In today’s fast-paced world, musicians and parents alike face unique challenges that can make achieving a work-life balance feel overwhelming. However, some simple yet effective life hacks can significantly enhance productivity and bring joy back into daily routines. Below are insightful tips from music industry expert Bobby Owsinski alongside creative parenting tricks from online communities.
4 Life Hacks For Musicians
1. No Phone Calls or Texts While Eating
Owsinski emphasizes that meal times are crucial for mental well-being and productivity. He states, ‘Meal time is my time and no one else’s. There’s almost nothing in life that can’t wait 20 or 30 minutes for a reply.’ By turning off notifications during meals, musicians can enjoy their food and recharge mentally.
2. Go Out for Lunch Every Day
To prevent the work-from-home blues, Owsinski insists that stepping outside for lunch is essential. ‘I go out to lunch every single day just to break out of studio focus and clear my mind.’ He encourages scheduling lunches with others to foster connections.
3. Take Regular Vacations
According to Owsinski, taking a short vacation every quarter can boost productivity. ‘Regularly scheduled getaways will definitely help you improve your focus,’ he notes, emphasizing the importance of having fun along with keeping in touch with work as necessary.
4. Automatic Lights Out
Setting clear boundaries for work hours is vital. Owsinski has automated his studio lights to turn off at 8 PM as a signal to end the workday. ‘When they go dark it’s a clear sign that it’s time for me to stop for the day,’ he says.
Top Creative Parenting Hacks
On the parenting front, many parents have shared innovative hacks that foster creativity and fun. For instance, a parenting blogger reported using scavenger hunts during hikes to keep children engaged and excited. According to them, ‘My wife slowed to a stop near the end of the trail and waited to be “caught”. Result? The kids hiked farther and faster than normal.’
Another creative tip involves using colorful labels to make generic snacks more appealing to picky eaters. One parent reported successfully convincing their child that a generic cheese snack tasted better by simply placing a sticker on it, stating, ‘See, mommy? I told you the Paw Patrol cheese tastes better.’
Creativity in parenting extends beyond meal times. Experts encourage parents to provide opportunities for imaginative play while removing screens from the equation. Child psychiatrist Megan Maher suggests, ‘Parents want to engage their kids, and being fully present tells them that the time and activity are meaningful.’
Packing snacks in sectioned containers for trips or creating DIY art projects from everyday items are just a few ways families can encourage creativity while managing everyday challenges.
Both musicians and parents can greatly benefit from employing these life hacks. As Owsinski concludes, ‘These life hacks may not be for everyone, but they’ve definitely helped me be more productive and enjoy life more.’ Through thoughtful strategies, achieving balance in busy lives seems more attainable than ever.
