrow as seperate realities, there is only today and right now" - I love as one of the most. I'm currently using to get back into running. I love once I'm doing it, it's great for my mental health and i used to do it a lot instinctively when i was younger, i would just go on a run when feeling overwhelmed, not trained or whatever. After having had a knee injury for some time, a weird knot in my calve muscle and my lower back bruised, i can finally say I'm physically healthy enough to pick it up for the long term. However: I draaaag going on a run. So i mentally prepare myself the night before and then when i wake up it has to be the first thing i have to do: drink some water, dress up, and go. I start to talk myself out of it, and then i tell myself: no, you made this promise last night, and right now is all that you've got. If you don't do i now, you'll probably don't do it next week, cause it is one reality. And then i decide i want more for future me (one of my recent lifegoals has become to get old fit and flexible, seeing so many older physically stuck/ill people around me) and then i go. After 1k, i start to love it. By the end of the year i wanna run 10k do-able. Meaning in june i have to hit 5-7k. I just finished my first 4.22k since years. :) This "seperate reality" theory is super interesting. Hope one day you do a full vid about it!
Thank you bro!! I loved the reminder on the simple quote about a calm sea doesn’t make a skilled sailor but pretty sure that what the other video you make I saw but still
I’m sorry for your friend loss. I had a friend loss this year too and it destroyed (and still is destroying) me. I’m so glad you at least still have the tattoo to remind you of him, how wonderful it is to have a tattoo that you hated turn into a tattoo that you will cherish forever ❤️
Bro 1 MILL !!! I've been here sub 100k. I'm so proud of you man. Now to make you proud of me. So glad to have you in my life. I've been using your journaling techniques for 2 years now and they really made a huge difference in my life.
That bit about you have regrets no matter what you choose released me from guilt quite a bit. I occasionally regret choices that have quite wonderful outcomes then feel guilt for that emotion even if its fleeting and now i realise i would feel that no matter what choice i made.
i don’t normally comment on youtube videos BUT i really really do wanna see an updated video on the wall, you touched on it briefly in a recent video & i was SO intrigued!!! ps. i think you’re so wonderful, keep going bruv!! much love
We're craving for more videos! Every time I see you I am seeing a guide, a friend who has got something from life to share with me and who has found some sort of equilibrium within himself, which few people have, and fewer share. I also love your attitude upon good and bad things and life in general idk man you help me. Also love the editing! You're inspiring!
on separating day job and personal creative workspaces: I have a room large enough to have two desks in it; one is the day job desk, the other is the creative desk. But if I didn't have that much space, I would sit at a different angle for each head space - use different ends of the desk for each. The main goal is to get the day job stuff out of my eyeline while trying to get into personal flow.
Love your enthusiasm, randomness and casual approach to life. I’m sure it has taken time to reach the point of not caring about shit you can’t control. It doesn’t matter where you live in the world, if you can still do your craft, be a great dad, swim, run, be merry with family thats all that really matters. Keep up the good work.
Voting for the wall! I'd love to see a video about that. I've been using it for 2 years (in my journal for privacy) and it's helped me accomplish so much!
please do an updated wall video!!!!! im moving into my basement and this is something i definitely need my own version of. itd be SO unbelievably helpful to see how your process has adapted
As for the indecision question: I would write down all options on separate pieces of paper. And then just draw one of them... If you feel good with that option you drew, that is what to do next. If not or if you feel bummed because it should have been another option, then the latter should be your focus.
I really related to the question about picking a career in a changing world. I spent so much time changing my mind, being very uncertain, and being unwilling to make any decisions at all. To be fair, I was also dealing with A LOT of mental health problems, so that didn't help. I'm still uncertain, but now I've been able to actually think it over enough to be able to rationally say "Hey, I learned from past jobs that I don't like to be bored, sitting at a computer all day, not have any structure to my days, or uncertainty as to what I'm supposed to be doing at work. But I DO like being physically active at work, Visible and clear markers of progress (like being able to see the progress I've made and then knowing whether I'm behind or not), working with other people, doing something that helps others even in small ways, and having a more flexible schedule than a strict 9-5." And then being able accept that that's where I'm at at this point (I come from a family that's very white-collar, college degree/9-5 centered and it's been hard to accept that I'm not that) and also recognize that I won't be stuck in one path forever - but I do have to do something. Right now I'm working as a job coach and looking to go to train as an ER Tech. Loose long term plan is to build on top of the er tech stuff and get further education in the medical field.
I would love an Updated Video on THE WALL please. In your last video when you talked about Inertia you mentioned it, and I'm working on a book, a channel, and my health (and a 9-5).. it's a lot and I feel an updated Wall would help me (especially with AI around now) to visually organize better. Congrats on the 1M!!!!
Congrats on the 1M!! 🙂 I always appreciate your honesty and insights. My son was due in May 2 years ago as well, but he arrived 7 weeks early so we're just about to celebrate his second birthday very soon. Looking forward to seeing more of your journey. Cheers!
I love these kinds of videos for when I'm like folding my laundry so I can have something on that improves my life and gives me some juicy nuggets of insight to chew on but that that I don't have to stop everything and focus intently on it.
I LOVE YOUR BOOK!! I found you when a video about resetting your life mid-year showed up in my feed, and I have been happily traipsing through your content since. :)
You always take my mind down paths I recognize; I’ve been on them before-but just like walking that same path with someone for whom the path is new-I realize I’m seeing everything differently by the end. Thank you for the new neural pathways. My brain and my future appreciates it!
I've thankfully never been addicted to substances but I was grocery shopping an hour ago and I was considering going for that Snickers bar at the counter and used that "not today" mantra instead. Now I'm stood here, snickerless but slightly proud.
i used to go swimming with my dad every sunday!! it's kind of random but i just loved hearing you say that you love swimming with your daughter, it made me remember how much i cherish those memories, as i bet she will too!! (and i am also a may baby heehee) also i love your videos because you bring everything as a friend, and you always acknowledge how things can be really hard. makes one at least want to give it a try instead of thinking "i can't do that" anyway congrats on 1M!! i'm one of many who came from the typeface video :p
Would love to see an updated video about the Wall! And I'm not using the word love randomly, I want to love myself, the stuff I do and my life more, and this seems like it could be a cool part of it
I struggle with the work/creative/fun in same space thing too (and doesn't help that I have a creative job as well!) Here are some things that I find help a bit: Doing a bit of a hard-reset (leaving the space, doing something else, then coming back to use it for a different purpose) can help. I have done different computer profiles in the past, but I have found that it doesn't make a huge difference to me personally. Having some dedicated fun things that take place in the same space, so that I don't always associate it with work (eg, I use my same computer for work as I do for playing DnD and other TTRPGs with friends online). Resetting the space between the different use cases, so that I'm not surrounded by work reminders when I'm doing the fun thing... that one is, uh, easier said than done sometimes though. I also have a 'wall of obsession' behind my desk that I look at every time I need that little mental pick-me-up or happiness-boost. It's covered with things that give me inspiration, remind me why life is awesome, and why I work: to make the world a mildly better place for my having been here AND to enable me to live outside of work. So there's stuff like... cool wallpaper swatches, postcards from past trips, ticket stubs, and other physical objects that remind me of awesome memories and/or achievements that say 'hey, it's not all about work, even if I'm in a space where that's what I do sometimes'. It literally gives me a mood boost every time I enter the room, whether I'm there for work or something else. Not sure if that helps, but there are a few things! 😀
Watching you talk makes me happy, man! Makes me feel human, makes me see what a real human being sounds like. It’s kinda rare these days. Someone who’s not trying to be or get anything, just being. You inspire me to be simpler, happier, wiser. Calmer and paying more attention to the world. You’re a beautiful soul and that’s just visible! It’s undeniable. And what makes this true is that you’re not afraid to show that you’re imperfect. I wish your family all the happiness in the world, and all the peace in your heart ❤
Cam, i feel so much love for you as a human being that i will almost certainly never meet in person. You are a wonderfully open, thoughtful and fascinating person, with so much to share with the world. I truly appreciate every video you upload. If you ever wonder why people are watching your videos, it's because it's you Cam.
I always enjoy your content; well researched, quirky and always candidly honest. I’d be interested in a video about how you quit or limited your social media consumption. I’m 60 years old so did not grow up with smart phones and the internet and even so, I’m addicted to it. I find myself mindlessly looking at random whatever, even circling back to the same platforms over and over, expecting something new. It leaves me feeling jittery and empty. Anyway, with your curiosity research skills and ability to tell a great story, I’d be curious to hear more about your take on this. Like how can crap like celebrity news, or people doing goofy, creative or cute stuff have such a hold on me? Oh, and congrats on your 1M subscribers. I hope you are carving our the balance you need.
Thanks for watching and THANKS FOR 1 MILLION!!!
P.s. Lmk if you want me to expand on any of the questions and turn them into a full vid :)
Aw Cam, I had actually typed my question out in that Q&A space, but deleted it and stopped myself from posting it. I had wanted to ask this:
How would one get themselves back to working towards a goal or part of a goal, when the immediate reaction, for whenever it doesn't go as well as they'd anticipate, is to spiral/self-criticize, or be too hard on oneself?
Definitely would love to see an updated video on “The Wall”. It’s a technique I’ve used, but I’m always looking for refinements.
Congratulations on the amazing growth! I’ve been following you since pretty early on, through the stumbles and changes, and I’m truly happy for your success. Thanks for all the inspiration, on to 2 mil!
how do you quit social media while also relying on it as a platform for one's art? thank you for this video!
the wall, the wall, the wall!!! ^^
thank you so much for answering my question. the first thing that popped into my mind was TH-cam - I`m screwed! 🤣
"You can do anything, but you can't do EVERYthing"
Reflecting on that simple sentence has helped me get over indecision so many times in life!
Damn yes
Ahhh. I needed to hear this
"Nothing changes if nothing changes" is the advice that's hit me the most. It's so easy to get caught up in the late night woes about your feelings of stagnation and inadequacy. This saying really clicked in my brain that the way to change things is to change things. Doesn't need to be big, but making an effort to make something change will snowball from just doing the dishes to complete career/personality changes.
“Old keys don’t unlock new doors” got me
"Any action is better than inaction." Which sort of plays into the fail faster principle. The longer you dwell in indecision or procrastination the longer nothing changes. It's easy to forget you have control over your actions in life although of course some people have less autonomy in their own lives and other major challenges that are incomprehensible to me. But in mine own life, this rings all too true. If you don't take the consistent even small actions to change your situation nothing will change.
❤ Lord help us all
“nothing changes nothing” from all them witches
Why am I watching? Your perspective is happily communicated, your life experience is relatable, your smile is contagious. I have enjoyed watching you mature and develop as a person. I always feel encouraged after watching one of your chats. This became especially important after I became a widow in 2022. You always have the underlying message of "take a breath, pick yourself up, and get back at it." We all need to hear that from time to time.
If you can't separate different spaces, one of the hacks I've used is a virtual commute. Go out for a walk around the block like you're going to work so you can arrive at work, then once you're done with work, walk around the block in the opposite direction to separate the work portion of your day. Also gives you a moment to think and reflect.
Omg i just posted the same thing ❤
I love that. The first thing I thought of was changing clothes though.
This is advice I needed thank you!
For the office thing, I use one of those smartbulb/lighting things. They are not very expensive but work well in changing the vibe of the room. White light = work, pink or purple light= creative life.
I agree with this point. I do most of my activities in my room, but I use a specific dim light for relaxing or creative time and bright lights for studying, so that rlly helps.
LET HIM COOK!!!!!!
Watched everything you’ve made since 2020. In proper Struthless style, Here’s my top (totally unasked for) reflections of your content!
1. You always made an effort to talk about ability level, making disclaimers for those who maybe don’t have full physical ability. As a disabled person who became disabled after perusing a career in art THANK YOU. The validation is unmatched. The consideration is unreal. I’ve never seen or heard any other creative/creator or anyone else ever do this. It’s the first time I’ve felt “seen”. Like I/we exist too. Amazing. I could, infact am, slightly crying about it 😢
2. That one video where you talk about how turning around the worst thing in your life that ever happened (even if it’s super bad)… was a revelation. It’s started me on a real journey. I now feel like I’ve had a “full” life I wouldn’t swap rather than an atrocious and unfortunate life riddled with nightmares that made me feel trapped and depressed.
3. Your relatability for actually talking about drugs and addictions and death and awful trauma. I don’t even know how to use my words properly enough to convey how effing important this is. And how rare you are for doing it. Again, appreciation doesn’t cut it
4. The pragmatism. You’ve always fascilitated growth by giving tangible ways to achieve it. Stuck? Draw a bin chicken in a different style for a year! Of course!
5. The humility. And authenticity. Again; unreal, unmatched, beyond needed. Please don’t stop.
6. The gate…. Opening?! Is that a thing. The opposite of gatekeeping is what I mean. You make creative careers look possible to people who might otherwise think it’s not.
7. The quality of your creative content; your writing, your illustration, your presenting, your educating, your editing. You are a polymath of creativity and the quality of your output is really magical.
Thanks Struthless, Mr Campbell, I really appreciate it a lot 🖤
I love the concept of gate opening ❤
YES Please The Wall Part 2!
“If you’re in that position and looking for advice, you’ve already made that decision. You already know you’re gonna change. It’s just, how long are you going to delay telling yourself that you’ve already made the decision.” 👏👏👏
For the addiction question (as someone who dealt with it from a family member, and am now 21 days weed-free) this is what helps me:
1. When I feel a craving, I tell myself, "Okay, well today you WANT to smoke, but how about this, you can smoke tomorrow if you stay sober today" - then when tomorrow rolls around, I repeat the same mantra, and essentially trick myself to never taking that smoke.
2. If the above doesn't work, I reframe my sobriety goal. It's not "I shouldn't smoke" or "I can't smoke" or "I won't smoke today" it's "I am NOT a smoker.", "I am NOT a person who enjoys smoking.", "I don't like to smoke." This reframing allows me to see myself as not the person I want to be, but the person that I am already - a non-smoker.
Works for me, might work for you. It's a day-at-a-time thing. You go this.
I smoked weed for 5 years 3 straight (everyday all day) and the one that changed everything for me is practicing saying no.
At first I hid all my smoke stuff, threw the weed away. But I couldn’t throw the weed in my head away.
So I took it all out and would trigger myself often through out the day just for the opportunity to say no.
Now I can’t smoke without a ton of negative feelings coming up, guilt, fear, shame, etc and saying no is second nature.
🙏 thanks
I heard that you should phrase affirmations positive always (so "not" and "don't" are off the menu, and you try to rephrase) because the brain doesn't process that, and so it makes "I am a smoker" out of it for example. Like when you say "dont go into that puddle" to the kid with the bike and guess what the kid will do.. Because the brain creates like an image or scenario out of it and negatives can't be included.. idk take it or leave it, just wanted to share that bit
What has helped me through addictions is trying to turn it into a positive habit. So every time I got the urge or want to do the thing I was addicted to, I told myself to do 5 pushups instead. If I still had the urge do 5 more, and repeat. Then in my brain it turned quitting a negative habit/addiction into a positive habit. I was addicted to porn, spend 4-5 times a day watching, now I haven't watched for a couple of months and I have started working out continuously. The urge comes up now and then, but I just put some music in my ears and hit the gym instead.
I know this might not work for everyone, but for me it just gave me sooo much extra time in a day. Before I did not have enough time to work on my hobbies and side hustles, and now I almost have too much time in my day to day life. I did also do as you and just gaslighted myself into believing that I don't watch that shit and here I am, as a better man with more time to do the things that in the future could help me financially and career wise
19:48 I first started watching your videos when I was looking online for art advice and stayed because of your personality, cheerful demeanor, curiosity and wisdom. I see a lot of myself in you, and your videos always give me a new perspective or something to think about and contemplate. You’re an amazing human Campbell, thanks for sharing what you know and feel with the world🌞
Yes to everything
I know nobody gives a shit but I just wanted to say that I was here when you had around 10k subscribers and I'm very happy for you. You've come a long way in a lot of ways and are a great role model. There are a lot of self-help resources out there, but the biggest thing that makes me gravitate to yours is that you keep it real. The genuine oozes out of you. Keep being you, by keeping at improving but being real and self aware. I firmly believe that the first step to improvement is self awareness. A lot of people confuse self-awareness for the voice in our head that is either overly critical or making excuses for ourselves. Being real is always questioning those things and trying to find the middle ground.
Thanks, pal. Be well!
You're wrong! We do give a shit, I for one (and I'm obviously not alone) appriciate your comment. When someone (i.e YOU) gives gratitude, we share that gratitude too. So thank you for commenting on this video the way you did.
Be Well Brother.
One mental trick I have in my pocket (literally) for making decisions is a coin. If I can't immediately decide what course of action to take between two choices I always flip a coin. If I am disappointment at all about the result I ignore the coin and do that thing. If I feel ambivalent or happy about the coin flip I know It made the right choice. It's a quick mental trick to force the decision.
Piece of advice I love is “if you always do what you’ve always done you’ll always get what you’ve always got”. Congrats on 1 mil! Big love and well deserved
Just 1 day at a time. Took me a year sober to wrap my head around this. Sometimes I repeat to myself 1 hour or even 1 minute at a time if I'm in a real tough spot. Keeps you in the moment instead of the past or future. It's actually quite nice. I made it to 2 years today. These videos are just a great reminder of what I've been working so hard on the past two years. Thanks Struthless
"Every single choice will lead to regret, but the most regret is to stay in indecision mode." That is so good
When motivation is low you have two options:
Get it done or regret it later.
This has helped me a lot!
It was so nice to just sit and listen to you casually answering questions in such an interesting way. We definitely want more of those! Also we NEED the full length video about updated WALL system
For me, separating myself from my art came naturally once I started outputting much larger amounts of ideas. I had to create 10, 20, 100 sketches to be critiqued in order to pick the best one to continue with. In this situation it is impossible to get too attached to any one idea, and the critique is a natural part of making that idea the best it can be.
Here I also compare myself only with myself, so it becomes less of a “am i good or bad?” and more of a “which version of my work is best?”
I feel like you really nailed it. I REALLY hope the person who asked that question sees this!
I love this! I'm the one who asked :) My work is more technical and less artistic, but I like how this still applies for creative output in many forms
11:13 'Home office for part time creators'
Lighting can completely change the vibe of a space.
Chuck in a smart light and maybe a galaxy projector or whatever floats your boat. Then you can have normal lighting during work hours, but wacky lighting when you want creative mode. It doesn't even need to be wacky, it could just be a warmer white & dimmed a bit, or whatever.
8:25 I’m OBSESSED with Cam dropping his TH-cam voice when he talks about his wife. He gets so calm!
Every time I watch your videos I wonder "why am I listening to this guy?" We have literally nothing in common! But then I give it 10 seconds and you say something so wise and interesting and somehow I get meaning from it. Even a Q&A! Crazy!
But what I really wanted to mention, is that I can't get over how much you smile when you mention your daughter! I hope you show her these videos when she's older, like a teenager. Your love for her just comes right through the screen.
Creative/work space dilemma:
I find that workspace is headspace, but I also associate my clothing and music with what I’m doing. As a chef, I perform better when I can feel my apron on me and have high-energy music. Maybe it will work for you too? Wear your favorite t-shirt when you’re doing creative activities. Don’t wear casual/comfortable clothes when you’re working in that space.
Your advice on not seeing today and tomorrow as two separate existences when trying to quit today really resonated with me and I think this idea might start following me everywhere I go. Thank you!
The work/creativity struggle when they're both computer-based and you WFH is real. Thoughts:
- coloured lighting, incense, etc. for creative time
- get a standing desk. a lot of the struggle I feel is just back pain. also can use it to signal energy shifts sometimes (e.g. stand up when I want to be focused)
- transition ceremonies - get out of the house and active to finish the work day and put a line under it till tomorrow
- invest in hardware. this was my approach, I didn't even try learning music production on a computer, I knew it would drive me crazy after working on them all day
I love the freedom that "no right choice" gives. Sometimes I choose things just for the joy of doing something completely bonkers. It's a hugely privileged stance and I recognise that, but also I am a disabled person and when everything is pain, then why not?
For doing creative and boring stuff in the same space, rituals can help. Don't ever stop doing one and start doing the other. Always perform a routine before each. Have a boring work routine and a creative work routine. This can be changing clothes, walking for a couple minutes, listening to a song, changing something in your environment, etc. Small changes in your environment are important. Change something in your workspace. You brain will realize that when you see object 1 on your desk, you are in boring work mode. When you see object 2, you are in creative work mode. Also, @struthless is spot on with your computer profile. Log out of boring work account and log into creative work account. Make sure the background/wallpaper is different. Even change your color theme. It doesn't need to be a major difference. Even a subtle difference will make a difference to your subconscious!
Over a year ago I saw your video "32 ways to be better at life" and wrote a similar list for my birthday. Today I turned 24 and did the same thing - and put TH-cam on and saw this video. Isn't that nice? Well deserved subscribers, thanks so much for what you do, your book is a gem in my library. I recommend it where I can.
How lovely 🥰 please share your list if you're down 🫶🏼
1:25 i do wiki speed runs for a bit if i want stimulatio. Also really like setting up board games for myself to play during pomodoro work breaks
For some reason the bit about addiction made me think about flipping that around and applying it to procrastination or depression keeping you stuck. Instead of “I will not drink with you today,” it could be “I will do this thing today” because it’s so easy to just tell yourself you’ll feel better tomorrow, I’ll do the thing tomorrow. Etc.
I really enjoy how open you are, you have quickly become a male role model for me and a man that I respect. Your love for your wife and daughter is very touching and I hope to be a good husband and father in the future just like yourself. Your answer to the "how are you?" is very real. I like that you didn't brush it off with an "I'm fine" and were actually able to be open (especially with strangers online). Thank you for being you and for being an inspiration!
For changing head space, Work to Creativity, I like changing clothes. I have my work clothes, then when I am done working, I change, and now ready for the next thing.
Honestly i appreciate all your videos - i feel alarmed by how fast my twenties are going - you always manage to help ease my mind but remind myself to strive for what i want :)
If you think your 20s go by quickly... wait until you get into your 40s. I'm 45 and still feel like I should be around 27 or so... not sure where those 18 years went.
@@JaRyCu trust me I am paralysingly aware how quick this will all go - what I meant is he puts my mind at ease about wasting my youth
19:27 My deepest gratitude to you for taking the time to answer my question, Cam. As always, I really appreciate your input on not only this, but everything you’ve shared. You’ve given me much to think about. Cheers. 🤘
I am in a not-too-large college apartment, so I resonate with the lack of space and separation between work, passion projects, and leisure. A few things I do to separate the spaces (while remaining at the same desk the entire time) are: Change the lighting (I have phone controlled LED bulbs and i have specific lighting for work ), and smells (I light certain candles when Im taking time to relax.
11:48 Yes, if you're stuck in the same physical location, find ways to change the environment in that location to shift your mental space. Different logins, different backgrounds, different desk (if possible), different music, having a little mantra to say as you shift gears can help too: "Work shut down, artist engage", and pairing that with some kind of physical movement has also been said to help.
For doing 2 different things in the same space and cutting association between the 2, color changing lights,
Move one accent or decorative item from one side of your desk to the other, changing your profile like he said is also awesome, if you use any sort of utensil like a pencil or pen change them out,
Whenever I'm at work, I wear this headband, and now, every time I need motivation, I wear the headband that makes me go go go.
I highly suggest wearing an item that feels different from other items that you can wear when you're doing a specific task and it clicks your brain into doing it
Re: the same space for work and creativity - I also work in tech, and create on the side. What’s helped a ton is lighting. I have Phillips Hue bulbs but there are a lot of others out there now way less expensive. I set up light themes for different times of the day. 8:45 - 5pm, the lights auto-change to a bright cool light. 5pm, the whole house goes dark, and that’s my indicator to shut work down, log out of the work account, and sit still, taking a few deep breaths until 5:01pm when the lights come on again in an amber tone.
The visual cues have helped me separate work from play, kind of trick the brain into a different state.
Changing clothes can help too. I used to use alarms but I found I got really good at just turning them off.
I have a work logon, and a play one. Totally different themes on the computer, color profiles, programs pinned.
Hm. I do have a separate mouse and keyboard I use for play, that helps too when I have to switch how I’m typing and reposition my hand on the mouse.
I hope these help someone out there.
For reference, I work from home and have one desk as a workspace for both.
I dug it! Your life experience is SO different from mine, you have so much to describe that I'll just never have the opportunity to experience for myself. With our powers combined, we can benefit from MULTIPLE lifetimes of experience! Thanks for sharing what you have with the world.
I worked in apparel design for 10 years and I can definitely say that kind of design also helps you separate emotiinally from my creative work for the same reason
Why am I watching? Because you're relatable. And as an aussie it's somewhat rare to find someone on youtube who talks about the stuff you do in a way that gets the culture and way we think about things.
My daughter is turning two around the same time as yours! Parenting is the best and it's great seeing you continue your work through parenting.
I’d definitely to be happy to see some more of these casual style videos from you this year! I always appreciate hearing your perspective on things because as you say, no life is completely the same, and learning from other people fascinates me
Why watching this? Seriously? This is imho one of the most underrated and undervalued channels on YT. There is so much gold here in terms of wisdom. Right now I am sitting outside in my Helinox chair on a snowy hill in the forest, just finished eating my lunchdinner. It's 1meter of snow all over, sun, +2°C and fresh air in the forest. Just enjoying life and watching your videos, thats why, to enjoy life and learn. Keep up the good work
I love your advice and how honest you are. I just made a really big, difficult decision and it was like you said, no decision is perfect and I know that well. I think it’s so helpful to know that nothing is ever perfect but that most often, change is good. Mine was a should I stay or go decision and I went with go. It was just last night and I had made the decision which involved selling a house and accepting an offer. And I accepted it and barely slept from anxiety. But tonight I feel better and you helped me with that. I’m 53 so I’m way closer to the end of life span than you are and so the stakes are higher, time is ticking. So this is a big thank you to you.
For the question about trying to create different spaces in the same space: use lighting effects and change out the chair you sit in. Really anything sensory that can change will make the room feel different and cue your brain into thinking differently.
I don't have an addiction to hard drugs, but I do struggle with being addicted to not doing anything and procrastinating. I know it's just years of training and learned helplessness, but I do think that the addiction suggestions applies to this sort of stuff too!
I am a visual artist and writer by night and work for the government by day. My WFH space is my studio. I do a physical set up and pack down twice a day or more: laptop, monitor, keyboard and mouse come out and I’m a government worker. Pack it all away and get out a table easel, paints, brushes and I am the real me. The changing over completely from one set up to the other is by necessity but I think it helps me adjust.
You can have it all, but not all at the same time. That advice helped me a lot when I was a new mom.
as a kiwi I sincerely thought you were Australian, I am so sorry! New subscriber though and you've quickly become one of my favourite content creators. Thanks for all the ideas! I started this year with four new journals thanks to you. One is for gratitude thoughts towards my partner, one is for general gratitude towards life, one is for being kind to myself and reframing things to be more empathetic. The fourth one is just there for the possibilities!
I’ve been in a rough place lately - creatively, emotionally, financially, etc. Was doomscrolling and then I remembered this channel exists and came back here for some advice and action steps. Thank you for being realistic about growth and open about your past struggles. Makes me feel like maybe I can get through it too. Your art and life is such a gift.
I live in a very small space, and have it set up to appeal to my own sensibilities. I had to bring some very bulky sewing-work home and needed to work on it without feeling like my home had been completely taken hostage by it. I took a fitted sheet and put it over the circular rug that feels like “home” to me, and then I put the work project on top of it. When I was done with the work for the evening, I wrapped it in the sheet. It was still very obviously there, but at least it felt “contained” when I wasn’t actively working on it. I did this so that I wouldn’t feel like I had given my whole home over to the project, and so I could create a “barrier” between my home and the work I had brought into it. It wasn’t perfect (mostly just a psychological sleight-of-hand), but it did feel like an important declaration of my home’s independence from my work. I like what Cam said about maybe having a different login for the computer to differentiate the different uses of it, too, as well as dressing differently so that one’s “work persona” is different from one’s sense of who they are outside of the context of work.
I want to comment about changing your environment for different types of work at home. When I switch (switched past tense because I’m retired now) from client work to personal work, I change what I’m listening to, I wear different clothing, everything you suggested. But one thing that WFH people don’t have is a *commute,* the transition that happens in your mind as you travel from your home to your work place. If you can ritualize the commute, a symbolic transition from one type of work to another, then by the time you sit down to do the work, you’ve shifted your headspace as well. Example, I used to take my cup of coffee and walk out the front door, wander the garden for a few minutes, then walk back in as a worker. Sounds silly, but in just a few minutes I was able to “commute” to work.
12:20 Something that's working for me is using candles. My gf give me some for Christmas and I don't really have a good sense of smell (It's not because of the pandemic, I was born like this), I have no idea what they smell like, I know they're white and according to her the candles smell like vanilla. What I do is that when I have to work I light one up and have it on the side, the little flame works like a separation for me, when I work on personal projects I work without candle.
In my specific case (No sense of smell) I think is more the fact that I have it in a specific spot that doesn't interrupt my work but that I can perceive the fire flickering on my periferal vision that helps me get in the mood of "I'm working", but if your nose works better than mine probably the specific smell of the candle could also help.
Great video! Great answers. :) I have an answer to the question of 'which thing do I pick to do?' Like you said, pick the one you think is the 'best' option, then flip a coin. Heads is 'go ahead with that thing'. Tails is 'choose something else'. Flip the coin, see where it lands *and pay very close attention to how you feel about the result*. That will tell you whether it's truly the right thing or not.
I really love spontaneous stuff. Went through the city yesterday evening to cut up some big christmas trees. Now I have 10 rustic hangers.
Well after I remove the rest of the twigs.
And I was physically active for over an hour doing that. Win-win
Thanks mate for picking my question although it was long and complicated (the adhd + depression thing). I will try your advice! Thanks a lot! xx
Showing on real time that you can access information you're struggling to remember or pronounce is great. I wish I could see your daughter on her second birthday.
Man, you're just so real. Congrats on 1M, well deserved 👏
For the WFH thing and a creative spot, have things that are visible in the different modes. Different lighting works for me, as well as only wearing my headphones when I'm working.
Another great video! My eldest daughter just had her first child, so I'm not only still experiencing the wonder of seeing her grow and flourish (the wonder never stops), but I also get to share with her the joy of watching her child grow. Kids are the best.
YES to an updated version of "The Wall" video! Love your work, thank you!
Your brain (and, of course, the fact that you share parts of it online) helps my brain, so thank you for that.
Just to say, thank you. I feel like even when I don't take action... your words are percolating through my mind and building me up for future changes and adjustments and understandings.
For the work/non-work stuff, go for a walk if you can. Working from home is hard. Taking some time to say 'work is done' and doing a mini commute, even if it's just around the block. Then you get back and you're no longer at work, you're home and doing the fun stuff.
22:24 funny enough, I flip a coin but tell myself "if my immediate reaction to the result is happiness or relief, stick to it. If the immediate reaction is remorse, simply pick the other one" and it helps me see how I really feel about my options.
19:22 I'm watching because you're great at communicating and you are just so real and transparent with your content. You talk about topics that impact in so many people's lives. Also I mostly struggle with aussie accent and you make me LISTEN which is great, I love listening to other accents even if it hurts my brain for a little while (I'm not a native speaker so that can feel hard at times). Hugs from Argentina man!
Advice for differentiating creative space from work/other shared space: #1 change smells, using things like candles, food, etc; physically cover items or parts of the room, not just those related to other tasks, but anything to just change the space; change lighting; change sounds. It can help to choose a setup with some symbolic or practical relationship to the activity, but the specifics don't actually matter much. The most important thing is you have to do these things Every Time. Your brain has to learn the association and you have to stick to those cues or it will fade.
As someone whose work space and creative space are also the same, something that works really well for me is lighting! Set up some smart lights so that it’s noticeable throughout your room, make a colourful setting that suits your creative vibe, and set an automatic timer for whenever you’re finished work. By using that visual cue as the first step, I find it’s easier to switch computers and just get started. Appreciate the video and congrats on 1 million subscribers! 🎉
CONGRATS ON 1 MIL! 🎉❤
The advice about quitting addictions "considering tonight and tomorrow as seperate realities, there is only today and right now" - I love as one of the most.
I'm currently using to get back into running. I love once I'm doing it, it's great for my mental health and i used to do it a lot instinctively when i was younger, i would just go on a run when feeling overwhelmed, not trained or whatever. After having had a knee injury for some time, a weird knot in my calve muscle and my lower back bruised, i can finally say I'm physically healthy enough to pick it up for the long term.
However: I draaaag going on a run.
So i mentally prepare myself the night before and then when i wake up it has to be the first thing i have to do: drink some water, dress up, and go. I start to talk myself out of it, and then i tell myself: no, you made this promise last night, and right now is all that you've got. If you don't do i now, you'll probably don't do it next week, cause it is one reality. And then i decide i want more for future me (one of my recent lifegoals has become to get old fit and flexible, seeing so many older physically stuck/ill people around me) and then i go. After 1k, i start to love it. By the end of the year i wanna run 10k do-able. Meaning in june i have to hit 5-7k. I just finished my first 4.22k since years. :)
This "seperate reality" theory is super interesting. Hope one day you do a full vid about it!
Thank you bro!! I loved the reminder on the simple quote about a calm sea doesn’t make a skilled sailor but pretty sure that what the other video you make I saw but still
I’m sorry for your friend loss. I had a friend loss this year too and it destroyed (and still is destroying) me. I’m so glad you at least still have the tattoo to remind you of him, how wonderful it is to have a tattoo that you hated turn into a tattoo that you will cherish forever ❤️
Bro 1 MILL !!! I've been here sub 100k. I'm so proud of you man. Now to make you proud of me. So glad to have you in my life. I've been using your journaling techniques for 2 years now and they really made a huge difference in my life.
That bit about you have regrets no matter what you choose released me from guilt quite a bit. I occasionally regret choices that have quite wonderful outcomes then feel guilt for that emotion even if its fleeting and now i realise i would feel that no matter what choice i made.
i don’t normally comment on youtube videos BUT i really really do wanna see an updated video on the wall, you touched on it briefly in a recent video & i was SO intrigued!!!
ps. i think you’re so wonderful, keep going bruv!! much love
We're craving for more videos! Every time I see you I am seeing a guide, a friend who has got something from life to share with me and who has found some sort of equilibrium within himself, which few people have, and fewer share. I also love your attitude upon good and bad things and life in general idk man you help me. Also love the editing! You're inspiring!
Your advice for addiction was really beautiful. Thank you for being so open and sharing your experiences.
on separating day job and personal creative workspaces: I have a room large enough to have two desks in it; one is the day job desk, the other is the creative desk. But if I didn't have that much space, I would sit at a different angle for each head space - use different ends of the desk for each. The main goal is to get the day job stuff out of my eyeline while trying to get into personal flow.
Love your enthusiasm, randomness and casual approach to life. I’m sure it has taken time to reach the point of not caring about shit you can’t control. It doesn’t matter where you live in the world, if you can still do your craft, be a great dad, swim, run, be merry with family thats all that really matters. Keep up the good work.
Voting for the wall! I'd love to see a video about that. I've been using it for 2 years (in my journal for privacy) and it's helped me accomplish so much!
please do an updated wall video!!!!! im moving into my basement and this is something i definitely need my own version of. itd be SO unbelievably helpful to see how your process has adapted
As for the indecision question:
I would write down all options on separate pieces of paper. And then just draw one of them... If you feel good with that option you drew, that is what to do next. If not or if you feel bummed because it should have been another option, then the latter should be your focus.
I really related to the question about picking a career in a changing world. I spent so much time changing my mind, being very uncertain, and being unwilling to make any decisions at all. To be fair, I was also dealing with A LOT of mental health problems, so that didn't help. I'm still uncertain, but now I've been able to actually think it over enough to be able to rationally say "Hey, I learned from past jobs that I don't like to be bored, sitting at a computer all day, not have any structure to my days, or uncertainty as to what I'm supposed to be doing at work. But I DO like being physically active at work, Visible and clear markers of progress (like being able to see the progress I've made and then knowing whether I'm behind or not), working with other people, doing something that helps others even in small ways, and having a more flexible schedule than a strict 9-5." And then being able accept that that's where I'm at at this point (I come from a family that's very white-collar, college degree/9-5 centered and it's been hard to accept that I'm not that) and also recognize that I won't be stuck in one path forever - but I do have to do something. Right now I'm working as a job coach and looking to go to train as an ER Tech. Loose long term plan is to build on top of the er tech stuff and get further education in the medical field.
I would love an Updated Video on THE WALL please. In your last video when you talked about Inertia you mentioned it, and I'm working on a book, a channel, and my health (and a 9-5).. it's a lot and I feel an updated Wall would help me (especially with AI around now) to visually organize better. Congrats on the 1M!!!!
Congrats on the 1M!! 🙂
I always appreciate your honesty and insights.
My son was due in May 2 years ago as well, but he arrived 7 weeks early so we're just about to celebrate his second birthday very soon.
Looking forward to seeing more of your journey.
Cheers!
Congratulations on garnering 1M subscribers! You've worked very hard and earned every one. Looking forward to celebrating 2M! ~ Lisa
I would love to see THE WALL 2.0!
I love these kinds of videos for when I'm like folding my laundry so I can have something on that improves my life and gives me some juicy nuggets of insight to chew on but that that I don't have to stop everything and focus intently on it.
I LOVE YOUR BOOK!! I found you when a video about resetting your life mid-year showed up in my feed, and I have been happily traipsing through your content since. :)
You always take my mind down paths I recognize; I’ve been on them before-but just like walking that same path with someone for whom the path is new-I realize I’m seeing everything differently by the end. Thank you for the new neural pathways. My brain and my future appreciates it!
CONGRATS ON 1 MILLION
I want to be like you when I grow up
I've thankfully never been addicted to substances but I was grocery shopping an hour ago and I was considering going for that Snickers bar at the counter and used that "not today" mantra instead. Now I'm stood here, snickerless but slightly proud.
Hahaha, yup! Mine was a Charleston Chew, now I’m home eating an apple 🤣🤦♀️
i used to go swimming with my dad every sunday!! it's kind of random but i just loved hearing you say that you love swimming with your daughter, it made me remember how much i cherish those memories, as i bet she will too!! (and i am also a may baby heehee)
also i love your videos because you bring everything as a friend, and you always acknowledge how things can be really hard. makes one at least want to give it a try instead of thinking "i can't do that"
anyway congrats on 1M!! i'm one of many who came from the typeface video :p
Would love to see an updated video about the Wall!
And I'm not using the word love randomly, I want to love myself, the stuff I do and my life more, and this seems like it could be a cool part of it
I struggle with the work/creative/fun in same space thing too (and doesn't help that I have a creative job as well!) Here are some things that I find help a bit:
Doing a bit of a hard-reset (leaving the space, doing something else, then coming back to use it for a different purpose) can help. I have done different computer profiles in the past, but I have found that it doesn't make a huge difference to me personally.
Having some dedicated fun things that take place in the same space, so that I don't always associate it with work (eg, I use my same computer for work as I do for playing DnD and other TTRPGs with friends online).
Resetting the space between the different use cases, so that I'm not surrounded by work reminders when I'm doing the fun thing... that one is, uh, easier said than done sometimes though.
I also have a 'wall of obsession' behind my desk that I look at every time I need that little mental pick-me-up or happiness-boost. It's covered with things that give me inspiration, remind me why life is awesome, and why I work: to make the world a mildly better place for my having been here AND to enable me to live outside of work. So there's stuff like... cool wallpaper swatches, postcards from past trips, ticket stubs, and other physical objects that remind me of awesome memories and/or achievements that say 'hey, it's not all about work, even if I'm in a space where that's what I do sometimes'. It literally gives me a mood boost every time I enter the room, whether I'm there for work or something else.
Not sure if that helps, but there are a few things! 😀
Watching you talk makes me happy, man!
Makes me feel human, makes me see what a real human being sounds like. It’s kinda rare these days. Someone who’s not trying to be or get anything, just being.
You inspire me to be simpler, happier, wiser. Calmer and paying more attention to the world. You’re a beautiful soul and that’s just visible! It’s undeniable. And what makes this true is that you’re not afraid to show that you’re imperfect. I wish your family all the happiness in the world, and all the peace in your heart ❤
Cam, i feel so much love for you as a human being that i will almost certainly never meet in person. You are a wonderfully open, thoughtful and fascinating person, with so much to share with the world. I truly appreciate every video you upload. If you ever wonder why people are watching your videos, it's because it's you Cam.
I always enjoy your content; well researched, quirky and always candidly honest. I’d be interested in a video about how you quit or limited your social media consumption. I’m 60 years old so did not grow up with smart phones and the internet and even so, I’m addicted to it. I find myself mindlessly looking at random whatever, even circling back to the same platforms over and over, expecting something new. It leaves me feeling jittery and empty. Anyway, with your curiosity research skills and ability to tell a great story, I’d be curious to hear more about your take on this. Like how can crap like celebrity news, or people doing goofy, creative or cute stuff have such a hold on me? Oh, and congrats on your 1M subscribers. I hope you are carving our the balance you need.
You seem like such a good dad! Congrats on all the life wins 💗